I'm Arielle Rosenblatt (she/her), 30, luxury interior designer and founder of Arielle Rosenblatt Interior Design based in New York. Since graduating from RCC Institute of Technology in 2015, I've specialized in creating sophisticated spaces that balance aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. While many of my high-end residential clients initially focus on design aesthetics, I've found incorporating subtle aging-in-place elements during initial design phases prevents costly renovations later. For a recent Manhattan penthouse project, we designed curbless showers with hidden grab bar reinforcements and extra-wide doorways that maintained the luxurious aesthetic while providing future accessibility. One of my favorite techniques is creating multi-level lighting systems that combine statement fixtures with practical task lighting. This approach satisfies both design goals and accessibility needs without compromising either. I also recommend investing in quality flooring transitions that eliminate trip hazards while enhancing the visual flow between spaces. My advice is to consider accessibility from the beginning, not as an afterthought. The most successful aging-in-place designs integrate seamlessly with your personal style rather than looking institutional. Work with designers who understand how to balance beauty with functionality – you shouldn't have to sacrifice luxury for accessibility.
1. Name: Magda Callery Profession: Interior Designer & Founder of Style by Magda Age: 47 Pronouns: She/her Location: Newbury, Massachusetts 2. I began to apply accessibility-led design to my client work and my own home about four years ago when my mother moved in with us following a hip replacement. We soon realized that our home—while beautiful—wasn't functional for a mobility-impaired person. 3. We widened doorways, added a walk-in shower with grab bars and a sitting bench, replaced our knobs with lever-handled handles, and moved lighting to remove shadows and increase safety. I even rearranged parts of our storage area so they could be reached without bending or stretching—little details that make a huge difference. 4. My first request was very personal: my mother's initial recovery turned into an extended hospital stay, and I observed the extent to which so many routine tasks were harder than they needed to be. As an interior designer, I was frustrated by how often accessibility features are treated as solely functional or institutional. I did not want her room to be institutional, however—because I believed that accessibility and beauty are not mutually exclusive. The modifications not only made life easier and safer for her, but also made our home more comfortable and intuitive for all of us, including guests. 5. I wish we had done it sooner. Aging-in-place design isn't just for the elder—it's a form of long-term thinking that adds value and adaptability to any home. My tip? Don't wait until a crisis. Start with considerate, incremental changes that maintain independence and comfort but still reflect your style. Accessibility can—and should—be beautiful.
Please provide your name, profession/title/retired, age, pronouns, and location. Mark Lumpkin, Co-Founder of STR Cribs and Construction & Design Expert, 39, he/him, based in Austin, Texas. When did you decide to make adjustments to your home to make it more accessible? I began incorporating accessibility features in my own properties — and counseling others to do the same — when building about six years ago. It was born not out of necessity, but after I observed firsthand how small mobility impediments can render lovely places unusable or unsafe. The tipping point was a project for the father of a friend — a veteran who had difficulty moving around post-surgery. What specific changes did you make? We've added everything from zero-threshold showers and wider doorways to pull-down shelving systems, smart lighting with voice controls, motion-triggered night lights imbedded in floorboards. Take one situation: Instead of a conventional staircase, we inserted a switchback ramp of the mildest slope, clad in nave-like polished oak surface—a flourished structural feature. Pocket doors with simple-to-grip handles replaced hinged ones for better flow and less spatial friction. We also choose combinations of matte-finish flooring to avoid glare or transitions between rooms when we can. What prompted you to do this (if not already answered)? If applicable, please describe the challenges you or a loved one experienced before these changes were in place, and what effect the changes have had on your/their life. It wasn't until we started hosting older guests in our rentals and hearing others say they didn't book certain homes because of difficult stair access or slippery floors. I have even seen my own grandfather become hesitant to use his guest bathroom after he slipped on slick tile — he quietly transformed to a jug-and-basin setup in his bedroom. That shouldn't be the norm. After we made these adjustments, I watched people's confidence come back in their homes — it can be something as small as being able to open a cabinet on your own or take a shower without someone helping you that would bring their identity back to them. Turns out, accessibility is not just a safety issue. It's about dignity.
