Smart Aging: Universal Design Features Worth Considering
At Glickman Design Build, we believe that aging in place doesn’t mean compromising on elegance or modern living. In fact, the most intelligent home designs today seamlessly blend comfort, accessibility, and luxury. Creating spaces that support you now and in the future. That’s the heart of universal design: creating homes that are intuitive, safe, and stylish for people of all ages and abilities.
But universal design has come a long way. Forget what you think you know about grab bars and ramps. Today’s features are thoughtful, beautifully integrated, and surprisingly high-end. Let’s explore some of the most underrated and luxurious universal design features worth considering for your home.
1. Zero-Threshold Showers That Make a Statement
Curbless showers are one of the most functional and elegant aging-in-place upgrades you can make. These seamless entries eliminate the trip hazard of a step-up, making them safer for everyone, but when done right, they’re also incredibly luxurious. Frameless glass, oversized rain showerheads, integrated bench seating, and linear drains add spa-like appeal that rivals the finest hotels.
Want to take it further? Consider heated floors, motion-sensor lighting, and beautiful wall-mounted storage for a sleek, clean finish.
2. Integrated Smart Home Technology
Smart home systems aren’t just convenient, they’re life-changing for aging homeowners. Voice-activated lighting, thermostat controls, motorized blinds, and even smart ovens reduce physical strain and support independence. Systems like Amazon Alexa or Google Home can be paired with smart door locks, video doorbells, and even fall detection sensors to increase safety while maintaining privacy.
Glickman often works with homeowners to create customized control hubs that allow for effortless control of the entire home, whether you’re 35 or 85.
3. Discreet Elevator or Lift Integration
A home elevator might sound like a luxury feature (and it is), but it’s also a major accessibility win. Today’s residential elevators are sleek, quiet, and can be designed to match your home’s aesthetic seamlessly. From custom panel finishes to glass shafts and hidden doors, they don’t have to stand out, and they can be a game-changer for long-term living.
If space or budget is a concern, stair lifts and vertical platform lifts are excellent alternatives that Glickman can discreetly incorporate into your space.
4. Accessible Kitchens with Designer Touches
Luxury and universal design pair beautifully in the kitchen. Pull-out shelves in lower cabinets, side-opening wall ovens, and multi-level countertops are all features that enhance usability while looking stunning. Want extra storage? Hidden prep kitchens and drawer dishwashers add both accessibility and a wow factor.
We also recommend touch or sensor-activated faucets, appliance drawers, and remote-controlled range hoods for an extra layer of ease and elegance.
5. Wider Hallways and Flush Transitions
Often overlooked, wider hallways (at least 36” wide) and flush flooring transitions between rooms are foundational for an accessible home. But they also create a sense of openness and flow that adds sophistication. Pair these with oversized, pocket, or barn-style doors for rooms that feel expansive and inviting.
These structural choices are best made early in the design process, and Glickman’s team can help assess where to adjust layouts for long-term ease without sacrificing square footage or style.
Design for Life With Glickman by Your Side
At Glickman Design Build, we specialize in creating spaces that serve our clients for a lifetime. Our universal design experts understand how to incorporate thoughtful details, both functional and luxurious, into any renovation or new addition.
Whether you’re planning an accessible in-law suite, remodeling a kitchen, or envisioning your forever bathroom, our team is here to guide you with care, creativity, and craftsmanship. Because smart aging isn’t about slowing down, it’s about living fully, beautifully, and safely.
Let’s design a home that grows with you without sacrificing style!
Contact the Glickman team today to schedule your personalized design consultation.