The home you would have loved in your 20s and 30s might not coincide with your housing needs as you near retirement age. Part of preparing for this stage of life includes making sure your house can accommodate your needs as you age, which is why many people turn toward a custom built home. If you are considering a custom built home for your future, here are a few design features to keep in mind. 

4 Factors to Consider When Designing a Custom Home for Retirement

1. Low Maintenance

As a homeowner who is approaching retirement, you may not want a home that requires extensive renovations or upkeep to remain comfortable. New home constructions have fewer issues than houses that have been around for years, which means there aren’t many needs for repairs or remodeling projects. New houses also tend to have updated features such as energy-efficient HVAC systems that require little maintenance, so you can relax without worrying about your living conditions. 

2. Walk-in Showers

It is not uncommon for people to lose some of their mobility and balance as they get older, which can make something as simple as stepping into a bathtub challenging. A walk-in shower, however, is the perfect bathing solution since it’s safe and allows for easy movement. For additional safety, you can also add a bench or grip bars to the shower without sacrificing the attractiveness of the bathroom. 

3. Single Story

Bathing isn’t the only mobility issue that sometimes comes with age. Going up and down steps can be difficult as well, so living in a multilevel home can be challenging. However, a single-story custom built home with a bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom on the same level can ensure you will have access to everything you need. 

4. Wide Hallways & Doorways

For your new house design, consider making your hallways and doorways wide enough to comfortably accommodate mobility devices like wheelchairs and walkers. Not only will it create a sense of openness to the floor plan, but it also ensures you will have enough space to safely access each room in the home. 

Comia Home Builders in O’Fallon, MO, specializes in custom built homes and renovations. In addition to new home constructions, these professional home builders also offer quality roof installations, repairs, and renovation services. Since the company was founded in 2001, it has dedicated itself to providing exceptional craftsmanship and customizable plans at affordable prices. Call (314) 575-0521 today to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to learn more about the services they offer.