How to Design Your Forever Home: A Guide to Aging in Place and Multigenerational Living

Imagine this: The conversation at your family’s Sunday dinner shifts—slightly tense, a little hopeful—as you and your partner worry about your parents living alone, or perhaps you’re already thinking about your own comfort in the years to come. Is it possible to keep everyone safe, connected, and independent—all under one roof?

This is the question thousands of families in Louisville and across the country face every year. The answer? Yes, with the right approach to home design. Welcome to the world of aging in place and multigenerational living—a model that’s redefining how we think about family, comfort, and longevity.

Why Aging in Place & Multigenerational Living?

According to AARP, nearly 80% of adults over 50 want to remain in their own homes as they age. Meanwhile, U.S. multigenerational households have quadrupled since the 1970s. The benefits are clear: closer family bonds, shared expenses, and daily support. But these arrangements demand thoughtful, adaptable spaces.

The Emotional Journey: Navigating Change Together

Inviting parents to move in, or preparing for your own future, can stir up worries about privacy, independence, and family roles. It’s normal to feel conflicted—after all, your home is your haven. But with honest communication and the right remodeling strategy, many families (including those we’ve guided at Kiel Thomson Company) discover a new level of harmony and togetherness. Debunk the myth: Multigenerational doesn’t mean losing privacy—it’s about designing for autonomy within shared walls.

Key Principles for “Forever Home” Design

• Flexibility & Adaptability

  • Design rooms that can shift purpose—a guest room today, a bedroom tomorrow.

  • Removable or non-load-bearing walls allow spaces to grow and change.

• Universal Design

  • Zero-step entries and flush thresholds ensure safety for all ages.

  • Wider doorways (36 inches or more) accommodate wheelchairs or walkers.

  • Lever handles, easy-grip faucets, and touchless fixtures simplify daily tasks.

• Accessibility in Essentials

  • At least one bathroom on the main floor with a curbless shower and grab bars discreetly integrated into the design.

  • Lowered light switches, easy-access storage, and open circulation paths.

• Embracing Technology

  • Smart home systems—lighting, security, climate control, and voice assistants—boost safety and independence.

• Safe and Inviting Outdoor Spaces

  • o   Gentle-sloped ramps, slip-resistant walks, lighting, and raised garden beds.

Cost-Effective Ways to Future-Proof

• Start with essential upgrades—main floor living, bathroom modifications, and accessible entries.

• Choose products that blend safety with style (modern grab bars, slip-resistant tiles, smart lighting that looks elegant).

• Phase renovations to spread out costs and disruption.

Making Confident Decisions—Now and For the Future

Designing for aging in place and multigenerational living means putting people first. At Kiel Thomson Company, we work collaboratively with families to balance aesthetics, safety, and budget—guiding you with expert insight and a client-first approach so your home stands the test of time.

Ready to start your journey? Let’s design a forever home that works for every generation—today, tomorrow, and always.