I'm Reinis Butka, interior designer and lighting specialist, 33, he/him, based in Riga, Latvia. I decided to help remodel my grandparents' home for accessibility around 4 years ago, when I noticed their daily routines becoming harder. I personally saw how little things — like struggling with bathroom steps or reaching a kitchen shelf — could add stress and even risk injury, and I just couldn't ignore it anymore. I started with the essentials — we installed non-slip flooring in key areas, widened the doorways for easier wheelchair access, and swapped out standard door handles for lever-style ones which are just so much easier on the joints. I also added motion-activated lighting in the hallway and bathroom, because I've seen firsthand how poor lighting at night is just a recipe for disaster. I didn't want to wait until something bad happened, so I made these updates proactively, and the relief it brought my grandparents was visible almost immediately. They moved more freely, they felt more independent, and I felt so much better knowing they were safe. If I could go back, I would have probably consulted an occupational therapist earlier in the process, just to make the changes even more tailored to their long-term needs. I always tell clients that accessibility remodels aren't just for the elderly or disabled — they're for anyone who wants to live with dignity and comfort as they age. Don't wait for a fall or emergency — do it before you need it.
I'm Mike Martinez (he/him), 42, owner of Accountable Home Remodeling in Denver, Colorado. We specialize in accessibility modifications that maintain aesthetics while improving functionality. When working with clients on aging-in-place renovations, I focus on widening doorways to 36" and installing zero-threshold entries. These modifications allow for wheelchair access without sacrificing the home's visual appeal. For a recent client in Lakewood, we removed a load-bearing wall to create an open-concept main floor that eliminated navigation challenges. Flooring choices are critical but often overlooked. I recommend slip-resistant luxury vinyl planks that mimic hardwood's beauty without the maintenance issues. Kitchen renovations should include varied counter heights (34" and 30") and pull-out shelving. One Boulder client told me these simple changes meant they could continue cooking independently despite mobility challenges. My biggest advice: think beyond the immediate needs. Plan for progressive stages of mobility changes to avoid multiple renovations. Budget for quality materials upfront - we've found clients save approximately 30% by doing comprehensive planning rather than piecemeal updates. Most importantly, focus on modifications that maintain independence and dignity while preserving the home's character.
I'm Matthew Runyon (he/him), 42, President of EMC Remodeling & Roofing in Temple, Texas. Over my 15+ years in the industry, I've guided hundreds of Central Texas homeowners through accessibility modifications that allow them to stay in their homes safely as they age. Bathroom renovations provide the biggest impact for aging in place. We recently helped a Temple couple in their 70s by installing zero-entry showers, grab bars that double as towel racks, comfort-height toilets, and slip-resistant flooring. Their risk of bathroom falls has dramatically decreased while maintaining their independence. Window replacements are often overlooked but crucial. We installed easy-operation vinyl windows with lower sill heights for a client with arthritis, making it possible for her to independently ventilate her home without struggling with old, stuck wooden frames. For entryways, we've eliminated steps by creating gentle slopes with proper drainage, allowing wheelchair access without expensive ramps. My advice: don't wait for a crisis to make modifications. Start with small changes like lever-style door handles and rocker light switches that benefit everyone now while planning for larger projects. Also, consider whole-home energy efficiency upgrades like attic insulation and high-performance windows during your remodel - they'll reduce monthly costs during retirement years when income may be fixed.
