Preparing your home for a renovation involves clearing and protecting the work area, removing valuables and fragile items, establishing clear communication with your contractor, and setting up temporary living arrangements if needed—all steps that help ensure a smooth, stress-free remodeling experience.
A successful remodel doesn’t start on demo day. It starts with a good plan. Knowing how to prepare for a home remodel can help protect your belongings and keep things running smoothly. A clear remodeling preparation checklist can help prepare before remodeling starts and deal with the process while it’s happening. Here are some practical home renovation tips to help you feel more organized (and calm!) from day one.
Before the tools arrive and the walls come down, there are a few steps you’ll want to take to save time and money. Think of this as your jump start to preparing for home renovations. These steps will help set expectations, protect your valuables, and create a safer, cleaner work environment.
Clear the work area and adjacent spaces
Empty the project zone completely, including cabinets, closets, and shelves. Next, clear a buffer zone of 3-6 feet around the workspace so crews can move safely and stage all of their materials. Use labeled bins to group items you’ll need during construction versus what can be stored.
Remove or protect furniture, artwork, and valuables
Relocate fragile decor, heirlooms, electronics, and important documents to a closed room away from dust and debris. If you have delicate items that are too large to move, cover them with plastic sheeting and moving blankets. Use blue painters’ tape along the edges to keep dust out. You may also want to consider short-term storage options.
Photograph the space for before-and-after comparisons
Take wide shots and detail photos from multiple angles. These images are useful for design decisions, documentation, and celebrating the progress of your project.
Discuss the project timeline and expectations with your contractor
Talk to your contractor to confirm:
The start date
Daily work hours
Delivery windows
Key milestones for demo, rough-in, inspections, and finishes
Check to see if any utilities will be interrupted and if there are rooms you’ll need to stay out of during the remodel. Agree on jobsite rules like parking, music volume, and end-of-day cleanup so everyone knows the expectations on the jobsite.
How do you protect your home during a remodel?
Construction creates a love of dust and traffic, no matter how careful a contractor might be. A little protection goes a long way, and these steps are standard on MBK projects. We think they are essential on any remodeling preparation checklist.
Establish dust barriers and containment zones
Ask your contractor to install zipper-door plastic barriers and (if appropriate) HEPA filtration systems. Seal vents to keep dust out of the HVAC system. If you are going to remain in the home during the renovation, request a “clean corridor” so you can move around your home safely while minimizing dust transfer.
Protect flooring in high-traffic areas
Use floor protection from the entry to the work zone. Add corner guards on tight turns and stair protection where materials will be carried. Place shoe-cleaning mats at thresholds to reduce dust migration.
Secure pets and create safe spaces for them
Noise and strangers can be stressful for animals. Set up a quiet room with food, water, and a familiar bed. Add temporary baby gates for added security. Share pet routines and sensitivities with the project manager.
Plan for alternative access routes if needed
If the main entry or a hallway will be blocked, identify a secondary route and keep it well-lit and clear.
What should you plan for during the renovation?
Living through construction is easier with a few strategic adjustments. Prepare the “workarounds” now, and the day-to-day will feel far less disruptive.
Set up a temporary kitchen or bathroom if needed
For kitchen projects, relocate a mini-fridge, microwave, toaster oven, and coffee station to a spare room or basement. Stock disposable plates or designate a utility sink for dishwashing. During bath remodels, coordinate shower and laundry schedules, and consider off-site options for the most disruptive weeks. The local gym or a friendly neighbor can be good options.
Establish communication protocols with your contractor
Decide how you’ll exchange updates and who the primary contact is for decisions. Request a weekly look-ahead schedule so you know when loud work, inspections, or material deliveries will occur.
Plan for noise, dust, and schedule disruptions
Even with containment, you’ll hear saws and smell finishes occasionally. Noise-canceling headphones, white-noise machines, and flexible work hours help. Expect a few schedule shifts due to inspections or back-ordered items.
Keep kids and pets safe around the work area
Treat construction areas like a pool: off-limits without an adult. Talk to kids about why they can’t touch any of the tools and that the barriers need to remain closed.
