Understanding Renovations for Changing Needs

For many homeowners, there comes a time when they ask themselves whether their home is ready and able to meet their changing needs as they age. Recently, I've worked with clients who were contemplating this very issue.

Not ready to leave behind a family home full of memories for the appeal of a retirement community, the owners decided to invest in thoughtful renovations that targeted the areas of their home that not only needed a fresh look but would be most affected by the aging process: the bathrooms.

Hall Bathroom Renovation

The client's hallway bathroom, while well maintained but needing an update, had some functionality issues that would need to be addressed if they were going to stay as they grew older:

• They had a deep alcove tub that was getting difficult to get in and out of

• There could be better fall protection in or around the tub

• They had a low toilet that was getting difficult to get on and off from

• The ceilings were textured, making them harder to keep clean

• The bathroom didn't have an exhaust fan to reduce moisture, mold and mildew

  
  

The desire for "almost" everything new begged the question of whether to fully demo the space or not. After careful consideration of options, we decided the added effort and expense of a full gut was not necessary, and we would focus on the beautifying and functionality of the space. The renovations would include:

• The installation of a new drywall ceiling over the existing versus a replacement, with a proper exhaust fan added for ventilation

• Replacement of their fiberglass tub with a sturdy non-slip and ergonomically designed acrylic tub that made it easier to get in and out

• Installation of new easy-to-clean acrylic alcove walls

• A regrouting of the existing floor tile for an updated look versus a full floor replacement

• The installation of stylish but strong safety bars in and beside the tub where the walls were newly reinforced

• The installation of a new comfort height toilet

• A new vanity, top, and faucet

• Fresh new paint and color throughout the space

  
  

Once the hall bathroom was completed, the homeowners were happy with the look and feel of their selections, which helped them have a much easier time in the planning and preparation phase of their next project, the master bath.

Master Bathroom Transformation

The master bathroom renovation, much like the hall bathroom, focused on creating a safe, accessible space without compromising style.

Upgrades included:

• The replacement of their outdated fiberglass shower stall with a spacious, non-skid base that could easily accommodate a shower chair

• The installation of high-quality acrylic walls that mimic the look of tile—achieving an

  upscale appearance without the cost and maintenance of traditional tile

• Reinforced shower walls to properly secure new grab bars, providing crucial stability and safety

• The installation of a new handheld shower on a slide bar, offering versatility and maneuverability

• The installation of a new shower door that gives the space a more elegant, updated look

  
  

As with the hall bathroom, additional improvements included:

• Installing new drywall over the aging textured ceiling and adding a vented exhaust fan to improve air quality

• Preserving the existing floor tile but refreshing its appearance by replacing the grout

• Adding a new chair height toilet with a bidet seat, a feature that enhances hygiene and independence

• Installing a slightly larger vanity for additional storage

• Updating lighting fixtures to improve visibility

• Completing the transformation with a fresh coat of paint

Learning Through Experience: Material Sourcing Strategy

An interesting aspect of these projects was the evolution in how our clients sourced materials. During the first bathroom renovation, they relied heavily on a single supplier who helped select and order most fixtures. While happy with their selections, this approach did lead to some challenges:

• Overspending on certain selections

• Communication breakdowns

• Project delays resulting from shipping delays

• A steady decline in customer service quality

For their second bathroom, the homeowners applied these lessons by:

• Using suppliers selectively for specific items

• Sourcing many items independently

• Taking more control over the selection process

This hybrid approach resulted in significant cost savings for the homeowner and fewer setbacks due to supply chain issues or communication problems.

At the end of the day, the homeowners were pleased with the selections and the work that was done. They were able to achieve the functionality they knew they would need in the years to come, while updating the look and increasing the value of their home as a whole.

Planning Your Own Renovation

If you're considering similar updates to your home, keep these tips in mind:

1. Think long-term: Consider not just your current needs but how they might change

2. Prioritize safety features: Non-slip surfaces, grab bars, and adequate lighting are essential

3. Balance aesthetics and function: Accessible design can be beautiful too

4. Be strategic about sourcing: Consider a hybrid approach to material selection

5. Work with experienced professionals: Choose contractors who understand accessibility needs

   
   
   
   

Aging in place doesn't mean sacrificing style or comfort. With thoughtful planning and strategic renovations, you can create a home that continues to meet your needs for years to come—all while enjoying the comfort of familiar surroundings.