Winter is actually an ideal time for indoor remodeling projects like basement finishing, kitchen renovations, and bathroom updates, as contractors often have more availability and can focus on interior work without weather delays.
At MBK Constructors, we’ve found that winter isn’t the time to slow down; it’s time for a big opportunity. Here’s why the colder season is the perfect time for Ann Arbor home remodeling, and which projects could make the biggest impact on your home.
While most people think of spring and summer as the prime remodeling seasons, winter can actually offer unique advantages for interior projects. Shorter days and colder weather create a great opportunity to focus on your home’s interior comfort and functionality. With less demand for outdoor work, contractors can devote more time and attention to indoor renovations.
Greater contractor availability and scheduling flexibility
During peak seasons like spring and summer, contractors are often booked months in advance with outdoor construction and renovation work. Winter, however, can open up scheduling flexibility. That could mean faster project starts and shorter wait times for homeowners. Crews are less likely to be split across multiple projects, too.
Less disruption to outdoor living spaces
Taking on a remodel when your yard and patio are covered in snow means your day-to-day outdoor life won’t be interrupted. It’s the perfect time to focus on the inside, especially spaces that are underused, like the basement. Everything will be ready when warm weather returns.
Potential for better pricing and faster timelines
Because demand is often lower in winter, some material suppliers and subcontractors offer better pricing or faster turnaround times. Homeowners can take advantage of this, saving time and money while getting the same MBK quality craftsmanship.
Prepare your home for spring and summer entertaining
Completing winter home improvement projects sets you up for success when the nicer weather returns. Imagine unveiling a finished basement or a refreshed kitchen as friends and family come around for warm-weather gatherings. By planning ahead, you get to enjoy your upgrades when you’ll end up using them the most.
What are the best indoor remodeling projects for winter?
When temperatures dip, indoor spaces become the heart of the home. That makes them the smart investment for comfort and functionality. Winter is a great time to focus on the spaces that will enhance your daily living experience. Here are some of the winter remodeling projects with the biggest impact on homeowners in Ann Arbor.
Basement finishing and remodeling
Basements are one of the most popular winter remodeling projects for good reason. Since these areas are fully enclosed, they’re ideal for construction during colder months.
A basement finishing Ann Arbor project can transform a dark, unused space into something functional and inviting. Consider making your basement a:
Home office
Media room
Guest suite
Workout area
MBK frequently installs egress windows for safety and natural light, upgrades insulation to improve comfort, and finishes walls and ceilings to make the space feel like a true extension of your home.
For historic or older Ann Arbor homes, basement remodeling also provides the opportunity to address structural and moisture issues while adding modern amenities.
Kitchen renovations
If your kitchen is due for an upgrade, winter is an excellent time to get started. MBK’s design-build team can reconfigure layouts, update cabinetry, install new flooring, and improve lighting without impacting your daily routines outside the home.
By tackling a kitchen renovation in the off-season, you’ll be ready to entertain and enjoy a refreshed space by the time summer arrives. Plus, doing interior work in winter helps minimize the dust and debris that can accompany projects when windows are open in warmer months.
Bathroom updates and accessibility improvements
Bathrooms are another perfect winter remodel. Compact spaces allow for faster turnarounds, and upgrades like new tile, plumbing fixtures, and lighting can be completed efficiently in colder weather.
This is also the right season to plan accessibility improvements such as curbless showers, grab bars, or wider doorways. These features enhance comfort and safety for many years into the future. MBK Constructors specializes in aging-in-place remodeling, helping Ann Arbor homeowners future-proof their spaces while maintaining beautiful design.
Whole-home interior updates
Even if a major remodel isn’t in your plans, smaller indoor upgrades can dramatically improve your home’s look and feel. Projects like flooring replacement, interior painting, trim carpentry, or lighting upgrades are some of the best indoor projects for cold months.
Winter’s dry air helps paint cure faster, and since you’re spending more time indoors, these enhancements make your space more enjoyable through the season.
How do you plan a successful winter remodeling project?
Planning is the foundation of every successful remodel—especially in the winter months. Before work begins, a few key steps can help ensure your project runs smoothly and stays on schedule.