How do you prepare emotionally and mentally?
Mindset matters! Remodeling is exciting, but any change can feel disruptive. Planning for the human impact of a renovation can keep stress in check.
Set realistic expectations for disruption
There will be dust, noise, and days when progress feels slow. Remind yourself in the messy middle phases that these are necessary steps for a finished space.
Plan activities outside the home during noisy work
Run errands in the morning, head to the park in the afternoon, or sign up for a co-working space during the day. Pre-book some off-site breaks during heavy demo days so you can get a break.
Stay flexible with timelines and decisions
You’ll make major selections early in the process, but be open to small changes during the process. Flexibility often leads to a better final product.
Trust your contractor’s expertise
You hired professionals for a reason! Something unexpected can (and often does) happen in a home renovation, but collaborating with an expert and getting their advice can make a setback nothing more than a minor bump in the road.
What questions should you ask your contractor before starting?
Clear communication prevents confusion and protects your investment. Use this list to guide your kickoff meeting about what to do before remodeling and how the team will operate in your home.
What are the work hours and expected timeline?
How will you handle dust and debris?
What access do workers need to my home?
How do we communicate about changes or concerns?
How MBK Constructors Makes Remodeling Easier
Stewardship isn’t just a promise we make; it’s baked into our process. We install dust containment, protect your floors, and maintain clean, organized jobsites from start to finish. Our project managers set clear expectations up front and provide plenty of updates so you always know what’s happening next. Our goal is to minimize disruption and deliver outstanding craftsmanship on every project.
Feel prepared, not overwhelmed. Let MBK guide you through how to prepare for a home remodel with a customized prep plan. Connect with one of our project managers to get started.
FAQ Section
Q: How much should I pack away before a remodel?
A: Clear everything from the immediate work area and adjacent rooms. Remove fragile items, valuables, and personal belongings from any space where dust could travel. Your contractor can provide specific guidance based on your project scope.
Q: Should I stay in my home during a major remodel?
A: It depends on the scope of work. Kitchen and bathroom remodels can often be managed while living in the home, though it requires flexibility. Whole-home renovations may require temporary relocation. Discuss options with your contractor.
Q: How far in advance should I start preparing?
A: Begin preparation 2-4 weeks before construction starts. This gives you time to clear spaces, make arrangements, and address any questions with your contractor without feeling rushed
The best home upgrades to gift yourself are those that combine high return on investment with daily quality-of-life improvements, such as kitchen remodels, bathroom updates, accessibility features, and energy-efficient improvements that pay dividends for years to come.
Weighing up how to use your end-of-year funds? Winter home improvement projects can help you boost your comfort now and your value later. With demand shifting indoors and schedules opening up, this season is ideal for home upgrades that keep on giving, improving daily life in January and beyond while also becoming the best home improvements for resale in the future.
Here’s how to prioritize projects that give you enjoyment now and maximize your home renovation ROI.
Why is year-end a great time for home improvements?
The end of the year offers a rare combination of scheduling advantages, financial opportunities, and momentum for the year ahead.
Contractor availability during the winter months
Winter can offer better access to skilled remodeling crews since exterior work slows down. Their availability means faster start dates and tighter timelines.
Tax considerations and year-end bonuses
Many homeowners use bonuses or savings to fund year-end home improvements. Certain energy-efficient upgrades may also qualify for credits or rebates (talk to your talk professional).
Start the new year in your dream space
Completing upgrades before spring gives you a lifestyle lift ready to go in the new year. When you gift yourself a home upgrade, you get to enjoy your investment daily through the rest of the year.
Better pricing and scheduling flexibility
With fewer jobs competing for attention, suppliers and trades sometimes offer better pricing and lead times. That can shorten the timeframe from design to install and help you maximize ROI.
What home upgrades provide the best return on investment?
While exact returns vary by market and scope, these projects consistently rank among the best home improvements for resale.
