When designing a custom home, it’s easy to focus on the present—your current lifestyle, family needs, and design preferences. But truly smart home design considers not just how you’ll live today, but how your needs may change over the next 10, 20, or even 30 years.
Enter: Aging in Place and Universal Design—two powerful concepts that allow you to stay in your home comfortably, safely, and independently, no matter your age or ability.
What Is Aging in Place?
Aging in place means designing your home so you can live in it safely and comfortably for as long as possible, without needing to move due to physical limitations.
It’s about preserving independence and avoiding costly renovations or relocations later in life.
What Is Universal Design?
Universal design goes one step further: it’s about creating a home that works for everyone, regardless of age, size, or ability—from toddlers to seniors, guests to residents with disabilities.
It’s not about making a house look clinical—it’s about making it intuitive, accessible, and beautiful for all.
Why It Matters in Custom Homes
When you’re building from scratch, you have the perfect opportunity to integrate these features—seamlessly and affordably. Making changes down the road is usually far more disruptive and expensive.
Plus, universal design adds value: a home that works for everyone is more appealing to future buyers, especially in multigenerational or aging demographics.
Key Features of an Aging-in-Place & Universally Designed Home
1. No-Step Entry
Why: Stairs at the front door can be a dealbreaker later in life.
Solution:
- A zero-threshold entry (or ramp that’s seamlessly integrated)
- Flush transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces
2. Wider Hallways and Doorways
Why: Wheelchairs and walkers need more clearance.
Solution:
- 36” doorways and 42”+ hallways
- Pocket or barn doors for easier access
3. Main-Level Living
Why: Stairs become more difficult with age or injury.
Solution:
- Include a primary bedroom, bathroom, laundry, kitchen, and living area on the ground floor.
- Consider a second master suite upstairs for guests or future caregivers.
4. Curbless Showers & Grab Bar Blocking
Why: Stepping over a tub or ledge is a fall risk.
Solution:
- Curbless (walk-in) showers with bench seating
- Reinforced walls for future grab bar installation—even if you don’t need them yet
5. Lever-Style Handles & Touch Faucets
Why: Easier for arthritic hands or people with limited grip.
Solution:
- Lever door handles instead of knobs
- Motion-sensor or single-lever faucets in kitchens and baths
6. Better Lighting & Rocker Switches
Why: Visibility and ease of use matter more with age.
Solution:
- Motion-activated lights in hallways, bathrooms, and closets
- Rocker light switches placed lower on the wall for wheelchair users
- Layered lighting (ambient + task + accent) for every room
7. Smart Home Integration
Why: Tech can simplify everything from security to health monitoring.
Solution:
- Voice-controlled lights, locks, and thermostats
- Video doorbells with smartphone alerts
- Smart appliances and fall-detection systems for aging residents
8. Open Floor Plans with Minimal Obstacles
Why: Navigating tight corners or furniture can become hazardous.
Solution:
- Plan open sightlines and minimal thresholds between rooms
- Ensure furniture layouts allow for easy wheelchair or walker movement
9. Adjustable Countertops & Pull-Out Storage
Why: Standard counter and cabinet heights don’t work for everyone.
Solution:
- Varied countertop heights in kitchens and bathrooms
- Pull-out shelves and drawers instead of deep cabinets
10. Flexible Spaces for Changing Needs
Why: Your lifestyle, health, or family structure may evolve.
Solution:
- Design a home office that could become a guest room or caregiver suite
- Include unfinished areas (like a basement) that can be converted later
Bonus: Outdoor Spaces Matter Too
Accessible patios, raised garden beds, wide pathways, and shade structures make it easier to enjoy nature safely as you age.
What Aging-in-Place Design Is Not
- It’s not clinical or sterile.
- It’s not only for elderly or disabled people.
- It’s not a downgrade.
It’s empowering, future-forward, and beautiful—when done right, you won’t even notice the design until you need it.
Final Thought
A truly custom home should grow with you. By integrating aging-in-place and universal design principles now, you’re investing in long-term comfort, safety, and flexibility—without sacrificing style.
Because the best homes don’t just look good.
They work better, for longer.