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
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.
Why Late Summer Is Ideal for Starting Major Home Projects
If you’ve been dreaming about opening up your floor plan, remodeling your outdated kitchen, or adding a much-needed bathroom, timing is everything. In a region like Ann Arbor, where seasons affect everything from permits to contractor availability, timing a renovation can matter as much as the renovation itself.
In Ann Arbor, the question comes up often: when’s the best time to renovate? With three decades of design-build experience, we can say with confidence—it’s late summer. In this article, we’ll explore a few of the strategic factors that make this slim timeframe the best time for home renovation—and a few ideas for your next project.
If you’ve lived in Michigan long enough, you know that our seasons can be as unpredictable as they are beautiful. Renovation projects that involve excavation, structural work, or even window installation can be severely impacted by weather conditions. Planning your renovation around the local calendar is key to avoiding costly delays and securing your preferred contractor.
Late summer—especially the window from mid-August through early September—offers a unique sweet spot between peak construction activity and early fall preparation season. This timing takes advantage of Michigan’s most stable weather period while positioning your project ahead of the typical fall rush.
5 Reasons Late Summer is the Best Time for Home Renovation in Ann Arbor
1. Stable Weather Supports Exterior and Structural Work
By late summer, Michigan has typically settled into more consistent, dry conditions. The soil is warm, the risk of spring flooding has passed, and contractors can perform excavation or framing without frequent weather delays. This makes it a great time to begin additions, foundation upgrades, or whole-home remodels that need exterior access.
2. Getting Ahead of the Autumn Rush
Most homeowners begin thinking about remodeling projects in the fall—especially once school starts or the holidays are on the horizon. But by that time, the best contractors may already be booked. Starting your project in late summer puts you just a little bit ahead of the demand curve and secures your place on the calendar before schedules fill up.
3. Easier Permit Approvals and Inspections
Local building departments often experience slower processing times in midsummer. This is due to vacation schedules and reduced staffing. However, many municipal offices pick up speed again in August. Staff returns, and preparation begins for the busy fall season.
Starting your project later in the summer often means faster turnaround on permits and inspections. This is especially important for major renovations and design-build projects requiring multiple sign-offs.
4. More Livable Conditions During Renovation
Renovating while continuing to live in your home can be one of the most stressful aspects of any major project. Tackling renovations during the late summer allows you to take full advantage of Michigan’s pleasant weather conditions—think backyard patio dinners during kitchen renovations or open windows during drywall work. You’re less dependent on your HVAC system and more likely to keep dust and disruption at bay.
5. Project Completion Before Winter Holidays
One of the most compelling benefits of starting a renovation in late summer is the realistic potential to finish before winter weather arrives and holiday entertaining begins. This timing is particularly valuable for kitchen renovations and any other projects that may affect critical entertaining spaces.
Whether you’re working on a kitchen refresh, a basement overhaul, or a substantial addition, getting started now improves your chances of enjoying the new space by Thanksgiving or the December holidays—without having to host guests amid the chaos of construction.
What Should You Tackle This Time of Year?
Late summer timing is particularly well-suited for several types of major renovation projects, including:
Kitchen and main-floor remodels benefit from the stable weather for any exterior work (like expanding openings for larger windows or patio doors) and the comfortable conditions for indoor work. The moderate temperatures make it easier to work around temporarily displaced appliances and cooking arrangements.
Basement renovations with egress installation take advantage of the dry soil conditions ideal for excavation work, while the comfortable temperatures make the often-challenging basement work environment more manageable.
Structural repairs and foundation improvements are best tackled when soil conditions are stable and dry, making the late summer the best time for home renovation projects involving foundation work, basement waterproofing, and structural reinforcement projects.
Demolish-and-rebuild projects like our signature Ann Arbor lot rebuilds benefit from having a full construction season ahead, allowing for foundation work, framing, and exterior completion before winter weather arrives.
If you’re still in the early planning and design stages, late summer is also an ideal time to schedule design consultations, finalize floor plans, select materials, and complete permit applications. This preparation work can be completed during the pleasant late summer weather, positioning your project to begin construction as soon as conditions are optimal.
MBK: Local Renovation Experts Through Any Season
With 30+ years of remodeling experience in the greater Ann Arbor area, MBK Constructors helps homeowners plan and complete projects in step with Michigan’s building seasons—so each phase runs smoothly, stays on schedule, and delivers the space you’ve been envisioning.
Through our design-build approach, we’ve helped homeowners in Ann Arbor, Dexter, Brighton, Chelsea, and beyond transform their living spaces—maximizing timing, budget, and long-term value. Whether you’re envisioning a complete home reimagining or exploring what’s possible on your property, we guide you through each step with clarity and expertise.
If you’ve been waiting to make some big changes to your home, consider this your sign—late summer is the best time for home renovation in our region. Let’s talk about your renovation goals—book a free design-build consultation with MBK’s experts.