Kitchen remodels (minor and major)
A minor kitchen refresh can add function and style without full-scale demolition. Consider:
Painting cabinetry
Replacing countertops and hardware
Updating lighting
Swapping out tired appliances
Major kitchen remodels can reconfigure your layout for better flow or integrate premium finishes. Both approaches have a strong appeal to the resale market.
Bathroom updates and additions
Bathrooms punch above their weight on ROI. Upgrades like tile, vanities, lighting, ventilation, and new fixtures immediately elevate the experience. If plumbing access allows, adding a second bath widens your home’s buyer pool and improves daily convenience.
Basement finishing and additional living space
Finished lower levels create flexible square footage: media rooms, guest suites, playrooms, or home gyms. Thoughtful basements include moisture management, sound control, durable flooring, and egress where required. Because an added living area expands how a home lives, finished spaces frequently deliver strong value and utility.
Energy-efficient windows and insulation
Air sealing, added insulation, and high-performance windows reduce drafts and energy costs while improving quiet and comfort. These upgrades appeal to cost-conscious buyers and enhance day-to-day livability.
Which upgrades improve your daily quality of life?
ROI isn’t strictly financial. Consider how your home supports you, your lifestyle, and your family. These projects can deliver big results for quality of life:
How do you prioritize which upgrades to tackle first?
The best upgrades balance your budget and immediate need without losing sight of your long-term plans. You’ll want to:
Assess your immediate needs vs. long-term goals
List pain points alongside future goals. Prioritize projects that solve daily frustrations while aligning with the longer-term vision.
Consider your budget and financing options
Set a comfortable budget (don’t forget to allow for contingencies) and align the scope with that number. Phased plans can deliver quick wins now and larger updates later, letting you spread investment.
Think about how long you plan to stay in your home
If you want to move within a few years, lean towards projects that will appeal to a broader audience of potential buyers. If you plan on staying put long-term, put more emphasis on your own quality of life.
Consult with a design-build professional
An experienced design-build contractor can help you decide which projects to tackle first and right-size the scope of your plans. They’ll protect your budget and schedule while helping you achieve the vision you have for your home.
Let MBK Constructors Help You Plan Your Perfect Home Upgrade
Winter is a great time for home upgrades. MBK Constructors can help you turn your plans into polished results. Our design-build team will help you choose winter home improvement projects that fit your goals while prioritizing the best home improvements for resale. We coordinate everything and keep you in the loop throughout the process.
Ready to gift yourself a home upgrade that keeps paying off? Let’s turn year-end momentum into spaces you’ll love in every season. Contact MBK Constructors to speak with a project manager, compare options, and plan your winter home upgrades.
FAQ Section
Q: What’s the average ROI for a kitchen remodel?
A: According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, minor kitchen remodels typically recoup 75-85% of their cost, while major upscale remodels recoup 50-60%. However, the quality-of-life benefits are often priceless.
Q: Should I focus on upgrades for resale or for my own enjoyment?
A: If you plan to stay in your home for several years, prioritize upgrades that enhance your daily life. If you’re planning to sell soon, focus on high-ROI projects like kitchen and bathroom updates that appeal to buyers.
Q: Can I start planning now and complete the project in early 2026?
A: Absolutely! Winter is an ideal time to plan your project with a design-build contractor. You can finalize designs, select materials, and schedule construction for completion in early 2026.
The best holiday home upgrades combine festive appeal with year-round functionality, including fireplace remodels, built-in display shelving, improved lighting, and open-concept entertaining spaces that make your home the perfect gathering place for celebrations.
The holidays bring people together. They also bring coats, boots, gifts, food, and plenty of merriment around the fire. If you are hosting this holiday season, making plans for your holiday home upgrades can make your space more functional now while adding value long after the decorations are packed away. From smart fireplace remodel ideas to better lighting and storage, the right remodel balances your budget with overall impact. Make your home feel more welcoming and ready for holiday guests.
What home upgrades make the biggest impact for holiday entertaining?
A few improvements can transform how your home works during gatherings without requiring a full overhaul of your space.