Start planning early
Although winter is less busy for most contractors, early planning is still key. Ideally, homeowners should start project discussions in the fall. You’ll want to finalize designs, select materials, and secure permits before the holidays. That way, work can begin right after the new year without delays.
Work with a design-build contractor for streamlined execution
Choosing a design-build firm like MBK streamlines your project from start to finish. Our integrated approach combines design, architecture, and construction under one roof, ensuring a smoother process and fewer surprises. For Ann Arbor home remodeling, this approach is especially valuable because it keeps projects on schedule through Michigan’s unpredictable winter weather.
Discuss dust control and home cleanliness expectations
One concern many homeowners have during winter remodeling is cleanliness, especially when doors and windows can’t be left open. MBK takes a stewardship approach to every project, using dust barriers, negative air machines, and daily cleanup routines to keep your home safe and livable throughout construction.
Plan for heating and ventilation during construction
Basement or bathroom work may require temporary heating or ventilation adjustments. Our crews manage this carefully, maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures while ensuring safe airflow during activities like sanding or painting.
What should you expect during a winter remodel?
Even with the right plan in place, homeowners often wonder what it’s really like to remodel during Michigan’s coldest months. Experienced contractors like MBK Constructors are fully equipped to manage the unique challenges that come with winter construction. They know how to keep your home comfortable and protect it from start to finish.
How contractors manage cold-weather challenges
Winter remodeling requires specific expertise. Our team uses specialized materials and planning strategies to manage temperature-sensitive installations like drywall, flooring, and paint. We also monitor humidity levels and ensure adequate curing and drying time, so every finish holds up beautifully long term.
Keeping your home comfortable during construction
Maintaining warmth and cleanliness is a top priority. We isolate work areas, protect flooring, and use temporary walls to separate construction from living spaces. Communication is ongoing, so you always know what to expect and how to prepare for each phase of the project.
Timeline expectations for winter projects
In many cases, winter projects move faster than those in spring or summer. There’s less competition for subcontractors, fewer weather delays, and streamlined scheduling.
Why Choose MBK Constructors for Your Winter Remodeling Project
MBK Constructors has been remodeling Ann Arbor homes year-round for more than three decades. Our team understands how to navigate Michigan’s cold-weather conditions while maintaining the comfort and safety of your home.
Homeowners trust us because we understand this region. We know its architecture, building codes, and the unique challenges of working on historic homes. We bring precision and expertise to every project.
If you’ve been considering winter home improvements, now is a great time to start. Contact MBK Constructors today to discuss your project and schedule a design-build consultation with our team.
FAQ Section
Q: Do contactors work during winter in Michigan?
A: Yes! Winter is an excellent time for indoor remodeling projects. Experienced contractors like MBK Constructors work year-round and often have better availability during the winter months.
Q: Will a winter remodel make my home cold?
A: A professional contractor will take steps to maintain your home’s temperature, including using temporary barriers, managing door openings, and ensuring proper heating in work areas.
Q: Are winter remodeling projects more expensive?
A: Not necessarily. In fact, you may find better pricing and availability during the winter months when demand is typically lower than in spring and summer.
MBK Constructors was honored to have one of our remodeling projects featured in the BRAG Ann Arbor Home Tour, hosted by the Builders & Remodelers Association of Greater Ann Arbor. This annual event brings together top local talent in design, building, and renovation, celebrating the care that defines our region’s homes. Being showcased on the 2025 tour gave our team the chance to share our commitment to quality craftsmanship and design-build excellence in the Ann Arbor community.
The BRAG Ann Arbor Home Tour (organized by the Builders & Remodelers Association of Greater Ann Arbor) is a celebrated showcase of remodeled and newly constructed homes in the greater Ann Arbor region, offering homeowners a firsthand look at top-tier work by local professionals.
An annual showcase of exceptional remodeling and new construction
Each year, the event features several remodeled or newly constructed homes. The 2025 Remodelers Home Tour highlighted 11 beautifully remodeled homes in Ann Arbor, including our highlighted project on Brockman Avenue. The homes were open to the public for two days.
