Things to Consider When Designing Your Forever Home

Photo: Getty Images

When it comes to designing a new home, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. Especially if you truly want it to be a FOREVER home and not just a for now home.

How will your home function as your family grows? Will it still meet your needs when you’re older and your children have left? Does your home support long-term health and wellness? And how can you ensure the design won’t become dated?  All of these factors play a big role when it comes to designing a home that will work for you for years to come.

Your Home Should Work for You

It’s easy to get carried away with aesthetics and lose sight of the importance of function when designing a home. Beautiful countertops and fabulous flooring are of course important. But a layout that functions well and adapts with you as life changes, will have a greater impact on the longevity of your home.

Not to mention design elements that add comfort, safety and connection within your home, will influence your overall happiness in your day-to-day life.

Create A Home that Grows with You

As families grow, their needs will inevitably change. Be sure to consider future use when making design decisions now. Planning is KEY! Think about designing larger children’s rooms that can accommodate a queen-size bed. This will ensure you have space for adult children and their spouses when they come home to visit. Or, it can serve as an in-law suite for aging parents later down the road.

Would living on one floor make things easier? Consider creating a layout on the main floor that allows rooms to be easily converted into a bedroom or full bathroom. Think office to bedroom conversion, or mudroom to full bathroom design. This can make it a whole lot easier to get around when mobility needs change. Not to mention the benefits it could bring with unexpected life events, such as an injury or medical condition that affects agility.

If space is limited, consider stacking closets on all floors of the home. This gives you the option to convert closets into an elevator if needed in the future.

Good Health Starts at Home

We know that time spent in nature can reduce anxiety and improve mental and physical wellbeing. But today’s busy lifestyles don’t always give us the time outdoors that we need. Smart design changes such as larger windows or walls that open up to create indoor/outdoor living spaces can help provide that missing connection to nature. A sunroom or front porch are excellent options for enjoying the outdoors and may be something to consider when designing your home.

Everything from construction materials to hard finishes to textiles, can add pollutants to your interior space. Choosing natural, non-toxic materials and finishes can play a big role in creating a healthier home. These become especially important if you have respiratory sensitivities.

Aging in Place

The National Institute on Aging confirms that it’s important to plan ahead for aging in place. While it may take some extra planning or include additional costs, designing for the future is much easier than trying to make the necessary changes later. Features such as accessible kitchens and bathrooms, wider doorways and hallways, mobility device friendly flooring, and smart home technology can significantly increase your time in your home. These features can be integrated seamlessly and harmoniously to create a beautiful aesthetic.

Classic and Timeless Never Goes Out of Style

Timeless white kitchen design: ADM Interiors

Trendy design may look great right now, but in a few years, it can date your home. To get a home you’ll always love, opt for classic finishes that won’t give away their age. Consider timeless choices such as white tile and neutral wood stains that make a beautiful backdrop for almost any style. You can add colour and personality with textiles, lighting and décor that are easy to swap out when it’s time for a change.

With thoughtful planning and the right design, you can enjoy a beautiful home that’s comfortable, easy to live in and adapts with you through the years. Connect with me to discuss how wellness design can help you create your forever home.