Fireplace remodels and mantel upgrades for a festive focal point
A fireplace anchors the room not only as a visual point, but as a gathering place at the holidays. It’s where photos are taken, stockings are hung, and conversations naturally happen. Consider a fireplace renovation with a new stone or tile surround, a sleek drywall build-out, or a custom wood mantel big enough for greenery and lights. Hidden power or low-voltage wiring behind the mantel can keep holiday decor ideas tidy, while updated materials elevate the rest of the room.
Built-in shelving and display areas for holiday decor
Custom built-ins frame the fireplace, showcase heirlooms, and offer closed storage for off-season items. Adjustable shelves and integrated lighting let you stage seasonal vignettes now and books, art, or plants later. Make sure home improvements for entertaining at the holidays stand the test of time by opting for durable finishes.
Kitchen and dining space improvements for hosting
Traffic flow matters most when the house is full. Widened pathways, a better island layout, or built-in benches can increase seating without crowding the room. Add a beverage center or warming drawer so guests can help themselves while keeping the main food prep areas clear. These little tweaks in your kitchen and dining space will deliver a lot of value during the holidays, but you’ll love them year-round.
Lighting upgrades to create ambiance
Layered lighting sets the mood for gatherings. Smart dimmers and app-based controls make it easy to shift from dinner prep to hot cocoa by the fire. Lighting is one of the fastest home upgrades for Christmas that keeps paying off throughout the year.
How can you transform your fireplace for the holidays?
Because the mantel becomes the backdrop for holiday memories, a thoughtful update goes a long way.
Modern fireplace surround updates
Refreshing the surround immediately changes the room’s character. Try:
Each option provides a backdrop that complements seasonal decor and elevates everyday living.
Custom mantel designs for displaying stockings and decor
A right-scaled mantel that’s deep enough for garland, candles, and stockings keeps decor secure and out of the way of the firebox. Consider integrated LED lighting, concealed outlets, and heat-resistant finishes so decor stays safe and cords stay hidden.
Converting to gas or electric for convenience
If you are tired of hauling wood or managing soot, converting to gas or installing a high-efficiency electric insert provides instant ambiance and easier maintenance. Remote controls and thermostatic settings let you fine-tune the warmth for parties or cocoa for two.
Adding built-in storage for firewood or media
Flanking niches or bench-height cabinets hide media components or become convenient blanket storage. Soft-close doors and cord management can prevent clutter and protect equipment, ideal for homes with a television over the fireplace.
What other upgrades enhance your home’s holiday appeal?
Beyond the hearth, a handful of strategic changes can improve circulation, organization, and comfort when your guest list grows.
Open-concept remodels for better flow during gatherings
Remove non-load-bearing walls or widen a cased opening to make room for mingling. Even a modest structural change can make the kitchen, dining, and living spaces feel more unified.
Mudroom additions for winter coats and boots
A well-designed entry keeps slush and clutter from creeping into your living spaces. Built-in cubbies, bench seating, and waterproof flooring set the scene, while closed storage holds bulky coats and extra linens for overnight guests.
Wine storage and bar areas for entertaining
A compact bar with undercounter refrigeration, glass storage, and a prep sink frees the kitchen and creates a natural gathering point. Tuck it into a nook in the dining room, in a transitional hallway space, or near the living room for easy self-serve access.
Outdoor lighting and covered entries
Guests appreciate safe, well-lit paths and a dry landing zone. Add motion lighting, step lights, and a small canopy or portico to improve safety and first impressions. It’s a great backdrop for weather and garlands, too.
Can you complete these upgrades before the holidays?
Timing depends on scope, selections, and permitting. With the right plan, you can still make meaningful progress this season and set up larger work for the new year.
Planning timeline for holiday-ready remodels
Quick wins can wrap up in weeks. Projects like custom cabinetry, wall removals, or fireplace conversions can take longer. Locking design decisions early can help you meet a tighter schedule.
Quick-impact projects vs. major renovations
Want to make a more immediate impact? Try:
Upgrading the fireplace surround
Adding dimmers to existing fixtures
Installing a beverage center
Building simple open shelving
Bigger transformations can start now, so installation happens before you start hosting. If the timeline doesn’t work, though, phase the work in after the holidays are over.
