Aging is an inevitable fact of life, and with that comes the need to shape our living spaces to accommodate our changing needs. The great place to start is the kitchen, and in this blog post, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of St. Louis Park shares a few accessible remodeling tips to help you design a kitchen space that meets your needs well into your later years while living in your forever home.
Embracing Universal Design
Universal design principles are at the heart of creating a kitchen that ages with dignity. This approach ensures that your kitchen is accessible, safe, and convenient for everyone, regardless of age or mobility. From the placement of appliances to the choice of cabinetry, every detail is considered to make daily tasks easier and safer.
Smart Cabinetry Solutions
Opt for cabinets that offer easy access and minimize strain. Features like pull-down shelves, drawer organizers, and Lazy Susans ensure everything you need is within reach without unnecessary bending or stretching. Consider installing cabinets at slightly lower heights and choosing hardware that is easy to grip, ensuring comfort and accessibility as you age.
Thoughtful Appliance Placement
The location of your kitchen appliances can significantly impact the functionality of your space as your mobility changes. Installing a wall oven at an accessible height eliminates the need to bend down, while a microwave drawer below counter height makes it safer and easier to handle hot food. DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen also emphasizes the importance of a shallow sink and touch-to-use faucets to reduce physical strain.
Flooring That Favors Safety
Choosing the right flooring can prevent slips and falls, making your kitchen a safer environment. Options like textured tile, vinyl, or wood offer both slip resistance and ease of maintenance. Our design team will guide you through selecting flooring that combines safety with style, ensuring your kitchen remains a welcoming space for years to come.
Lighting That Adapts
Adequate lighting is crucial in preventing accidents and reducing eye strain. Incorporating a mix of task, ambient, and accent lighting enhances visibility and functionality. DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen also recommends considering the placement of light switches and opting for smart lighting solutions that automatically adjust to the time of day, further improving access and safety. Consider these when you get a kitchen quote.
Countertops and Zones for Every Age
Adaptable countertop heights cater to various activities and mobility needs, ensuring your kitchen can be comfortably used while seated or standing. Creating distinct zones for cooking, cleaning, and prep can streamline tasks and reduce the need to move across the kitchen frequently. Our designs focus on ergonomic solutions that promote a healthy posture and ease of use at every age.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
Investing in a kitchen that ages as gracefully as you do means enjoying a space that adapts to your changing needs while maintaining the beauty and functionality you love. When searching “general contractor near me” on your favorite search engine, consider DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of St. Louis Park. Let us help you design a kitchen that will be a joy to use for many years to come. Get in touch with us by calling us at (952) 522-3008 or filling out our online form so we can start planning your ageless kitchen transformation. We serve homeowners in Bloomington, Deephaven, Edina, Excelsior, Golden Valley, Minneapolis, Plymouth, Saint Louis Park, Shorewood and Wayzata.
