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At Lake Country Builders, we believe that every homeowner deserves a space for comfortably aging in place without compromising on style or functionality. Our project, The Johnson Home, was completed in the summer of 2021 in Minnetonka, MN, is a testament to our commitment to creating homes that adapt to our clients’ evolving needs.

Client’s Desires and Project Scope

As a long-time repeat client, we were honored to undertake the Johnson Home project and assist our clients as they age in place. Their main desire was to enhance accessibility within their home to keep their current quality of life. Specifically, they sought to install a lift elevator to enable easy access from the garage, ensuring seamless mobility between floors for daily living.

Features Designed for Aging in Place

In response to our client’s needs, we implemented various features to promote safety, accessibility, and comfort for independent living:

• Strategically Placed Grab Bars: In the bathroom, we strategically installed grab bars to enhance safety without compromising aesthetics, providing stability and support where needed.
• Integrated Elevator: To ensure seamless accessibility in living arrangements, we integrated a lift elevator, allowing easy movement between floors and eliminating the need for stairs.

• Cabinetry Modifications: Recognizing the importance of user-friendly spaces, we modified cabinetry to offer practical storage solutions at accessible heights, ensuring convenience for daily activities even if limited mobility becomes a factor.

• Sturdy Hand Railings: Outside the home, we installed sturdy hand railings to provide stability and support for navigating steps or uneven terrain, further enhancing safety.

Key Considerations for Aging in Place Remodeling

When remodeling or building a home with aging in place in mind, it’s essential to consider several key factors:

• Accessibility: Design spaces with wide doorways, hallways, and zero-threshold entrances to accommodate mobility aids and ensure easy access throughout the home at all levels of care.
• Bathroom Modifications: Incorporate features like grab bars, walk-in showers, and elevated toilets to enhance bathroom safety and accessibility of daily routines.
• Kitchen Design: The careful planning of accessible layouts with lower countertops, pull-out shelves, and easy-to-reach storage facilitates independent living and creates an excellent housing option as we age. 
• Flooring and Lighting: Choose slip-resistant flooring materials and ensure ample lighting, particularly in high-traffic areas, to prevent accidents and enhance visibility for a comfortable environment.
• Smart Home Technology: Integrate smart home features for added convenience in daily life and security. Voice-activated controls and remote monitoring systems can help in case of any health events that need medical attention.
• Bedroom Accessibility: Position the bedroom on the main floor if possible, and include proper lighting and accessible storage for comfort and convenience, allowing the current home to be a viable option for as long as possible.

Create Your Dream Home

At Lake Country Builders, we’re committed to creating homes that not only reflect our client’s lifestyles and preferences but also anticipate their future needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you create your dream home, designed to support you through every stage of life.