Why BRAG matters to homeowners looking for trusted contractors
For homeowners, the BRAG Ann Arbor Home Tour isn’t just a chance to see stunning renovations. It’s a way to identify reputable, skilled professionals who have proven their work in a public setting. Every home featured in the BRAG home tour undergoes a rigorous selection process, showcasing builders and remodelers who uphold the highest standards of craftsmanship, transparency, and customer care. When you tour homes like MBK’s featured project, you get to see firsthand what quality remodeling looks like and gain confidence in choosing a contractor who delivers on their promises.
What made our featured project special?
When one of our own remodels is selected for the BRAG home tour, it’s a signal that we’re doing work we truly believe in. This project spoke to our expertise in historic home remodeling in Ann Arbor and beyond.
The scope of the remodel
For the tour, our project at 3025 Brockman included a whole-house remodel plus an addition of a primary suite. The homeowner wanted to upgrade their living spaces, incorporating modern systems and improving the flow of the home, while respecting the property’s original character.
Design challenges we overcame
Because many Ann Arbor homes are older, we frequently encounter issues like uneven floors, outdated mechanical systems, and restrictive layouts. Some properties may also have preservation constraints.
In this project, however, the challenge was essentially this: make a modern addition feel like it was part of the original home. We accomplished this by:
Navigating complex structural modifications
Updating plumbing and electrical services
Using finishes that matched and enhanced the home’s original character
How we maintained the home’s character while modernizing
From matching the original moldings and trim to selecting windows and doors that harmonize with the historic neighborhood, our approach honored the home’s heritage. At the same time, we added modern finishes and high-end systems. It became a demonstration of what high-quality home remodeling in Ann Arbor should look like.
What can homeowners learn from this project?
Are you considering a modest update or a whole-home transformation? This project offers several lessons in planning and execution, along with the importance of partnering with the right remodeling team.
The value of early collaboration with architects
We engaged design staff and architects from the start, not just contractors coming in after the fact. By doing this, issues like structural reinforcements, HVAC routing, and historic preservation details were addressed early, avoiding costly surprises. Engaging the architect early is one of the keys to success in historic home remodeling.
How quality materials and craftsmanship create lasting results
In our featured project, we chose high-grade finishes and durable mechanical systems. These higher-quality investments pay off for homeowners in the long run, both visually and functionally, as well as in market value. When homeowners see MBK Constructors projects, they see how quality materials and craftsmanship move a project from good to great.
The importance of stewardship during the remodeling process
Remodeling a historic home demands care. You have to protect existing finishes, maintain safe access, and respect the neighborhood as a whole. Our team treats each project as a stewardship of the homeowner’s investment. We respect the home’s legacy along with the neighborhood’s character. That mindset shows up in our work and is why so many homeowners place their trust in us.
Why MBK Constructors is Your Trusted Ann Arbor Remodeling Partner
When you select MBK Constructors, you benefit from design-build expertise, deep local knowledge, and a commitment to quality and stewardship. With years of experience in historic and older-home remodeling in Ann Arbor and surrounding communities, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities these homes present. Being chosen for the BRAG home tour and delivering a standout project for our client demonstrates that we don’t just talk about excellence, we live it.
If you’re ready to explore historic home remodeling in Ann Arbor or want to see more examples of MBK Constructors projects, we’d love to talk to you. Call us today to schedule your consultation and see how your home can achieve timeless character with modern comforts.
FAQs
Q: What is BRAG Ann Arbor?
A: BRAG (Builders & Remodelers Association of Greater Ann Arbor) is a professional organization that hosts an annual home tour showcasing the best remodeling and construction work in the area.
Q: How does MBK approach historic home remodeling?
A: MBK combines respect for historic character with modern functionality, using our award-winning expertise to preserve architectural details while updating homes for today’s lifestyles.
Q: Can I tour MBK’s work in person?
A: While the BRAG tour is an annual event, we’re happy to share our portfolio and connect you with past clients who can speak to our quality and process. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
The way a home is designed has a big impact on safety and independence as your needs change. For many Southeast Michigan homeowners, especially those in historic properties or multi-level homes, moving the main bedroom suite to the first floor opens up a path to long-term independence without compromising on where you live. A first-floor primary suite can become a haven, helping you anticipate future needs with a space designed for aging-in-place.