The value of planning ahead for next year
Sometimes the vision is bigger than the timeline. If that happens, you can start planning now and ordering any materials with a long lead time. Then you can start construction in late winter or early spring. You’ll stress less and have the finished result well before next year’s festivities begin.
Let MBK Constructors Help You Create a Holiday-Ready Home
MBK Constructors brings design-build coordination and craftsman detail to every project. Our team can help you prioritize remodeling projects around the holiday season, aligning with your budget and vision. We phase work so you see results fast, helping you create a home that feels welcoming and looks beautiful no matter the time of year.
If you are exploring our home remodeling options, we’re ready to help. Start a consultation with MBK Construction and create holiday home upgrades that prepare you for the holidays and elevate your space for the rest of the year.
FAQ Section
Q: How far in advance should I plan a remodel for the holidays?
A: Ideally, start planning 6-9 months before the holidays for major projects. However, some smaller upgrades like fireplace surrounds or built-in shelving can be completed in a few weeks with proper planning.
Q: Are holiday-focused upgrades worth the investment?
A: Absolutely! The best holiday upgrades—like fireplace remodels, improved lighting, and open-concept spaces—enhance your home’s value and enjoyment year-round, not just during the holidays.
Q: What’s the most popular holiday upgrade?
A: Fireplace remodels consistently top the list, as they create a natural focal point for holiday decor and gatherings while also improving your home’s aesthetic and potentially its heating efficiency.
Proper drainage is essential to preventing foundation damage because it directs water away from your home’s foundation, preventing soil saturation, hydrostatic pressure, and the settling or cracking that can lead to costly structural repairs.
Your home’s foundation is its backbone. It literally supports everything above it. Yet it’s all too easy to overlook one of the biggest issues impacting foundations: improper drainage.
For homeowners in Michigan, where freeze-thaw cycles and heavy rainfall are common, understanding how to prevent foundation damage is essential. MBK Constructors knows that properly designed and maintained drainage systems can be the difference between a solid foundation and costly repairs.
Managing water around your home may not seem glamorous, but it’s one of the smartest investments you can make in protecting your property.
How water causes foundation damage
When water collects near your foundation, it seeps into the soil, increasing hydrostatic pressure. Over time, this pressure pushes against foundation walls, causing cracks, leaks, and even structural shifting. Left unchecked, that moisture can also lead to basement water problems, mold growth, and damage to flooring or drywall.
The role of soil expansion and contraction
Michigan’s clay-rich soils are particularly prone to expansion when wet and contraction when dry. As these cycles repeat, the constant movement stresses foundation walls and footings. Proper drainage systems relieve that stress by keeping soil moisture levels consistent year-round.
The cost of ignoring drainage problems
Ignoring a drainage issue might not seem like a big deal—until the repair bills arrive. Foundation repair in Ann Arbor, Michigan, can range from minor crack sealing to extensive wall stabilization. Addressing the root cause early through proper drainage for foundations is far more cost-effective than dealing with the aftermath.
What are the warning signs of poor drainage?
Drainage issues don’t always announce themselves with a flood. Often, the earliest signs are subtle, but they can be easy to spot once you know what to look for.
Water pooling near the foundation
After the rain stops, take a walk around your home. If you see puddles near the base or along walkways, your yard likely slopes toward the house instead of away from it. This allows water to collect and seep downward, gradually undermining the foundation.
Basement moisture or flooding
Damp walls, a musty smell, or visible water on the basement floor all point to inadequate drainage. Persistent moisture can weaken materials, promote mold, and create long-term basement water problems.
Cracks in foundation walls or floors
Hairline cracks may appear harmless, but they’re often early signs of movement or water infiltration. Horizontal cracks are particularly concerning, as they indicate pressure pushing against the wall from saturated soil.
Doors and windows that stick or don’t close properly
When a foundation shifts, even slightly, door and window frames can become misaligned. If you notice gaps or sticking that wasn’t there before, it may signal uneven settlement caused by excess water.
