Over the last few years as I have worked to help people remain in their homes for the course of their lives, there has been a lot of confusion about exactly what products and services I offer. First and foremost, I am a contractor. I have been building and remodeling since 1986. The type of building and remodeling that I have been focusing on for the last five years or so has been creating living spaces that work for all people through all stages of life. Variations of this type of design have been called by various names including universal design, accessible design, adaptable design, easy living design, multi generational design, and aging in place. The trouble with all of these terms is that most people don’t know what you are talking about when you use them. They tend to make the whole subject appear to be some complicated, esoteric theory that you need an advanced degree to understand. Nothing could be further from the truth.
The truth is that the bulk of the modifications I make to people’s homes as well as the features I incorporate into new homes are simply common sense solutions for life. If I use a 3’ wide door instead of a 2’ wide door into a bathroom, that just makes sense. If I install an electrical outlet at 2’ off the floor instead of near the baseboard, it makes it easier for everyone to reach it, not just someone with a disability. A home designed with a wide front door with a covered, well lighted zero step entry accessed by a wide, gently sloping walk makes life easier for everyone. Many times when I am having conversations with people about their homes, people will say, “What a great idea! That is so simple!” Most of the features I suggest are simple, but they can make all the difference in the world in the comfort and convenience you experience in your daily life.
If you or a loved one are having difficulty with any area of your home or would simply like to update your kitchen, bathroom or any other feature of your home, inside or out, give me a call at (540) 384-2064. I would be happy to come and take a look at your home and see what kind of common sense solutions could make your life easier. You can also read past editions of Housing Matters and find lots of information about common sense solutions for life at www.solidrockenterprises.com.