Aging-in-place bedroom design is about convenience, sure. But it’s also about prioritizing dignity and personal space. No more worrying about stairs or mobility challenges down the road. With a ground-floor bedroom, privacy remains intact while keeping you close to the heart of the home. It can bring peace of mind for residents as well as their loved ones.
The best first-floor aging-in-place bedrooms are created with the realities of life in mind, for how you live now as well as for how your needs may change in the future. These are core features that create a safe, welcoming first-floor bedroom:
Step-Free Entries and Wide Doorways
Ease of access starts at the entry. Eliminate thresholds at the bedroom entrance for smooth transitions. Widening doorways to 36 inches or more makes them ready for walkers or wheelchairs, if those become part of daily life. Connecting hallways should get similar treatments, with an unbroken flow from the front door through to the bedroom. This can help reduce the risk of falls, a major concern for many seniors and those with mobility issues.
Accessible Ensuite Bathrooms
A ground-floor primary suite shines when it’s accompanied by an accessible ensuite bath. Incorporate features like:
Choose vanity cabinets and sinks that allow both seated and standing use. With these features, you can maintain independence and privacy for many years to come.
Smart Storage and Lighting for Safety
Aging-in-place bedroom storage should be accessible while still being functional. Pull-down rods, shallow dressers, and open shelving give you plenty of options within easy reach. D-shaped pulls and touch-latch hardware make it easy for hands that might be losing strength and dexterity.
Layered lighting plays a big role, too. Bedside controls, nightlights, and illuminated closet interiors keep residents safe at all hours. MBK’s designers routinely recommend low-glare, high-CRI LED fixtures for clear visibility that’s gentle on aging eyes.
Flexible Spaces for Care and Comfort
A future-ready primary suite will consider your long-term needs, too. Plenty of clear floor space will leave room for assistive devices or more in-room seating. A built-in bench or cozy reading nook can transition from a personal retreat to a carer support space if needed. Adjacent flex rooms like home offices, sitting rooms, or spare guest rooms give you space to accommodate hobbies, host family members, or a room for in-home carers. Thoughtful design creates a space that evolves with your needs without further upheaval.
Planning Your Remodel: Steps for Success
Aging-in-place bedroom remodels succeed when they are grounded in thoughtful decision-making and a collaborative process. MBK Constructors guides homeowners every step of the way, so no detail is overlooked in the process.
Assessing Needs Now and for the Future
Every remodel we do starts with an evaluation of your current needs, along with honest planning for what the future may bring. MBK helps homeowners evaluate whether an existing room can be reconfigured or if a well-crafted addition is the best path forward. Walk-throughs identify obstacles and opportunities, like reusing adjacent closets, improving natural light, or connecting a new suite to an outdoor patio area. These insights give you a chance to balance your budgets with your goals, and avoid disruptive upgrades later on.
Working With MBK’s Design-Build Team
MBK’s design-build model makes the communication and scheduling part of a remodel much easier. Homeowners have a single point of contact throughout the process. This person will listen to your concerns, coordinate teams, and update you on progress. It’s a hands-on collaboration that demystifies the remodeling process and keeps client care front and center. Ann Arbor homeowners choose MBK for their blend of technical expertise and genuine commitment to their work.
Is a First-Floor Primary Suite Right for Your Home?
Building a main-floor aging-in-place bedroom is a proactive way of creating comfort and flexibility in your home, whether it’s for yourself or a loved one. Many homeowners begin considering this upgrade as their own needs start to change.
Could it be the right upgrade for your home? Ask yourself:
Are stairs starting to feel inconvenient or challenging in your daily routine?
Do you want to welcome aging relatives into your home, either temporarily or permanently?
Would you benefit from having more privacy while being close to the main living areas of your home?
Are you planning on staying in your home for many years and want to avoid future moves?
Is your current home layout limiting your ability to be independent or enjoy your favorite activities?
Would an accessible suite help you accommodate mobility changes or long-term care needs?