Soil erosion around the foundation
Eroding soil exposes the base of your home, reducing support and increasing the risk of water intrusion. You may notice exposed roots, uneven landscaping, or a sinking feeling underfoot near the foundation.
What drainage solutions can protect your foundation?
Effective drainage starts with a plan tailored to your property’s unique conditions. MBK Constructors designs comprehensive foundation drainage solutions that address both surface water and groundwater to keep your home dry and stable.
Proper grading and slope away from the house
The ground around your home should slope away at least six inches over the first ten feet. Proper grading like this directs water outward instead of allowing it to collect against the foundation. Our excavation team reshapes and compacts soil to achieve ideal slope and drainage patterns.
Gutters, downspouts, and extensions
Gutters are crucial in preventing foundation damage by diverting rainwater away from your home. Downspouts should extend at least six feet away from the foundation, with extensions or splash blocks to keep runoff draining correctly. MBK often installs downspout extensions for a cleaner look and more reliable performance.
French drains and perimeter drainage systems
French drains are gravel-filled trenches with a perforated pipe inside. They collect and redirect groundwater before it reaches your foundation. For homes with persistent moisture issues, perimeter drains or drain tiles can be installed around the foundation’s base to intercept and carry water away safely.
Sump pumps for basement water management
A properly installed sump pump collects and removes groundwater that accumulates beneath your basement floor. Regular maintenance, including annual testing and backup power systems, ensures it performs when you need it most. Sump systems are often the first line of defense in Michigan’s wet seasons.
Foundation waterproofing
Exterior waterproofing membranes or interior sealants prevent water from penetrating the basement walls. Combined with proper drainage for the foundation, these measures provide long-term protection against leaks, cracks, and structural deterioration.
How do you know if your drainage system is working?
Even a well-installed drainage system requires periodic checks to ensure it’s performing as intended.
Conduct a visual inspection after heavy rain
After a downpour, inspect your yard, driveway, and perimeter for standing water. Puddles near your foundation or damp soil indicate that runoff isn’t flowing away effectively.
Check for standing water and soil saturation
If the soil near your foundation feels spongy or waterlogged days after rainfall, your grading or sub-surface drainage system may not be adequate.
Monitor your basement for moisture
Keep an eye on basement humidity levels, wall dampness, and musty odors. A dehumidifier can help, but ongoing moisture points to a larger issue requiring attention.
Schedule a professional foundation inspection
A qualified expert can assess grading, gutters, sump systems, and foundation conditions. At MBK Constructors, our inspection process identifies both visible issues and hidden risks, ensuring your home stays dry from the ground up.
When should you call a professional?
Some drainage issues can be handled with simple fixes, but others demand professional evaluation and repair.
Signs that require immediate attention
If you notice:
Foundation cracks getting wider
Recurring basement flooding
Significant soil erosion
It’s time to contact a professional. Water pressure against a weakened wall can escalate quickly, threatening the stability of the entire structure.
The value of early intervention
Early repairs not only prevent further damage but also protect your investment. By resolving drainage issues promptly, homeowners avoid extensive foundation repair in Ann Arbor, Michigan, saving thousands in long-term costs.
What to expect from a foundation inspection
During an MBK inspection, our team evaluates the full drainage system. We look at everything from the grading to the gutters to the interior waterproofing. We document our findings, recommend solutions, and provide transparent estimates so you can make an informed decision about how you want to protect your home from foundation damage.
Why MBK Constructors is Your Trusted Partner for Foundation and Drainage Solutions
For over three decades, MBK Constructors has served homeowners in and around Ann Arbor with expert foundation and drainage services. Our experience in excavation, waterproofing, and foundation repair makes us uniquely qualified to identify and resolve what’s causing your water-related foundation issues.
If you’ve noticed signs like cracks or uneven settlement, don’t wait until the spring thaw makes things worse. Let the MBK crew inspect your property and develop lasting, tailored solutions for your home. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how proper drainage can keep your home safe, stable, and dry for many years to come.
