Renovating Your Home in Retirement: From Outdated to Outstanding
Have you recently retired? Or perhaps you have recently become an ‘empty nester’?
You now have more free time to enjoy life, kick back, relax and live life to the fullest.
If you have retired or are transitioning to retirement, you will be spending more time at home than ever before. It makes perfect sense to invest in your home to make it more comfortable, modern and set up just how you like it. It is also wise to make changes that can be adaptable for coming years and allow for aging in place.
Consider these types of projects that are commonly requested by retired couples:
New Kitchen with Modern Appliances
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and a modern, functional kitchen can make a significant difference in your daily life. Imagine updating your kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances, custom cabinetry and stylish finishes that make it a pleasure to cook and entertain in.
Complete Bathroom Renovation with Accessibility in Mind
Renovating your bathroom with a view to future accessibility needs can make life easier and safer long before you need the additional support. Features such doorless showers and non-slip flooring can make your bathroom safer and more comfortable.
Removing and Filling in Swimming Pools that are No Longer Used
If your swimming pool is no longer in use, it can become a liability and an eyesore. There is little point in spending time and money in maintaining a pool that is not being used. Consider removing and filling in your swimming pool to create a more functional and low-maintenance outdoor space.
Modifying the Floor Plan to Remove Internal Steps
Modifying the floor plan to remove internal steps, eliminates future trip hazards and can improve mobility and accessibility. With many of us going thru knee and hip replacements in our older years, a one-level floorplan without any internal steps can make life a lot easier.
Designing for Accessibility
Other accessibility option can include expanding doorways, creating open-concept spaces and adding ramps or lifts.
Reconfiguring the Entrance or a Side Entry that Can be Accessed Without the Need to Go Up Steps
Many entrances to homes have a couple of steps. Whether it be a step up to a verandah or porch, or just steps to the front door, these can be problematic if you need to use a wheelchair or other walking aid. Solutions can include reconfiguring the entrance of the home, adding a ramp or creating a side entrance to the home that can be accessed without the need to go up steps. This can improve accessibility and convenience.
Improved Outdoors Areas with Features such as Vergolas to Control Sunlight
Outdoor living spaces can be an extension of your home, providing a place to relax, entertain and enjoy the fresh air. Improving your outdoor areas with features such as vergolas to control sunlight, comfortable seating and landscaping that requires minimal maintenance are popular options.
Installation of a Lift in Second Storey Homes
If you have a two-storey home, installing a lift can make it easier and safer to go up and downstairs. They can be particularly useful for sending things upstairs/downstairs instead of carrying objects such as washing baskets upstairs.
A lift will allow you to access all parts of the home instead of being confined to the ground floor only.
In Summary
Renovating your home in retirement can be an exciting and rewarding experience that improves your quality of life and enhances your comfort and style. Whether you are updating your kitchen, renovating your bathroom, or adding a lift, investing in your home can help you age in place and enjoy your retirement to the fullest.
Our Top-to-Toe Renovation package is a great place to start to find out what is included for a complete home renovation.