Universal or "accessible" design has become very popular over the last 5 to 10 years, especially for New Homes in an area like Cape Cod, where most of the customers are looking for a design that will accommodate all of their needs to age in place.  One of the best products we have seen recently to meet this universal design program are so-called "linear drains" for showers which basically provide an easy means of creating a handicapped accessible shower space without the traditional shower curb for water. 

If you are thinking about designing, remodeling, or building your new home on Cape Cod, please CONTACT US today to see how we can incorporate Universal Design into your next project!

Here are some examples from Quick Drain, or visit their website for more information: QUICKDRAINUSA.COM

Universal design is a popular concept in home planning.  It was known over the years as "aging in place" or "accessible" design.  The Universal Design program takes a more broad approach to dealing with issues associated with an aging population. Considerations range from hallway and door widths, to kitchen layouts and appliance selections. The bottom line is this: with some smart planning for your new home, or renovation project, you can have a space that will be liveable for every stage of your life.  Here is an article from housingzone.com that discusses the new trends and ideas in universal design: Universal Design

If you want to find out how Universal Design ideas might work in your new home contact us by clicking below:

   With an aging population, and tough economic times, many families are opting to bring multiple generations under one roof. Many of the towns on Cape Cod allow in-law apartments through a special permit, and the process is fairly simple.  An in-law apartment also enhances the value of the home over the long term.  If you are thinking of investing in an In-Law apartment for your home, or building a New Custom Home with an apartment. Contact us for a free consultation. 

Here is an article from MSN Money that talks a little about the process: http://realestate.msn.com/how-to-add-a-mother-in-law-apartment

   The Master Bathroom is one of the most important spaces in a New Home or Remodeling Project.  The emotional and aesthetic appeal of the space must balance with the functionality and utility of the various fixtures. A well designed Master Bath can be a showpiece and still meet all of the needs of the homeowner. There is a strong trend towards larger spaces with accessibility features such as curbless tubs and roll in showers that can meet the needs of a homeowner for years to come. 

Here are some great designs we found from builderonline.com: Ultimate Bathrooms

    We found an interesting solution to the aging in place concept.  As a Home Builder on Cape Cod, we are often asked about in-law or accessory apartments.  This can be an expensive proposition, when considering all of the code and permitting requirements for a legal apartment.  As and alternative, a company called MedCottage has come up with a 284sf self contained structure that can be moved on to your lot and contains all of the amenities needed for your aging parent.  There is a lot of data that touts the benefits of having an elderly loved one cared for by family members. This MEDCottage makes that process very quick and easy, and is a good alternative to the complications of a renovation or remodeling project to complete an in-law apartment.  

Here is the full article from msnbc.com: http://www.cnbc.com/id/47251900/?page=2

    Things have changed for home builders over the last several years.  Trends are moving away from the large trophy type homes, and more towards designs that offer practical livability, efficient design, and style where it counts.   Builder magazine recently produced an article that highlights the fact that modern lifestyles have changed much more quickly than home designs.  One of the biggest demands now is for a design that supports multi-generational living.  As a  custom home builder and home designer, REEF often responds to needs such as these with creative, and innovative solutions for space and functionality. 

Here is the full article from builderonline.com

http://www.builderonline.com/design/the-makings-of-the-next-great-new-home-design.aspx

   The real estate market is still at an all time low.  Many homes in desireable areas are available at a much lower price than ever before.  As a custom home builder, REEF is often brought in to assess existing properties for their future renovation or remodeling potential. With home prices so low,  purchasing  an existing him and investing in a major renovation might begin to make sense.  The most important item for many of our customers is the ability to design a home for an "aging in place" lifestyle.   This is not a new concept, but in the past, it was almost cost-prohibitive to invest in a major project to meet the "aging in place" concept.    Below is an article from in-lawsuite.com that discusses the possibilities, and provides some tips for smart investments in an existing home. 

Click here to read te article: Benefits of renovation for aging-in-place

If you would like to know more about an aging in place renovation, click below to contact one of our experts:

    The consept of universal design is a relatively new term in the custom home business.  It bridges the gap between standard design and fully handicapped accessable design.  The focus of this design concept is to provide homes that provide functional, and safe spaces across a wide range of needs. The idea that a home could have universal appeal for a young family or a retiring couple is unique in custom home building. Manufacturers have responded with many innovative products that make it easier to achieve this broad design appeal. Here is an article from Housingzone.com describing a few of the key products that builders are using in new home and renovation projects.

Universal Design - Kitchens and Baths

If you would like to examine these concepts further for your next new home or remodeling project click below to ask one of our experts.

   The Metlife Mature Market Institute recently conducted a study on trends for homeowners in the 55+ age category. The results were surprising, and indicative of an increasingly independent lifestyle for senior homeowners.  This study discusses the desire for many to age-in-place at their current home. We have seen numerous requests for smart aging renovations in our client base over the last several years.  Small things like wider hallways and doors, bathroooms that could accommodate wheelchair access are often requested by our clients. 

  These ideas are easy to accommodate as part of a new home or renovation project.  However, attempting to make these livability upgrades quickly after a serious illnes or accident can be challenging and expensive.  You can download the metlife report here: 55+ Buyer Trends Study

If you have questions about making your home more comfortable as you approach retirement click below to schedule a free consultation: