This guide will help you understand in-law suite additions.
More families are choosing to live together under one roof. Whether you have aging parents who need support, creating a separate living space can make everyone happier. An in-law suite gives your loved ones independence while keeping them close.
This guide will help you understand in-law suite additions, design ideas, accessibility features, and the local rules you need to know. Let’s explore how to create a living space that works for your whole family.
Why are Families Adding In-Law Suites?
The number of multigenerational households has grown significantly in recent years. There are many good reasons why families choose this living arrangement.
Financial Benefits
Living together helps everyone save money. Your family can split housing costs, utilities, and other expenses. Instead of paying for a separate apartment or assisted living facility, you invest in your own property. This also increases your home’s future value.
Family Support
Having multiple generations in one house means better care for everyone. Grandparents can assist with daycare. Older children can help their parents with everyday chores. Companionship and emotional support are beneficial to everyone.
Flexibility for Life Changes
An attached in-law suite gives you options. Today, it might be home to your parents. Tomorrow, it could be a home office, rental unit, or space for returning college graduates. This flexibility makes your remodeling investment worthwhile for years to come.
Prioritizing Privacy in Multigenerational Homes
The most difficult part of living with multiple generations is maintaining a healthy level of separation. Family members should be close by, but not in each other’s way.
Separate Entrances
A dedicated entrance is one of the most important features of any in-law suite addition. This allows your family members to come and go without having to walk through your main living areas. They can maintain their own schedule and have visitors without disrupting your household.
Create Distinct Living Zones
Your in-law suite should function as a complete living space. It should include:
- A bedroom with closet storage
- A private bathroom with accessible features
- A kitchenette or full kitchen
- A living area for relaxation and entertainment
- Separate climate controls
This setup lets your family members cook meals, entertain friends, and live independently. They don’t need to use your kitchen or living room unless they choose to.
Remodeling for Aging in Place
Designing environments that accommodate all ages and abilities is known as universal design. These elements make your house more accessible for everyone in the future and benefit senior parents now.
Curbless Showers
A curbless shower has no step or threshold to climb over. The floor slopes gently toward the drain, creating a smooth transition from the bathroom floor into the shower.
Benefits of curbless showers include:
- Easier access for people with limited mobility
- Safer with reduced trip hazards
- Wheelchair accessible
- Modern, clean appearance
- Easier to clean
Your contractor will need to lower the floor in the shower area to accommodate the drain. This requires careful planning during the construction phase. Proper waterproofing is critical to prevent leaks. Add a built-in bench or fold-down seat in the shower. This helps people who can’t stand for long periods
No-Step Entries
Steps at entrances create barriers for wheelchairs, walkers, and anyone with balance issues. Design your in-law suite entrance with a gentle ramp or at ground level.
If you need to have a small step, keep it under half an inch. This tiny lip helps keep water out without tripping anyone. Make sure there’s good lighting at the entrance, too.
Lever Handles Instead of Knobs
Round doorknobs are difficult for people with arthritis or weak grip strength. Lever handles are much easier to operate. You can open them with an elbow if your hands are full. This simple change makes daily tasks easier for elderly family members. It also helps anyone carrying groceries or laundry.
Contact Accessible Home Builders Today
Here at Accessible Home Builders, we’re proud to say we’ve been building and remodeling homes since 1994. We’ve serviced Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, Selbyville, Millsboro, Georgetown, Laurel, and more communities within Delaware in that time. We work to guarantee a high level of professionalism, dedication, and the use of quality materials to ensure our customers have the homes they deserve.
To get in touch with us, give us a call at our office at 302-663-0464, send us an email at info@accessiblehomebuilders.com or visit us in person at 28412 DuPont Blvd, #103 Millsboro, DE 19966. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Linked In, and YouTube to stay updated on what we’re up to next!