The Perfect Plan for Mother In-Law Suites
Remember the Waltons? A popular TV show in the 70’s, the Walton’s showed us how wonderful multi-generational living could be. Well that was TV and fantasy. At that time families largely were two-generational, with parents and minor-age children under one roof. But now times have changed. People are living longer. But for older people getting around in their homes becomes harder. There’s a solution to keep the joy and security for seniors living at home. It’s called Mother-In-Law Suites. And the ideal resource in the Washington, DC Metro, Northern Virginia, Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Potomac areas for in-law additions and mother-in-law suite additions is Glickman/Design Remodel Build.
Creating a Home Within A Home
All generations are enriched through Mother-In-Law Suites. For aging parents, they can stay close with their children and enjoy the love and satisfaction of grandchildren. For new parents, an In-Law Suite can be real economic help. Sharing a home within a home means the togetherness of more family meals together and fewer expenses for things like nursing home or assisted living. Also, there is an emotional benefit of privacy and togetherness under one roof.
Creating the Living Space Your Family Needs
The first step is to come and see Glickman designers. They are the experts. For over 40 years Glickman has created all kinds of suite additions. There are many possibilities from a design perspective, and clients are sometimes surprised when they learn about them. Of course, there will be a private bathroom, and the exact details can be customized to suit your needs and your stylistic tastes. You’ll want to assess your home to determine the best possible location. Do you have a garage or enclosed porch that can be converted into a living space? Do you have two bedrooms that can be combined into one, or a basement that can be converted into a separate living area? Or, perhaps you have adequate space to build a room addition?
Private Bathrooms are a Must for In Law Suites
A private bathroom is a staple of any in-law suite. The room should have the necessary supports in the walls for easy installation of handles; grab bars or safety bars at a later time. Pedestal sinks are attractive and easy to use for people with wheelchairs. Another option is adjustable height vanities that can be raised or lowered according to your needs. Choose tubs that are wide enough to handle special lift seats in the future and dedicated outlets that can power a lift chair or other safety equipment when the time comes. You can eliminate the tub and choose curb-less showers that are easy to use for people with limited mobility.
A Glickman “In-Law” bath featuring curb-less shower, shower bench seat.
Kitchen Updates for in law suites
A kitchenette or kitchen area is a key component of an in-law suite. Choose raised cabinets with additional kick space underneath. Look for multi-level, pullout counters that can be used by people in walkers or wheelchairs. Faucets with motion sensors are also a smart investment. Induction cooktops are easy to use and safer. Look for wall ovens that can be mounted at a height that’s comfortable for people in wheelchairs. Choose base cabinets featuring drawers that pull out rather than cavernous cabinet spaces. All of these additions make the kitchen more functional for the aging family.
Glickman installed induction stove with touch screen and hide-away cabinet- blender
Some other considerations:
* Wider doorways to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers
* Wider hallways (36-42 inches wide)
* Extra floor space
* Easy open, lever door and drawer hardware
* Larger bathrooms with hand-held showerheads and level- entry, curbless showers
* Good lighting to include well-lit outdoor walkways and entrances
* Lower light switches and thermostat controls within easy reach of the bed.
* Easy access to separate heat and air conditioning controls as well as smoke, fire and carbon monoxide
Contact Glickman/ Design Remodel Build Today!
Today there’s an ever-changing landscape of the economy. To add value to your home and share the joy of living with parents longer, mother-in-law suites are a popular choice. If you are thinking about this possibility, now is the time to call Glickman. We place an emphasis on client communication and we would be more than happy to set up a meeting between you and one of our designers to explore the best and most economical way forward. Set the wheels in motion contact us, or call us at (301) 444-4663.