CEO & Co-owner at Paintit.ai – AI Interior Design & Virtual Staging
Answered a year ago
1. Name: Yulii Cherevko Profession: CEO & Co-owner, Paintit.ai - AI Interior Design & Virtual Staging Age: 37 Pronouns: he Location: London, UK (working with clients internationally) 2. We began incorporating accessibility upgrades into residential projects in 2019, after working with a client who was preparing her home for her aging parents to move in. That project reshaped how we approached universal design — not as a medical requirement, but as thoughtful, future-proof living. 3. We've remodeled multiple homes to include walk-in showers with no thresholds, wider doorways to allow for mobility devices, and strategically placed grab bars that blend into the design rather than stand out. In one case, we replaced all hardware with lever-style handles and added under-cabinet lighting for nighttime navigation. 4. One of the biggest challenges we saw — especially before making the changes — was how small things created daily friction: deep bathtubs with no rails, narrow hallways, uneven flooring transitions. After the remodel, the emotional difference was immediate. Our client's father, who had limited mobility, regained independence and comfort. The home no longer "reminded" him of his limitations. 5. If I could do one thing differently, it would be starting the accessibility planning earlier in the design phase. It's not just about aging — it's about dignity, safety, and ease of use for everyone. My advice to others: design with the future in mind, even if you're not there yet. Accessibility done well is invisible — but it makes a world of difference. Let me know if you'd like photos or want to explore the role of AI in helping families preview accessible renovations through our platform, Paintit.ai.
1) I'm Jeff Guerette (he/him), 45, owner of JG Stone & Tile in Fairfield County, Connecticut. I've been in the tile and stone industry for over 20 years, specializing in high-end bathroom renovations. 2) While I haven't modified my own home yet, I've helped dozens of clients transform their bathrooms for aging in place over the past decade. The trend has accelerated in the last 5 years as more homeowners choose to stay in their homes longer. 3) The most successful accessibility modifications I install are curbless showers with proper waterproofing systems. These eliminate trip hazards while maintaining a luxury aesthetic. I also regularly install slip-resistant floor tiles (usually textured porcelain with a coefficient of friction rating of 0.42 or higher), built-in shower benches, and strategically placed grab bars that double as towel bars for a seamless look. 4) A recent client in her 70s had been using a shower chair that barely fit in her old tub/shower combo. After installing a curbless walk-in shower with a built-in bench and handheld shower fixture, she told me she felt "human again" being able to shower independently without fear of falling. The waterproof membrane system we installed ensures there are no leaks despite the zero-entry design. 5) My advice: don't wait for a crisis to make accessibility changes. Start with the bathroom since it's where most home accidents occur. Invest in professional waterproofing (not DIY) for curbless showers - I've repaired too many leaking DIY attempts. And remember that accessible doesn't mean institutional-looking; with today's tile options, your bathroom can be both functional and beautiful.
I'm Beth Southorn (she/her), 50s, Executive Director of LifeSTEPS, based in Sacramento, CA. While I'm not an interior designer, my 30+ years in social services has involved helping thousands of seniors age in place within affordable housing communities. At LifeSTEPS, we implemented comprehensive aging-in-place programs around 2015 after seeing many seniors struggling to remain independent. Our approach focuses on both physical modifications and supportive services, maintaining our remarkable 98.3% housing retention rate for vulnerable populations. The most impactful modifications we've implemented include bathroom grab bars, non-slip flooring, improved lighting in hallways, lowered kitchen counters, and doorway widening for wheelchair access. These changes cost between $2,500-15,000 but are far less expensive than institutional care alternatives. My biggest advice: start with a professional assessment before making changes. Many people install features that don't address their specific needs. Also, consider universal design principles that work for all mobility levels rather than obviously "medical-looking" modifications that can feel stigmatizing. The most successful aging-in-place solutions combine physical modifications with community-based support services.
I'm George Huizinga (he/him), 45, Founder and Owner of Zinga's, specializing in custom window coverings and outdoor living solutions in Indianapolis. While not traditionally labeled "accessibility," our work frequently focuses on helping homeowners create spaces where they can comfortably age in place. We've found that thoughtful window treatments significantly impact accessibility and independence. Motorized shades eliminate the need to reach for cords or handles, particularly beneficial for clients with mobility challenges. Smart home integration allows operation via voice commands or smartphone, providing autonomy for those with limited dexterity. Privacy solutions became a major focus after working with several clients who wanted to stay in their neighborhoods but felt exposed as mobility decreased. One client in her 70s couldn't manage traditional blinds but needed daytime privacy without sacrificing natural light - our motorized top-down/bottom-up shades solved this perfectly while remaining operable through her existing smart home system. My advice: consider multi-purpose modifications that improve both aesthetics and function. Too often people delay accessibility improvements because they don't want their home looking "institutional." Modern solutions like hidden grab bars that double as towel racks or stylish motorized treatments preserve dignity while adding safety. Start with small changes in critical areas (bathroom, bedroom, kitchen) rather than waiting until a major renovation becomes necessary.
