Subtle Aging-in-Place Design Ideas That Make Life Easier
Her mother’s visit completely changed her perspective.
She hadn’t given much thought to the step at the front door until she witnessed her mom’s arduous journey to get inside. The hallway suddenly felt too narrow for a walker. The bathroom threshold seemed to be a looming tripping hazard. In that moment, the home she loved felt less accommodating for someone in her life whom she cherished.
At LaFollette Custom Homes, we believe that stunning design and intelligent function are not mutually exclusive. You don’t have to compromise on building a home that will serve you or your family for decades to come. Our aging-in-place design ideas are subtle, intentional, and seamlessly blend style with practicality from the very beginning.
Easy Entry, Easy Living
Future-proofing your custom home begins with the first step through the door. Zero-step entryways at the front door and garage eliminate tripping hazards, and wider doorways and hallways (at least 36 inches) improve accessibility without being noticeable. You can also implement lever-style handles instead of knobs for easier grip, which are both stylish and practical.
Smarter Bathrooms for Every Stage of Life
Curbless walk-in showers with slip-resistant tile elevate your custom bathrooms to luxury, while also ensuring they can be used by everyone at every stage of life. Consider installing a comfort-height toilet and floating vanities for easy access, and envision how walls could potentially be used to hold grab bars in the future.
Accessible Main-Level Living
It’s good practice to place the master bedroom, primary bath, and laundry room on the main floor of your custom home for easy access. Add a flexible guest room or home office that can later serve as a suite for a caregiver or family member, and choose flooring with minimal transitions to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs.
Built-In Flexibility
The most minute details can make your custom home more accommodating for aging in place. Consider pocket doors or sliding barn doors in tight areas to maximize space and accessibility. Additionally, include touchless faucets, smart lighting, or voice-activated controls for added convenience.
Design That Doesn’t Look “Clinical”
Future-proof custom home design does not mean you have to sacrifice style. Slip-resistant tiles in your bathroom can make a stunning design statement, while lighting fixtures with layered options enhance safety and mood. Incorporate comfort features like wider stair treads, soft-close drawers, and quiet ventilation systems for aging gracefully and stylishly.
Your Dream Home for Decades to Come
Future-proofing your home doesn’t mean giving up the things you love; it means building a home that loves you back as your life evolves. Whether you’re planning for aging parents, thinking ahead for yourself, or wanting to create a more accessible space, these thoughtful design ideas can make all the difference in your home’s comfort and functionality.
At LaFollette Custom Homes, we specialize in crafting custom homes that are prepared for whatever the future holds, without compromising comfort or beauty along the way. Get started today!