FAQS
Q: Can I fix drainage problems myself?
A: Some minor improvements, like extending downspouts or regrading small areas, can be DIY projects, but significant drainage issues or foundation concerns should be evaluated by a professional to ensure proper solutions.
Q: How much does it cost to fix foundation drainage problems?
A: Costs vary widely depending on the severity and scope of the problem. Simple solutions like downspout extensions may cost a few hundred dollars, while comprehensive drainage systems or foundation repairs can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.
Q: Are drainage problems common in Ann Arbor?
A: Yes, Michigan’s clay-heavy soil and freeze-thaw cycles make proper drainage especially important for Ann Arbor homes. Many older homes were built before modern drainage standards, making upgrades beneficial.
Making every room in your home more accessible involves incorporating universal design principles like zero-threshold entries, wider doorways, lever-style hardware, and strategically placed grab bars—modifications that enhance safety and independence while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Accessible home remodeling can help you create spaces that are comfortable and practical without taking away from the character of your home. MBK Constructors specializes in remodeling projects that marry accessibility with aesthetics in every room of your home. Learn more about how to make each room in your home, from the kitchen to the bathroom and beyond, more functional for people of all ages and abilities.
Universal design is a set of design principles that creates environments suitable for everyone, regardless of their age, size, or physical ability. It goes beyond meeting minimum requirements and creates an environment that’s safe and comfortable for all people.
The difference between universal design and ADA compliance
Many people think that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) establishes the rules of accessibility design. The truth is, though, that the ADA set minimum standard commercial guidelines. Universal design projects go further by combining practical accessibility with thoughtful, beautiful design. Instead of creating clinical spaces, universal design can help create homes that look elegant while still being functional for every person in the space.
Benefits of planning for accessibility early
Planning aging in place renovations before there is an immediate need can save you time and money—not to mention stress. Early planning allows you to make subtle upgrades, like wider doorways or curbless showers, during other home renovations instead of being forced to do them when they are an absolute necessity.
How universal design increases home value
Homes built or remodeled with universal design in mind appeal to a wider range of buyers. Features such as open layouts, barrier-free entries, and improved lighting enhance not just usability but resale value. In a city known for its historic homes, universal design in Ann Arbor helps ensure your property stands out for the right reasons.
How can you make your bathroom more accessible?
Bathrooms are often the first place homeowners start when considering how to make every room more accessible. There is a good reason for that: A CDC report found that the bathroom is the most dangerous room in the home for seniors. Safety and privacy are key, and small design choices you make here can have a big impact on both.
Walk-in or roll-in showers with zero-threshold entry
Replacing a traditional tub with a walk-in or roll-in shower eliminates tripping hazards and allows easy entry for wheelchair users. MBK designs zero-threshold showers that feel spacious and modern, using slip-resistant tile and sleep glass enclosures to maintain an upscale aesthetic.
Grab bars and safety features that blend with design
Grab bars don’t have to be ugly add-ons. Today’s grab bars come in attractive finishes like brushed nickel or matte black. They can often double as towel rails. When strategically placed, they add safety to the bathroom without looking institutional. They can be one of the most effective accessible bathroom remodel strategies when you need both function and style.
Comfort-height toilets and accessible vanities
Comfort-height toilets and open-bottom vanities make it easier for individuals with limited mobility or those using mobility aids to access these fixtures. MBK integrates them into universal design bathrooms so the design feels intentional and not as an accessibility afterthought.
Non-slip flooring and proper lighting
Safety starts from the ground up. Non-slip flooring, proper drainage, and layered lighting (including motion sensors and dimmable lights) improve visibility and prevent accidents. These upgrades can make it easier to stay independent in your own home as you get older.
What accessibility features work best in kitchens?
Kitchens are the heart of the home; it’s a fact. But they can also be a challenge if you have limited mobility. The goal of a wheelchair accessible kitchen is to keep everything within reach while maintaining efficiency and design harmony.
Adjustable-height countertops and work surfaces
Adjustable or varied counter height makes food prep easier for seated users. MBK’s remodeling team designs multi-level surfaces that blend seamlessly with cabinetry and finishes, so accessibility never compromises beauty.
