How smart design allows for luxury aging in place.
Like it or not, everyone gets older. While time may be relentless, our homes don’t have to reflect the limitations of aging. Nearly 80 percent of Americans wish to remain in their homes as they age. Yet, shockingly, less than one percent of homes are built with that goal in mind. That’s where Bonnie Lewis steps in.
Based in Scottsdale, Lewis is part of a small elite group of Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists (CAPS) who are also professional interior designers. At her firm, Bonnie J. Lewis Design, she crafts luxurious interiors that seamlessly integrate features for current needs while foreseeing future requirements.
“Most homes are not designed for people older than 75,” Lewis notes. “Even luxury houses fail to account for the changes our bodies experience over time.”
Common architectural choices often neglect accommodations for mobility devices, visual impairments, and other challenges associated with aging.
“Most homes are not designed for people older than 75,” Lewis says. “Houses, even luxury houses, aren’t designed for how the body ages.”
“Often, it requires a complete redesign and remodel to make a space both functional and fully accessible,” explains Lewis.
This usually involves widening doorways, altering flooring, and making substantial changes in kitchens and bathrooms.
ACCESSIBLE ISN’T UGLY
As the youngest baby boomers approach 60, the need for aging-in-place design intensifies, yet many are hesitant to embrace it.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: SEE THE TOP DESIGNS THAT EARNED ESTEEMED 2023 GRAND GOLD NUGGET AWARDS
“Women, in particular, are reluctant because they fear an institutional look that lacks beauty,” Lewis continues. “What they don’t realize is that my approach marries elegance and function, allowing for stunning designs that meet their needs.”
Consider a recent project Lewis undertook for a physician couple purchasing their forever home in North Scottsdale. Aged 55 and 65, their backgrounds in medicine prompted them to prepare for the future during their bathroom remodel.
“Integrating well-aging design into their remodel is proactive, ensuring safety and independence as they age. It minimizes waste by requiring only one remodel instead of two.”
The previous bathroom was dark and uninspiring, and one of Lewis’s primary goals was to transform it into a spa-like haven.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: DYNAMIC DESIGNERS | MEET ARIZONA’S TOP INTERIOR DESIGNERS IN 2022
“I began with evidence-based biophilic design, linking natural elements to promote overall well-being,” Lewis explains. “The renovation exudes a luxurious and sophisticated ambiance with relaxing hues.”
Among the standout elements are a custom 10-foot-high barn-style entry door, textured white wood-pattern tiles, custom translucent blue window treatments, organic-patterned wallpaper, and a freestanding tub. Moreover, the design incorporated well-aging features: a wheelchair-accessible vanity, slip-resistant flooring, versatile lighting for aging eyes, ADA-compliant plumbing in the shower, and even a bamboo shower seat.
“Bonnie created an extraordinary renovation that surpasses any spa bathroom I’ve ever seen,” a delighted homeowner shared. “She flawlessly included accessibility features we never imagined needing so soon.”
AVOIDING ASSISTED LIVING
Creating a home equipped with age-friendly design can be the key to staying put versus transitioning to assisted living due to unforeseen health issues.
“When a crisis occurs, it’s a race against time,” Lewis points out. “You suddenly need a home that meets special needs, and quick remodels are often impossible. Planning ahead is crucial; anticipate changes rather than reacting to them. Many find themselves in assisted living because their homes are unprepared.”
By adopting well-aging design principles, integrating smart home technology, and collaborating with professionals like Lewis, homeowners can design a luxury living space that supports them as they age.
This story is sponsored by our friends at Bonnie J. Lewis Design.