I'm Judah Strausberg, owner of Peak Builders & Roofers serving Southern California and Denver (he/him), age 38. Through my company, I've overseen numerous accessibility-focused bathroom remodels for clients aging in place. Our most impactful accessibility modifications include widening doorways to minimum 32" with 18" clearance on the latch side, installing strategically placed grab bars in shower/tub areas (positioned for both horizontal and vertical use, 33" from floor), and lowering light switches/fixtures for wheelchair access. We also frequently raise toilet heights to assist those with mobility issues. These modifications were driven by the growing needs of elderly and disabled homeowners who wanted to remain independent in their homes. Before these changes, clients often reported anxiety about bathroom safety and limited independence; afterward, they experience significantly improved confidence and mobility. My key advice: prioritize safety above aesthetics, but know you don't have to sacrifice style for function. Plan comprehensively—consider future needs, not just current ones. The most overlooked element is proper clearance space for turning mobility devices, so ensure you're designing with at least a 5-foot diameter clear space. Waterproofing is also critical for roll-in showers to prevent long-term damage.
My name is Lauren Hammer, and I'm the Founder and Lead Organizer at *Revive My Spaces*, based in Boston. I'm 30 years old, she/her, and I've worked on over 50 homes to help people declutter and reclaim their peace. While my core work is organizing, accessibility became a personal priority a few years ago when my mom was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson's. We needed to make her space safe but still beautiful and comfortable so she could stay in her home long term. We started making adjustments about two years ago. Her hallway had tight turns, the bathroom was slippery, and everyday things like high cabinets and narrow doorways were turning into obstacles. So, I remodeled her main floor to be fully accessible. We widened doorways for walker access, installed no threshold flooring, replaced her tub with a walk in shower and mounted adjustable grab bars that blend right in with her bathroom's decor. I also reconfigured her kitchen lowered countertops, added pull out pantry drawers, and made sure lighting was automatic and bright without being harsh. What really pushed this was a fall she had one night trying to get to the bathroom in the dark. That scared us both. Since the changes, she hasn't had a single safety incident, and the emotional relief has been huge. She's able to move through her space with independence and dignity and I've seen firsthand how small changes create massive freedom. As someone who works in home environments every day, I now look at every project with a broader lens. Accessibility isn't just about aging or disability it's about creating homes that work with you, not against you. If I could go back, I would've started earlier. We waited for a problem to make a change, and now I advise clients to think ahead. Don't wait for a diagnosis or an accident design for comfort and safety today. Whether you're a caregiver or just planning for the future, accessibility remodels can be stylish, seamless, and life giving. Homes are meant to support us and we all deserve to feel safe in them.
Hi, I'm Brian Curran, structural engineer and founder of Drafting Services LLC in New York. I'm 34, he/him, and I've been working in residential renovation and drafting for over a decade. During the pandemic, like a lot of professionals, I found myself working from home full time for the first time. At first, I tried to make do by cramming my equipment, my drafting table, dual monitors, reference prints, into the living room. But it didn't take long to realize the setup wasn't going to work. Because the space felt cramped, the lighting was off, and navigating around furniture and cords just made the whole room feel like a temporary fix. That's when I made the decision to make some actual changes to the layout of my own home. I took down a non load bearing wall to merge the receiving area with the living room and give myself a larger, more functional workspace. It wasn't a massive structural change, but it had a huge effect on the flow and feel of the space. I also adjusted the lighting layout and added more intentional task lighting, because in my work, visual clarity isn't optional. I also widened a narrow doorway while I was at it, partly for comfort but also because I was already thinking about long-term accessibility. It's the kind of thing I advise my clients on all the time, so I figured it made sense to practice what I preach. Even after the pandemic, I didn't reverse the changes. Because the space just worked better. It was more open, more usable, and more inviting. And that's what stuck with me, that sometimes you don't know how limiting a layout is until your life shifts and you need your home to flex with you. That experience changed the way I think about renovation, even in my professional work. And made me realize that accessibility and comfort shouldn't be treated as reactive fixes. They're smart design principles that future-proof a space and make day to day life easier whether you're thirty-four or seventy-four. If I were to offer one piece of advice to anyone considering accessibility-related upgrades, it's to not wait until you're forced to adapt. You'll always have more freedom to design well when you're not doing it under pressure. Even small changes, like removing a tight hallway turn or switching to lever handles can quietly add years of comfort and safety to your home without compromising its style.