Pull-out shelves and accessible storage solutions
Deep cabinets can be difficult to reach, even for fully mobile homeowners. Pull out drawers, lazy Susans, and open shelving keep everything within sight and in reach. These features are common in accessible home remodeling projects and add convenience for everyone.
Lever-style faucets and easy-to-use appliances
Lever-style faucets, touchless controls, and side-opening ovens make kitchen tasks easier for individuals with arthritis or limited strength. Selecting appliances with front-mounted controls and minimal bending improves usability without massively changing the layout.
Open floor plans and wider walkways
A clear, open kitchen layout is great for flow and safety. Aisles should be at least 42 inches wide to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers comfortably. This approach creates kitchens that are welcoming and inclusive. They are the kind of space people want to be in during family gatherings.
How do you improve accessibility in bedrooms and living spaces?
Bedrooms and living areas should provide comfort day and night. Small changes can make these rooms easier to navigate and more enjoyable for those using them.
Wider doorways and hallways
Expanding doorways to at least 36 inches accommodates mobility aids and improves traffic flow. In older Ann Arbor homes, MBK often integrates wider trim or pocket doors to preserve architectural character while meeting accessibility needs.
Lever-style door handles and rocker light switches
Lever handles and rocker switches are easier to operate than knobs and toggles. They can be a big help to those with reduced manual dexterity. These changes are subtle and cost-effective.
Accessible closet systems
Custom closet systems with adjustable rods, pull-down shelving, and full-extension drawers keep clothing and other items easy to reach. These updates can improve everyday comfort without a full remodel.
Proper lighting and contrast for visibility
Layered lighting and visual contrast between walls, floors, and trim can help reduce the risk of falls and improve navigation in the home. Thoughtful lighting design makes the space safer while also adding warmth and style.
What should you consider for entryways and transitions?
A truly accessible home remodel considers every transition point, even entries. Safety, ease of access, and weather protection are all key.
Ramps and zero-threshold entries
Eliminating steps at main entrances with gently sloped ramps or flush thresholds ensures safe, seamless entry. MBK designs these transitions to blend with the home’s exterior, using materials that complement the architecture.
Covered entryways for weather protection
Michigan winters can be harsh. Covered porches or canopies keep entry points dry and reduce the risk of slipping on ice or snow. These upgrades also extend the life of doors and finishes by shielding them from moisture.
Proper lighting for safety
Motion-sensor lighting near entryways and along walkways increases visibility and security. Low-voltage fixtures and LED options are energy-efficient ways to make your home more welcoming.
Accessible doorbells and entry systems
Video doorbells, keyless entry pads, and smart locks allow residents to see who’s at the door and unlock it remotely. These features add both convenience and safety for homeowners planning to age in place.
Why MBK Constructors is Your Partner for Accessible Remodeling
The MBK Constructors team specializes in designing and building accessible homes using universal design principles. Our team’s experience with older homes in the Ann Arbor area gives us the expertise needed to upgrade layouts while preserving the home’s architectural integrity and character.
If you are ready to make your home more comfortable and safe for yourself or a loved one, we’d love to talk to you. Contact MBK Constructors today to schedule an accessible design remodel consultation. We’ll show you how thoughtful design can make every room of your home more accessible and more beautiful.
FAQs
Q: Does accessible design have to look institutional?
A: Not at all. Modern universal design features blend seamlessly with any aesthetic, from traditional to contemporary, while providing enhanced safety and functionality.
Q: How much does it cost to make a home more accessible?
A: Costs vary widely depending on the scope of modifications. Simple changes like lever handles and grab bars are relatively inexpensive, while full bathroom or kitchen remodels require larger investments. A design-build consultation can help you prioritize based on your budget.
Q: Should I make accessibility changes now or wait until I need them?
A: If you’re already planning a remodel, it’s wise to incorporate universal design features now. It’s more cost-effective than retrofitting later, and these features benefit people of all ages and abilities