If you answered yes to any of these, adding a main-floor bedroom could make a significant improvement to your home and your daily lifestyle.
The long term benefits go way beyond comfort, too. You’ll be able to better maintain your personal independence as you get older, and remain in the home you love. It could also boost resale value with buyers seeking thoughtfully designed spaces.
Discuss Your Aging-In-Place Needs With a Project Manager
Building an aging-in-place bedroom on the ground floor of your home is an investment in safety and long-term comfort. MBK Constructors is proud to be your trusted partner in the process, offering expertise shaped by decades of local experience and a hands-on approach.
Want to see how we could make aging in place a more comfortable reality in your home? Discuss your project with an MBK project manager today and let’s create a space that feels like home, for all the years ahead.
Many Ann Arbor homeowners find that while their living spaces may be filled with character and charm, they don’t fit today’s needs. To retain that charm while bringing spaces up to date for modern living, you have to make every square foot count. Small space remodels can maximize the comfort and function of a home. The difference between chaos and calm isn’t just about adding more square feet. It’s about making sure every square inch is designed to serve a purpose and support your daily routine.
MBK Constructors knows that even modest homes hold big potential. Drawing from our local expertise and with a passion for finding creative solutions, we guide clients through transforming cramped rooms into open, inviting spaces. By combining clever storage, adaptable layout, and thoughtful finishes, maximizing small space remodels can dramatically improve everyday life without the need for a costly addition.
Every successful small space remodel begins with a conversation about your family’s routines, storage needs, and future plans. Are right kitchens making meal prep stressful? Is a spare bedroom or basement underused most of the year? Clear priorities help ensure that design decisions don’t just look smart, they work smart for how you live.
MBK’s project managers take time to understand your goals and then recommend tailor-made solutions. Collaboration with clients (and in some cases, local architects) brings ideas to life while keeping projects grounded in reality.
Smart Storage Solutions for Maximum Impact
One of the hallmarks of a great small space remodel is seamless, multi-functional storage. This could include:
Built-in cabinetry under stairs or along hallways to declutter playrooms or living spaces without taking up extra floor space.
Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, window seat chests, and banquettes with built-in drawers to put every inch of space to work.
Custom closets with adjustable shelving, shoe organizers, and slide-out hampers to make daily routines effortless and keep bedrooms tidy.
MBK’s in-house carpentry skills shine when it comes to these small space storage solutions. From mudrooms to kitchen pantries, everything is installed with a focus on longevity and aesthetic beauty.
Flexible Layouts and Multi-Use Rooms
Maximizing small spaces through remodeling often means one room doing the job of many, and adjusting as your needs change. Open-concept living and kitchen areas allow light to flow freely and create an illusion of added space. Pocket doors and clever room dividers let homeowners easily transform a shared area into a private retreat or workspace with minimal effort.
Consider a Murphy bed or fold-down desk for guest rooms and home offices. Nesting tables, convertible sofas, and mobile islands offer flexibility for entertaining, hobbies, or movie nights. MBK’s designers partner with clients to find the perfect blend of adaptable furniture and permanent upgrades, so small spaces stay clutter-free and future-proof.
Brightening Spaces with Light and Color
Natural light is a powerful tool for small spaces. Enlarging windows, adding transoms, or installing energy-efficient glass doors brings sunlight deep into the darkest corners of a home. When windows are limited, smart lighting design can make a room feel bigger and brighter.
Selecting finishes in airy hues and smooth, clean lines creates visual harmony in a space and draws the eye outward. Flooring that continues seamlessly from room to room supports an uninterrupted sense of flow. We know all the design hacks to make your space feel bigger without actually adding a single inch to your space.
Streamlined Kitchens and Efficient Baths
Kitchens and bathrooms are often the most challenging—and rewarding—areas to transform. A kitchen remodel or adding a bathroom can change how you use your home, making it more functional. Maximizing these small spaces can even boost your resale value later on. Some strategies for these areas can include:
Slim, pull-out pantries and overhead pot racks for kitchens.
Compact appliances with full-sized capabilities.
Wall-mounted sinks and floating vanities that reveal floor space.