When a close relative started experiencing problems with stairs and uneven flooring, we made modifications to the house. The house wasn't made with accessibility in mind when it was constructed, decades ago. It became evident that daily duties were becoming more difficult as mobility began to deteriorate. Creating a more secure and cozy environment without sacrificing the homey atmosphere was the aim. Time was of the essence. Before an accident compelled us to make the choice, we made it. We focused on flooring first. We removed all carpets and installed flat, durable surfaces to reduce tripping. We adjusted bathroom layouts to allow easier access and added support rails where needed. Entryways were widened, and high thresholds were lowered. These changes made moving between rooms easier and less stressful. Daily routines improved, and independence returned. The person using the space no longer had to ask for help with simple tasks. If I could do one thing differently, it would be to bring in an accessibility expert earlier. Their input would've saved time and rework. Anyone making similar upgrades should focus on the most used areas first. Make movement easier and reduce effort. Comfort and safety don't need luxury materials. They need smart decisions.
Vice President of Operations & Integrator at Task Master Inc.
Answered a year ago
I'm Christopher Deanovic (he/him), 37, Operations Leader at Task Masters in Minnesota, specializing in transformative home renovations focused on aging-in-place solutions. For aging-in-place renovations, we prioritize bathroom modifications first - installing zero-threshold showers, comfort-height toilets, and slip-resistant flooring. These small changes make daily routines safer without sacrificing style. One client reduced their fall risk dramatically while maintaining their home's modern aesthetic. Kitchen accessibility is equally important - we install varied counter heights, pullout shelving, and touch-activated fixtures. Recently we transformed a cramped kitchen for a couple in their 60s, allowing them to steer with mobility aids while maintaining the cooking space they loved. My advice: start modifications before they're needed. Smart planning now prevents rushed, expensive renovations later. Consider widened hallways and strategic furniture placement that improves flow without obvious institutional elements. The best aging-in-place designs should feel like thoughtful upgrades rather than medical necessities.
I'm Brent Goschnick (he/him), 45, Director of G&M Craftsman Cabinets on the Sunshine Coast, Australia. Having taken over our third-generation family business, I've specialized in changing homes with bespoke cabinetry solutions that balance both aesthetics and functionality. Many of our most successful projects involve creating adaptable spaces that grow with clients' changing needs. We recently designed an innovative kitchen for a couple in their 60s featuring adjustable-height countertops and pull-out shelving systems that eliminated their need to bend or stretch. Their feedback was remarkable - daily cooking became enjoyable again rather than physically taxing. The pandemic shifted our business significantly toward aging-in-place renovations. We've pioneered cabinetry solutions that maximize storage accessibility while maintaining luxury aesthetics - like our bathroom vanities with integrated grab rails that look like designer handles. The critical factor is planning beyond immediate needs; we install reinforced backing in all bathroom cabinetry so future supports can be added without demolition. My biggest lesson from two decades in this industry is that functionality must lead design when planning for accessibility. We encourage clients to budget an extra 20% for quality materials and adaptable features, as this investment delivers exponential returns in extended independence and avoiding costly relocations later. Custom solutions may cost more initially but create living spaces that truly accommodate changing physical needs while still feeling like home.
