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.
For homeowners lucky enough to live in one of Ann Arbor’s historic neighborhoods, your home has a rare opportunity to experience the continuity between past and present. Many residences hold a unique blend of architectural detail, generational memory, and irreplaceable charm. But charm alone can’t keep the pipes from leaking or the electrical up to code—which is why Ann Arbor residents often seek out historic home renovation.
Historic home renovation in Ann Arbor represents a delicate balancing act. From the craftsman bungalows near Burns Park to the stately brick homes of Old West Side, homeowners want to preserve history while integrating the modern luxuries of functional kitchens, energy efficiency, and smart home systems.
Over our years in local construction, we’ve seen countless homeowners grapple with the question of how to maintain the soul of a historic home without allowing it to fall into disrepair. The answer is a thoughtful, professional approach to renovation. Here’s what you need to know.
Owning a historic home is both a privilege and a responsibility. The woodwork, the original windows, the slate roofs—these are no longer mere aesthetic choices, but longstanding testaments to the craftsmanship of another era. For all their beauty, however, older homes often fall short of today’s expectations in terms of functionality, safety, and efficiency. Historic home renovation gives you the chance to:
Bring infrastructure up to modern code without disrupting the architectural integrity of the original design
Improve energy efficiency and lower costs through upgraded insulation, HVAC systems, and window restoration
Reconfigure interior spaces for open layouts, natural light, and today’s lifestyle preferences
Preserve long-term value by ensuring the home is comfortable, safe, and appealing to future buyers
Create a personalized space that still honors the past while embracing what the modern era has to offer
Historic homes are worth the effort, but that effort requires expertise. You need a builder who understands how to blend old and new—someone who won’t suggest a shortcut like vinyl siding just because it’s easier.
Historic Home Renovation: 5 Ways to Renovate With Respect
1. Respect the Bones
Before drawing up plans, understand what makes your home historically significant. Is it the exterior facade? The trim work? The layout or materials? In many cases, features like windows, porches, and rooflines are tell-tale signs of a home’s historical value—and altering them may require approval from a local historic district commission.
Here’s a pro tip: Work with a design-build team that knows Ann Arbor’s local ordinances and can navigate approvals efficiently without compromising your vision. That’s how you get the best out of your project—both for your comfort and the home’s historical integrity.
2. Update Infrastructure Invisibly
While it may seem less exciting, one of the wisest ways to modernize and preserve a historic home into the future is to invest in what you don’t see but most certainly use: plumbing, electrical, insulation, and HVAC. These updates drastically improve comfort and safety without touching the home’s visible character. For example:
Replace outdated knob-and-tube wiring with modern systems, run discreetly through walls and floors.
Improve energy efficiency with spray foam or cellulose insulation—strategically placed so it won’t damage the original plaster.
Install zoned HVAC systems with small-duct or ductless mini-splits to minimize structural impact and maximize temperature regulation.
3. Choose Sympathetic Materials and Finishes
If your renovation includes new cabinetry, flooring, or fixtures, the key is to choose elements that feel true to the original design, even if they’re brand new. That might mean reclaimed wood floors, custom trim profiles that echo the originals, or hardware in period-appropriate finishes. When in doubt, ask your design team for ideas.
Want to add a modern kitchen? Great. Consider cabinetry styles, lighting, and materials that nod to the home’s era instead of competing with it.
4. Reimagine Layouts Without Erasing History
Most historic homes weren’t built for modern open-concept living. Even still, that doesn’t mean you can’t open walls or reconfigure space here and there—just do it with an eye for balance. When possible, preserve sightlines, reuse original doors and trim, and keep transitions intentional. For example, you might:
Combine a small kitchen and dining room to create a spacious gathering area
Turn an unused back stairwell into a walk-in pantry or powder room
Add French doors between rooms instead of removing walls entirely
There are a number of ways to go about this, sometimes you just have to think outside the box. With the right approach, you can improve flow while still honoring the architectural hierarchy of the original home.
5. Add Space Strategically
Whether it’s a new primary suite, sunroom, or mudroom, additions to historic homes should feel like natural extensions rather than afterthoughts. This doesn’t mean they have to match every detail exactly, but they should respect the scale, proportions, and materials of the existing home. Otherwise, you run the risk of disjointed, awkward room continuity.
A good rule of thumb: Let the original home remain the visual anchor. Additions should complement, not compete.
What Makes Ann Arbor Renovations Unique?
Ann Arbor is known for its deep love of history—and its equally strong appetite for innovation. That combination makes it the perfect place to live in a home that’s both timeless and up-to-date. Remember, however, that historic home renovation in Ann Arbor comes with a few unique factors to consider:
Historic district regulations: Areas like Old Fourth Ward, Germantown, and Old West Side may be subject to design review by the Historic District Commission.
