UNIVERSAL DESIGN
As
we age, we all would love the opportunity to be able to stay in the
home we have worked so hard to have. Home is where we feel comfortable,
know our neighbors, and have a lifetime of memories. The thought of not
being able to stay where we belong can be very frightening. Living in
our homes
safely and independently are major concerns as we mature. Simple modifications
of the home may mean the difference between assisted living, living with
loved
ones or living comfortably in our homes, regardless of age or ability
level.
Universal
design and Aging-In-Place design principles are very important for
"Baby Boomers" as well, who picture staying in their home for
a long time. If
you are contemplating a project, such as a kitchen, bathroom, or an addition,
now is the time to design your project for the future. Remodeling can
be a
major investment. Its our goal to help you get it right the first
time!
In
recent years, great design ideas and products have come on the scene to
increase the maneuverability and basic functions of the home as years
go by.
We would be happy to visit with you in your home or at our showroom and
show you some of the modifications that can be done the keep your
home safe and comfortable.
It
is surprising at how simple some of the modifications can be. We will
take
into considerations things like faucet or hardware change out, lighting,
countertop performance, appliance selections etc. Major modifications
to
kitchens and bathrooms are also addressed, depending on individual
needs. We spend significant time with our clients during the design phase
to
make sure we are covering all the issues they may be facing in the years
to
come. It is a fun process as we explore the possibilities of design. And
the nice
thing is , the design and the products used can create a gorgeous and
functional space regardless of which room it is.
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A
kitchen with Universal Design features including:
- Raised
Dishwasher
- Waist
high microwave
- side-by-side
refrigerator
- multilevel
counters
- open
cabinet space under the sink for someone seated
- Excess
storage at all heights
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A
kitchen with Universal Design features including:
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Here
are just some of the design concepts that we take into consideration:
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- All
doorways should have a minimum of 32" of clearance
space which allows enough space for strollers, wheel
chairs, walkers, and arms full of groceries.
- Open
floor plan or at least 42" wide walkways and hallways.
- Lever
door handles rather than knobs on doors for ease of use.
- Cabinet
hardware and appliance handles that are easy to use.
- Choosing
appliances that allow for easy accessibility and operation.
- Plan
plumbing for bathtub to accommodate potential roll-in shower
change out.
- Sink
and shower fixture/controls with lever design to allow for
hands
full operation or operation with a closed fist.
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Below
are some of the questions from the NAHB Aging-In-Place Specialist
Brochure. To see the complete brochure, please click
here.
How
long do you plan on living in your current home?
If
you are like the majority of Americans over the age of 45, you want to
continue living in a familiar environment throughout your maturing years.
According to the AARP, older homeowners overwhelmingly prefer to age in
place, which means living in your home safely, independently and comfortably,
regardless of age or ability level.
How
Should You Modify Your Home To Make
It More Comfortable?
To
age in place you will probably need to modify your house as you mature
to increase access and maneuverability. These modifications range from
the
installation of bath and shower grab bars and adjustment of countertop
heights to the creation of multifunction first floor owners suites and
the
installation of private elevators.
Who
Can You Rely On To Modify Your Home
A
Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS) has been trained in:
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- The
unique needs of the older adult population
- Aging
in place home modifications
- common
remodeling projects
- solutions
to common barrier
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The Remodelers
council of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
in collaboration with the NAHB Research Center, NAHB 50+ Housing Council
and the AARP developed this program to address the growing number of
consumers that will soon require these modifications.
When
Considering Modifying Your Home, Ask Yourself:
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- Do
I want to add a bathroom and possibly a bedroom to the main
level?
- How
can I make my kitchen more functional?
- Am
I worried about preventing falls?
- How
much money should I budget for this project?
- Will
I need to get a home equity loan?
- Will
other members of my family benefit from modifications?
- Will
remodeling increase the energy efficiency of my home?
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Call
us today at 651-484-5363 to set up an appointment with Pat Gilewski,
our Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist. Or feel free to fill out the
appointment
request form and we will contact you right away!
 
Set Up An Appointment
Online!
Additional Resources:
NAHB
Certified Aging-In-Place brochure (PDF)
USA Today article on Aging-In-Place : "When
mom (or dad) moves in"
Nations Building News: "Aging
Boomers May Be Hard To Budge From Current Homes"
Article from NAHB: Evaluate
Your Home For Aging-In-Place
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House
of Dreams,LLC.
4001
N Rice Street
Shoreview, Minnesota 55126
Just
1 Mile North Of 694 On Rice
Click
Here for Google Map
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Showroom
Hours
Monday
& Thursday: 9:00 - 7
Tues, Wed, and Friday: 9:00 - 5
Saturday:
9 - 1
And
By Appointment
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