1) William Coble, General Contractor and founder of Raleigh Roofers, LLC, 50s, he/him, Raleigh, NC. 2) Around 2018, I began specializing in aging-in-place modifications after several clients in their 60s-70s requested home updates that would allow them to remain independent longer. 3) The most successful projects I've completed include zero-threshold entries ($3,000-5,000), first-floor bedroom conversions ($15,000-25,000), and widened doorways with pocket doors ($800-1,200 per doorway). Stairlifts ($3,000-8,000) have been transformative for clients with multi-level homes. 4) One particularly meaningful project involved changing a 1960s ranch home for a couple in their 70s after the husband's stroke. We installed a curbless shower, kitchen pull-down shelving, and lever door handles. The wife later told me her husband regained significant independence, reducing her caregiver stress considerably. 5) I strongly recommend planning these modifications before they're urgently needed. Many clients wait until after a fall or medical crisis, making the renovation process more stressful. Also, consider working with an electrician to add motion-sensor lighting in hallways and bathrooms—it's relatively affordable ($500-800) yet prevents countless nighttime falls.
I'm Jeremy Jackson (he/him), 38, Master Electrician and owner of JD Electrical Home Solutions serving the Denver metro area. Through my 15+ years of experience, I've helped numerous clients upgrade their homes with lighting solutions specifically designed for aging in place. The most impactful electrical modifications we implement focus on lighting upgrades that prevent falls and increase independence. Smart lighting systems with motion sensors eliminate the need to fumble for switches in the dark. Properly placed dimmer installations in bedrooms and hallways allow for adjustable lighting levels that reduce eye strain for seniors while maintaining adequate visibility. One recent project involved installing task lighting under kitchen cabinets and above countertops for a client with deteriorating vision. The strategic placement of these lights dramatically improved their ability to prepare meals safely. Another client reported that our installation of pathway lighting with motion sensors eliminated their nighttime bathroom trip anxiety. My advice: don't overlook the importance of proper lighting when planning accessibility modifications. Consider how lighting needs change throughout the day and install systems that adapt automatically. Most people focus on physical modifications but forget that poor lighting is a major contributor to falls and accidents. Invest in professional lighting design that combines ambient, task, and accent lighting to create spaces that are both safe and comfortable.
I'm Jesse Burnett (he/him), 30s, Master Electrician and founder of Dr. Electric CSRA in Augusta, GA. While I'm not an interior designer, I've completed hundreds of electrical projects specifically for aging-in-place and accessibility renovations. Most clients call us when they're converting spaces for aging parents or addressing their own mobility concerns. The most impactful electrical modifications include installing motion-activated lighting in hallways and bathrooms, lowering light switches to wheelchair height (typically 36-40"), and adding smart home controls that allow voice operation of lighting, fans, and appliances. What many homeowners overlook is the importance of proper GFCI protection in bathrooms and strategic placement of outlets. We recently installed specialized outlets at bed height for a client with Parkinson's to easily plug in medical equipment without bending down. These seemingly small changes dramatically improved his daily independence. My recommendation is to consult with a licensed electrician before any accessibility renovation begins. Retrofit electrical work becomes significantly more expensive when done after drywall and cabinetry are in place. The most successful projects I've seen incorporate electrical planning early, especially for features like ceiling lifts or stairlift systems that require dedicated circuits.
I'm Jerald Sargent (he/him), 60s, owner of Slabjack Geotechnical in Washington state. While I specialize in concrete repair rather than interior design, our work directly impacts accessibility as settled concrete creates dangerous trip hazards for aging homeowners. I've seen how concrete settling affects aging-in-place safety - particularly exterior walkways, porches, and garage floors that develop uneven surfaces. In Yakima, we restored a severely settled porch (dropped 2 inches) for homeowners who couldn't safely steer their front entrance, using polyurethane foam lifting technology that's far less disruptive than replacement. Many clients contact us after home inspections reveal foundation issues they hadn't noticed were developing. One client finded her foundation problems only when preparing to sell, but addressing these concrete defects proactively saves thousands versus waiting until someone falls or mobility devices can't steer the uneven surfaces. My practical advice: don't overlook exterior concrete when planning aging-in-place modifications. Many homeowners focus exclusively on interior accessibility while neglecting driveways, sidewalks and entries that become increasingly dangerous as mobility decreases. Have concrete professionally evaluated early - our polyurethane technology can stabilize and level surfaces in hours without the weeks of disruption caused by traditional replacement.