Climate demands:Michigan winters require smart insulation, energy-efficient windows, and water-resilient materials. Proper temperature regulation preserves history!
Neighborhood context: History extends beyond your walls. Homes in historic districts often share a visual language, and your renovations should reflect that rhythm.
The MBK Approach: Craft Meets Context
At MBK Constructors, we take pride in helping homeowners navigate the complexity and creativity of historic renovations. Our design-build process means you work with a single team from concept to completion—saving time, reducing stress, and ensuring every detail is handled with care.
What sets us apart?
Contextual design: We tailor every decision to your home’s specific style, structure, and history.
Transparent collaboration: You’ll always know what’s happening and why—from material choices to permitting strategies.
Craftsmanship-first mentality: Our team of skilled builders and artisans understands the responsibility of working in legacy homes.
You don’t have to choose between comfort and character. With MBK, you get both—thoughtfully integrated, beautifully executed, every time.
Whether your goal is to update key systems, add square footage, or simply make your historic home more livable, MBK Constructors can offer the knowledge, care, and craftsmanship to make it possible.
Let’s modernize your home without losing its charm. Contact MBK to discuss our design-build process.
In the construction world, efficiency matters. Owners want projects delivered on time, within budget, and with as little stress as possible. That’s why the design-build approach has quickly become the preferred method for residential and commercial projects alike.
In fact, design-build now accounts for 47% of construction spending in the US, with that number expected to keep rising. Why? Because it works—saving time, reducing costs, and improving outcomes.
Why More Homeowners Are Choosing Design-Build
The design-build approach combines design and construction into one cohesive process, leading to several different benefits for homeowners. Let’s get into it.
Faster Delivery, Fewer Headaches
Time is money, and design-build delivers on both fronts. According to one source, design-build projects typically complete 33% faster and at a cost savings of up to 10% compared to traditional construction methods. With fewer handoffs, better communication between teams, and minimized delays, designs can be sent for permitting sooner—which means construction gets underway faster.
For project managers—and by extension, you—that means less time managing timelines, fewer schedule surprises, and faster access to a completed building.
Greater Cost Certainty
One of the biggest concerns in construction is the risk of going over budget. Design-build reduces this risk by fostering early collaboration between architects, builders, and owners, resulting in more accurate cost estimates, fewer changes, and fewer surprises.
This integrated approach consistently delivers greater cost certainty and lower cost overruns. When your builder is part of the design process, you get real-time insight into how design choices impact cost and feasibility.
One Team = One Contract and One Vision
With design-build, everyone is aligned from the start. This unity fosters better communication, faster problem-solving, and fewer change orders throughout the project. Owners report significantly higher satisfaction with design-build, with many describing their experience as “very good” or “excellent.”
That’s because with a single point of accountability, your team is working together—not in silos.
Project Types Where Design-Build Shines
Design-build isn’t just faster and more cost-effective; it’s also incredibly versatile. This integrated approach is ideal for a wide range of residential projects, particularly those that require close coordination between design and construction teams.
Whole Home Renovations
Whether you’re reimagining your layout, expanding your square footage, or modernizing outdated features, design-build provides the structure and flexibility to execute large-scale transformations smoothly and efficiently.
Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling
Bathrooms and kitchens are two of the most complex rooms in any home, where function, style, and technical considerations all collide. Design-build helps ensure your vision is executed seamlessly, from custom cabinetry to plumbing and lighting details.
Structural Modifications
For homes that need foundational repairs, framing adjustments, or support reinforcements, design-build keeps engineering, design, and construction in sync, avoiding delays and costly errors.
Custom Additions and Builds
From ADUs to second stories, design-build is well-suited for custom construction projects that benefit from early collaboration and unified project management.
At MBK Constructors, we’ve refined our design-build approach to ensure efficiency, transparency, and high-quality results. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen or renovating your entire home, our process keeps your goals (and your budget) front and center.
Here’s how it works:
First, you’ll meet with one of our project managers.
We select an architect or designer from our existing network of vetted professionals who are aligned with your needs and preferences.
We establish a preliminary budget with you based on the proposed scope of work.
We enter into a pre-construction service agreement.
We work with the designer to draft preliminary drawings and provide an estimate.
We make necessary adjustments to ensure we stay within your budget.
We finalize the design and construction plans, ensuring every detail meets your expectations.
We move forward with construction, with your approval.
We update you every step of the way, from securing permits to the final walkthrough.
We perform a final inspection and complete a punch list, adding any finishing touches to ensure your home is exactly as you envisioned.