Recessed shelving, medicine cabinets, and towel niches for easy storage.
MBK Constructors takes every opportunity to blend convenience with quality craftsmanship, paying attention to the nuances that make a busy morning or relaxing evening more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Space Remodeling
How long does a typical small space remodel take?
Project timelines vary based on the scope and complexity of the remodel, but most small space updates can be completed in a few weeks. MBK’s project management team provides a detailed schedule up front to keep you updated every step of the way to minimize surprises and keep life running smoothly.
Can you work with unusual layouts or older homes?
Absolutely. MBK specializes in maximizing small space remodels in homes of all ages and styles, including historic properties and homes with unique floor plans. Our design-build team thrives on creative problem-solving. They can help make unconventional spaces more functional and beautiful.
Will my family need to move out during the remodel?
In most cases, clients can remain at home during a small space remodel. MBK’s respectful crews maintain safe, clean work environments and coordinate schedules to limit disruption as much as possible. If larger structural work is needed, the team helps plan for temporary adjustments and will keep you informed every step of the way.
How much should I budget for a small space remodel?
Costs depend on material choices, level of customization, and project size. MBK works with clients to explore options that fit both their goals and investment, providing transparent estimates and guidance on where to prioritize spending for maximum impact and value.
Is a small space remodel a worthy long-term investment?
MBK’s approach to transforming small spaces is about creating long-term solutions. Our team advises on organizing systems, storage tools, and furniture layouts that help maintain a clutter-free, efficient space long after the project is complete. These solutions will appeal to future homeowners, too, and could make your home even more appealing to potential buyers if you ever decide to sell it.
The MBK Advantage: Local Knowledge, Personalized Care
Clients across Ann Arbor and Southeast Michigan trust MBK for maximizing small space remodels because our team brings both technical expertise and neighborly care to every project. It starts with an in-depth walkthrough that identifies obstacles and possibilities before moving to design plans rooted in practicality and style.
Our tight-knit in-house crew and trusted local subcontractors handle even the trickiest details, minimizing disruption and protecting your home at every stage. Whether you’re reimagining a historic residence or seeking to modernize a growing family’s footprint, we’re committed to creating high-value solutions with every detail complete.
Schedule Your Free Design-Build Consultation
Your beautiful home doesn’t have to feel cramped. We can help you make it work for your lifestyle while retaining its charm. Let MBK Constructors help find the bright, inviting, and organized spaces hidden within your current footprint.
The safety, comfort, and independence of loved ones are at the heart of every aging-in-place remodeling decision. Wheelchair-accessible remodeling helps families create homes that adapt to real needs without compromising on style, dignity, or daily enjoyment. For southeast Michigan homeowners, especially as family members age or mobility circumstances change, proactive home modifications offer the assurance that everyone can fully enjoy every room in the house.
A well-planned approach to wheelchair accessible remodeling safeguards health and peace of mind. Inaccessible thresholds and narrow doorways can create frustrating obstacles as well as safety hazards, while cramped bathrooms and kitchens often mean daily routines are needlessly stressful. Investing in thoughtful, expert-led design ensures homes stay welcoming and functional for everyone.
MBK Constructors brings a commitment to quality and value to every aging-in-place remodeling project. Learn more about our process and how it could help update your own or a loved one’s home.
Key Features of Wheelchair Accessible Home Modifications
Transforming a home for accessibility involves more than adding grab bars or ramps. From the first conversation, experienced remodelers guide clients through updating every key area with care and foresight.
Some key features will shape the outcome of a successful wheelchair accessible remodeling project:
Entryways and Doorways: Widening and Smoothing Transitions
A welcoming, barrier-free entrance sets the stage for accessibility. Aim to create at least one step-free, gently sloped entry with a wide, weather-protected door. Replacing thresholds with low-or zero-clearance models allows easier wheelchair and walker movement. Indoors, widening doorways to a minimum of 36 inches gives confidence that all spaces are truly accessible, including bathrooms, bedrooms, and kitchens. Strategic lever handles and smart locks can make entry points simpler and friendlier for all abilities.
