Improving the safety of your living space should be a priority, especially if you’ve found your forever home. You don’t have to wait for you to get older before starting an accessible remodeling project. Tweaking certain aspects of your existing floor plan can make your living space easier and safer to navigate.
Read on to discover the key characteristics of an accessible floor plan.
Single-Story Living
Single-story homes are ideal for people with limited mobility since they eliminate the need for stairs. They can help reduce the risk of injuries in older adults. Regardless of your age, you will benefit from the convenience of having all rooms on one floor. If you have a home with multiple stories, you can either downsize or change the first level to meet your current and future needs.
Open Floor Plan
In an open floor plan, no walls separate common spaces like the kitchen, dining room and living room. This layout is advantageous for older adults and physically challenged individuals since it lets you move from one area to another effortlessly. It will allow more sunshine and fresh air to enter your living space. Another great thing about this floor plan is that it lets family members interact while doing different activities.
If you plan to implement an open floor plan in your home, be sure to work with experienced professionals. You might be wondering, “Where do I find a reliable general contractor near me?” It will help to ask your friends and family for recommendations. You can also look up local companies online. Before hiring a company, research, read customer reviews, verify credentials and look at portfolios.
Wider Doorways and Hallways
Doorways and hallways in many houses are not wide enough to fit wheelchairs and walkers. They should have a width of at least 32 inches to accommodate mobility assistance devices. If your doors and hallways are narrow, widen them during your next remodel.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
Need assistance in improving the safety and comfort of your living space? Let DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Southern Rhode Island handle your accessible remodeling needs. Feel free to contact us if you need a kitchen or bathroom quote. Call us at (401) 399-3917 or complete our online form to get in touch with our design experts. We work with homeowners in Hope Valley, Hopkinton, Jamestown, Kenyon, Newport, North Kingstown, Portsmouth, Shannock and nearby communities.