Lower Level Space Transformed into Owner’s Suite – N. Va
For many, the desire to stay in our home as we age is a reality. But often this means that universal design modifications are necessary to increase its comfort and function. Such was the case with the owners of this three-story home in Fairfax County. They loved their house and location, but were finding that as they grew older it was no longer meeting their mobility needs. They contacted Glickman Design Build for mobility solutions including a wheelchair accessible bathroom. Glickman also provided elevator options and installed n inclined wheelchair platform lift.
It was important to the homeowners to preserve the current layout as much as possible so as not to negatively impact resale value. The owners thought that the solution to their mobility issues was to add an elevator. But once we began looking into the design options, we realized that adding an elevator would not work well with the existing second floor and not fully accommodate all of the homeowner’s accessibility issues. But what was clear was that the mostly unfinished 2,000 square foot lower level actually provided the perfect place for a self-sufficient suite complete with accessible bath, kitchenette and bedroom. The homeowners were thrilled with this direction because it allowed them to leave the main floors of the home untouched while at the same time providing the ease of living they strongly desired.
The open floor plan includes a kitchenette and dining area complete with cherry Shaker-style cabinet facings, granite countertops and ceramic tile flooring. The family room area includes a large-scale plasma TV and a surround sound system and serves as the primary entertainment area. A private master suite with a spacious bedroom and luxury bath complete with a 5′ x 8′ curbless “roll-in” shower with a pull-down seat makes completing everyday tasks easier. The bathroom connects to a fully-equipped laundry room. There is also a large walk-in closet. A pair of new windows increases natural light exposure to the master bedroom.
To make it easier to identify visitors, the home’s front door has been equipped with a security camera and is linked to a laptop. The front door can also be locked and unlocked from the lower level suite.
The overall result is a functional and attractive suite that satisfies the immediate needs of the homeowners while increasing resale value.
Read the article PDF here: Potomac Kitchen Gets Facelift