Accessible Kitchens and Bathrooms: Safety and Usability
Kitchens and bathrooms are the heart of any wheelchair accessible remodeling project. Pull-out or adjustable-height countertops and sinks offer flexibility for seated and standing family members. Prioritize open floor plans with generous turning radii (at least 60 inches in kitchens and baths) to support easy maneuvering.
In bathrooms, curbless showers, sturdy grab bars, and handheld showerheads keep daily routines safe and comfortable. Consider wall-mounted sinks, under-counter knee space, and non-slip flooring throughout.
Accessible cabinetry and storage—not too high, not too low—are essential for independence. Touch-latch hardware, D-shaped pulls, and pull-out shelves turn daily tasks into smooth, effortless experiences. MBK’s design-build approach always factors in these user-friendly upgrades for the aging-in-place community and families with evolving needs.
Flooring, Lighting, and Smart Tech Upgrades
Non-slip, low-pile flooring provides a stable footing and supports easier rolling. Choose materials that are both easy to maintain and resistant to slips, such as luxury vinyl, rubber, or textured ceramic tiles.
Lighting is another major contributor to both safety and comfort. Consider using:
Glare-free LEDs
Motion sensors
Lighted switches
These can help reduce fall risks and make nighttime movement safer.
Look at adding smart home technology such as voice-activated controls for lights and thermostats, security systems with remote access, or automated blinds. These devices offer greater convenience and accessibility without sacrificing style.
Storage and Furniture Designed for Mobility
Proper storage layout is fundamental for accessible homes. Lowered shelves, pull-out organizers, and accessible pantries mean essentials are always within easy reach. Choose furniture with open bases, rounded corners, and a stable profile to maximize maneuverability for wheelchairs and walkers. Place seating areas with clear routes and open sightlines to encourage connection and ease.
Planning Your Remodel: Steps for Success
Embarking on wheelchair accessible remodeling demands both technical know-how and an understanding of daily living. These practical steps provide a clear path for a seamless, successful remodel:
Assessing Your Home’s Current Accessibility
Start by evaluating where accessibility barriers currently exist. Move through the house and take note of any tight spaces, abrupt floor transitions, or hard-to-reach storage. Professional accessibility assessments offer insights that go beyond what’s immediately visible, addressing structural supports, lighting, and even acoustics.
Collaborating with Experienced Design-Build Teams
A design-build approach, where one team manages the entire remodeling process from initial sketch to final punch list, streamlines communication and ensures accountability. MBK Constructors partners closely with each homeowner and, when needed, a licensed architect to balance safety, function, and aesthetic preferences at every step. Trusted local trades bring additional expertise to challenging spaces, and the in-house team keeps projects on schedule, on budget, and aligned with the homeowner’s vision.
Navigating Local Codes and Safety Requirements
Wheelchair accessible remodeling always includes careful attention to building codes, permitting, and safety standards, especially as requirements can differ by locality. From egress windows in basements to bathroom grab bar placement or minimum hallway widths, expertise in local codes is essential. MBK’s longstanding relationships with local officials and deep understanding of Ann Arbor area properties provide peace of mind that every modification is compliant as well as beautiful.
Why Choose MBK Constructors for Accessibility and Aging in Place
Local families deserve a remodeling partner who goes beyond basic compliance to deliver value, comfort, and lasting stewardship. MBK Constructors brings decades of experience, a caring and solution-focused attitude, and a deep understanding of both the technical and personal dimensions of wheelchair accessible remodeling.
From Ann Arbor to Brighton, clients turn to MBK for accessibility modifications because the team completes what others may not and always treats each home with respect and care. Award-winning historic renovations, multiple builder licenses, and continuing education in accessibility standards all reflect the team’s ongoing commitment to client satisfaction and safety.
Clients can expect proactive communication, professional project management, and a genuine investment in the happiness and independence of their families.
Explore Aging in Place Solutions
Home modifications are an investment in comfort, safety, and everyday joy for all ages and abilities. MBK Constructors is proud to help homeowners in southeast Michigan thrive and stay independent at home.
Learn more about the options and innovations available for wheelchair accessible remodeling by visiting our Aging in Place service page.
