Aging-in-Place/Universal Design Renovations

BUILD IT NOW… LOVE IT FOREVER

No one wants to think about getting old. We humans tend to put off preparing for what’s to come. But some simple changes to the layout and floor plans of our homes can make all the difference when challenges arise later in life. Schafer Brothers Remodeling is an Aging-in-Place specialist and well-versed in planning ahead with subtle design elements that can make staying in the home you love a reality.

Universal design concepts involve the choices you make in bathtub and flooring surfaces, thresholds between rooms, lighting choices, doorknobs, even light switches. Other simple design choices that may pay off later is in the layout of hallways and rooms. Allowing extra width in halls and doorways, and keeping floor plans open makes for friendlier living spaces, no matter what age you are. Planning for aging-in-place by relying on Universal Design concepts is standard for Schafer Brothers Remodeling.

When the time comes for a complete Aging-in-Place Remodel, Schafer Brothers Remodeling will put their expertise for work for you. We can create a no-step entry, develop a floor plan for one-story living with rooms for cooking and eating, bathing and sleeping, all located on one barrier-free level. The doorways will be 32 – 36 inches wide, and halls 36 – 42 inches wide, to let wheelchairs pass through. Floors and bathtubs will have non-slip surfaces, steps will have handrails and bathrooms grab bars. Good lighting will be used throughout. Lever style door handles and rocker style light switches will be employed to aid people with poor hand strength. These features, which make staying in your own home possible, also make the home more comfortable for all the inhabitants, regardless of age.

Aging-in-Place Remodeling is a specialty of Schafer Brothers Remodeling. Let us do the thinking ahead for you when we plan your home remodeling project.

Possible Universal Design projects include:

• No step entries
• One floor barrier-free living area
• Wide hallways and doorways
• Non-slip flooring
• Enhanced lighting
• Non-slip & walk-in bathtubs
• Barrier-free showers with seating
• Grab bars
• Easy to use door levers and rocker light switches