When considering a Maryland kitchen remodeling project, it can be easy to get caught up in thinking solely of what you want from the project right now. Wanting the latest features, a gorgeous aesthetic, and new appliances can be a driving force in wanting a remodel. However, as we grow older, our needs change. This is why it may be wise to design a remodel that ages in place, meaning it still meets your current criteria while paying thought to your future. Let’s take a look at 3 Maryland kitchen remodeling tips that will help your project age well.
1. Consider Accessibility
When designing the layout for your kitchen, you may be tempted to prioritize the physical aesthetic of the space. This can result in narrow spots for traffic to pass through, high cabinets, and floor materials that can easily get slippery. Accessibility is a hugely important part of aging in place. Cabinets that you frequently need to access can be set lower to reduce the need to stretch, bend, or grab a step stool. Prioritizing large open spaces can be beneficial if your kitchen eventually needs to accommodate wheelchair access. Choosing floor materials that are slip-resistant will reduce the chance of suffering a fall. These small considerations for accessibility will better help your Maryland kitchen remodeling project to age in place.
2. Clear Organization
The look of your kitchen remodel does not always have to be divorced from its ability to accommodate successful aging. Confusion is common as we get older, so putting in fail-safes to make things easier to keep track of is a great strategy to employ. One organizational tool that can both look nice and provide clarity is clear glass planes on cabinets. These allow you to look directly at what is stored, cutting down on confusion and making the organization as a whole. In addition, adding larger, easier to grasp grips to cabinetry will them easier to open for those suffering from joint pain. Your Maryland kitchen remodeling project can employ an inviting aesthetic that will also prioritize clear organization.
3. Easy-to-Use Appliances
Our appliances due much of the heavy lifting in our kitchens, and as such are one of the most important aspects to focus on when remodeling to age-in-place. Some modern appliances provide great features but can be uninviting to older users who have trouble reading their displays or making use of their proper functions. To accomplish better aging capabilities, choose appliances with clearly-communicated displays, one-touch functions, and safety guards such as turning off heating elements after a certain amount of time unattended. This will help streamline time spent in the kitchen and prevent accidents from occurring.
Our kitchens are the lifeblood of our homes. As such, it’s important to ensure that they’re able to accommodate our needs as we grow. Your Maryland kitchen remodeling project can be designed to ensure your kitchen provides for you as you get older. These small considerations can go a long way.
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