5 Tips for Designing an Annex for Your Home
Collaborative Post
As our loved ones get older, the time may come when they don’t feel as comfortable living alone as they once did.
If you have extra space on your land then setting up an annex attached to your property can be a great way to ensure that they are still able to live independently, but also that you’re close enough should they need your help.
If you’re considering designing an annex to house an elderly relative, here are just five fantastic tips to ensure you have a safe, stylish, and functional space.
Ensure Functionality
Functionality is one of the most important parts of your annex design. The layout of the space should be easy to use and navigate for your relatives, and allow for any accessibility requirements that they may develop over time.
For example, installing a wet room in the bathroom, such as those stocked by Victoria Plumbing, can ensure that they don’t need to step over the rim of a shower or bath in order to bathe themselves.
Similarly, designing your annex with wider doorways can allow for a wheelchair to move freely through a space should they ever become unsteady on their feet.
Prioritise Safety
Prioritising safety in your annex design is essential, particularly as when we age we become more prone to slips and falls.
Choosing non-slip flooring for your annex can help reduce the chances of your relatives losing their footing.
It’s also a good idea to install grab rails throughout the annex as this will not only allow your relatives to move around more easily, but also give them an added sense of security.
Design with Style
Style is essential when designing your annex, one of the best things about moving your relative onto your property is that they can avoid living in a care home. Therefore it’s important that the annex doesn’t feel like one.
Introducing stylish features can be a great way to improve the overall aesthetics of the space. For example, splashbacks from experts such as Lawcris can add colour and texture to your kitchen designs. When planning your designs, speak to your contract about suppliers such as Lawcris and ensure that the kitchen of your annex is stylish on a budget.
Consider Energy Efficiency
As the cost of heating an extra building on your property can be significant, it’s important that you build energy efficiency into your designs.
Opting for new appliances and smart LED bulbs can help to keep your energy costs down.
It’s also a good idea to evaluate whether you’re getting the best deal from your energy supplier. With platforms such as Uswitch, you can compare your energy options and get the best deal for your wallet.
Opt for Privacy
Ensuring privacy for your annex is a great way to help your relatives maintain their independence.
Having a separate entrance will allow them to come and go without having to travel through the main house.
Finding the balance between connection and independence, can help to ensure that the whole family is happy with the new living situation.
Image on Unsplash
