Considertions If You Want to Age in Place Safely and Comfortably in your New Home

Building a new custom home later in life is an incredible opportunity. It allows someone to create a space that fits their lifestyle today and supports their needs in the years ahead. Aging in place isn’t only about safety; It’s about comfort, independence, and the freedom to enjoy the home without limitations.

When planning a new home that supports aging in place, small design decisions can make a meaningful difference long term. Below are the most important areas to think through with your design team when designing a forever home.

Future-ready floor plans

A good floorplan does more to support aging in place than any individual safety feature. The goal is to design spaces that allow easy movement without feeling restrictive. A single-story layout is ideal, but even two-story homes can be functional when the primary suite and daily-use rooms are located on the main level (with a elevator to access the other level(s)).

Important layout features:

• Owner suite, laundry, and kitchen on the same floor

• Wide and open traffic paths

• Exterior doors placed to reduce walking distance from the garage and outdoor spaces (pools, spas, etc.)

Bathrooms built for easy access

Bathrooms are easier and safer when accessibility is part of the design from day one. Curbless showers, wide entrances, and thoughtful fixture placement prevent falls and fatigue without sacrificing beauty. When these details are integrated into the original design, they disappear into the architecture.

Helpful design choices:

• Curbless walk-in shower

• Space for a bench built directly into the shower layout

• Wall reinforcement so grab bars can be added later without remodeling

• Comfort-height toilets that make standing and sitting easier

• Adequate access to toilet area

Lighting designed for aging eyes

Good lighting is strong contributor to home comfort. In a new build, electrical planning creates the perfect opportunity to layer ambient, task, and accent lighting in every space. The goal is to reduce shadows and make movement easy at any time of day or night.

Key lighting considerations:

• Dimmers in living spaces and bedrooms

• Motion-activated lights in hallways and bathrooms

• Under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen

• Stair and pathway lighting that turns on automatically at night

Kitchens that remain easy to use

The kitchen tends to be the heart of the home. A smart layout allows someone to cook, host, and enjoy life comfortably for decades. The best designs reduce bending, reaching, and heavy lifting without changing the look of the space.

Common design features for aging in place:

• Wall ovens installed at comfortable height

• Microwave drawer instead of overhead microwave

• Pull-out shelves, lower cabinets with drawers, and pantry drawers instead of deep cabinets

• Eliminating upper cabinets that are not very accessible

• Workstation sink that allows prep while seated or standing

Flooring and materials that support balance

Flooring choices impact mobility whether someone uses a cane, walker, or wheelchair. Smooth transitions between rooms prevent tripping and make the home easier to navigate. Materials selected during the design phase can reduce slip risks without compromising design.

Helpful options:

• Slip-resistant tile in bathrooms

• Wood flooring with some texture to the surface

• No raised thresholds between rooms

• Smooth transition at each change in flooring type

Entries and circulation that stay accessible

An easy entry sets the tone for the entire home. When building new, it’s simple to add step-free entrances that don’t look like ramps. Wider hallways and doorways help with comfort now and mobility later.

Strong aging-in-place design choices:

• At least one zero-step entry from the garage or porch

• 36-inch door widths throughout the home (32” at mininum)

• Drop zone near the entry so belongings don’t need to be carried far

• Garage sized to accommodate a future lift or mobility van if needed

Spaces for connection, hobbies, and purpose

Aging in place is not only about physical safety. A fulfilling life includes time with family, friends, and personal interests. Designing these spaces into a new home encourages connection and daily enjoyment.

Meaningful lifestyle-driven spaces:

• Outdoor living areas with level access from the primary living space

• Craft, workshop, or garden zones that spark joy and routine

• Guest suite that makes visits with friends and family comfortable

• Living and dining spaces arranged for conversation, not isolation

Aging in place isn’t about preparing for decline. It’s about building a home that adapts to every season of life. The design choices that make a home future-ready also make it more comfortable today.

For homeowners planning to build a forever home, working with a builder who understands aging-in-place design can make the process smoother and more thoughtful. Mod+Co incorporates accessibility, beauty, and long-term planning into custom home designs so clients don’t have to sacrifice style for independence.

Anyone thinking about building a home to age in place can benefit from planning early, asking the right questions, and designing for both today and tomorrow.