Home Building Blog | Asheville NC

Universal Home Design for Aging in Place in Asheville

Written by Jonathan Landry | Jan. 18, 2026

Creating a home that evolves with your needs is essential for aging in place, especially in the beautiful and dynamic city of Asheville.

Why Universal Design is Perfect for Aging in Place

As we move through different stages of life, what we need from our home naturally changes and at Kaizen Homes, we understand that. That’s why more people are choosing to design homes that make life easier, safer, and more comfortable—now and in the years ahead. Universal design is all about creating spaces that are welcoming and functional for everyone, no matter your age or ability. It’s a smart, thoughtful approach to building that allows your home to adapt with you over time.

That might mean adding things like step-free entrances, wider doorways, or easy-to-use lever handles—features that make daily life simpler without sacrificing style. By planning for these details early in the design process, you’re not just building a beautiful home—you’re creating a space that supports your lifestyle today and keeps you comfortable for years to come.

Key Features of Universal Home Design

Universal home design includes a range of features that enhance accessibility and functionality. Some key elements to consider include:

1. **Single-Level Living:** A single-story layout eliminates the need for stairs, making it easier to navigate the home.

2. **Open Floor Plans:** These layouts improve mobility and make it easier to move around, especially if mobility aids are required in the future.

3. **Accessible Bathrooms:** Features like walk-in showers, grab bars, and raised toilet seats enhance safety and comfort.

4. **Adaptable Kitchens:** Lower countertops, pull-out shelves, and side-opening ovens make kitchen tasks more manageable.

5. **Smart Home Technology:** Integrating smart technology can provide added convenience and safety, such as automated lighting, security systems, and voice-activated controls.

Tailoring Your Home to Asheville’s Unique Environment

Asheville’s creative energy, musical roots, and natural beauty make it more than just a scenic place to live—it’s a lifestyle worth designing for. At Kaizen Homes, we work hand-in-hand with our clients and design team to craft homes that reflect both personal vision and the spirit of Western North Carolina. Whether it's incorporating expansive windows to frame the Blue Ridge views or planning a dedicated space for art, music, or quiet reflection, every element is intentionally chosen to support how you want to live—today and in the decades to come.

Our approach to universal design ensures your home is both beautiful and functional, with thoughtful features that support comfort, safety, and long-term independence. Asheville’s welcoming, inclusive culture makes it an ideal place to age in place—and we’re here to help you design a home that grows with you.

The Economic Benefits of Aging in Place

Investing in a home designed for aging in place can offer significant economic benefits. Building a custom home that meets your long-term needs can be more cost-effective than moving to an assisted living facility later on. Additionally, homes with universal design features tend to have higher resale values, as they appeal to a broader range of buyers.

For more detailed information on the costs associated with building a custom home in Asheville, you can visit our comprehensive guide.

Choosing the Right Construction Partner in Asheville

Choosing a knowledgeable and trusting construction partner is essential for a successful aging-in-place project. Kaizen Homes distinguishes itself in Asheville through our specialized expertise and personalized service. Owner/operator Abby Landry possesses extensive experience in the senior industry as a healthy aging expert, ensuring your home is crafted with your long-term needs in focus.

Together, Jonathan and Abby Landry offer a level of personal attention that larger firms may not provide. This commitment to customized service guarantees that every aspect of your home is tailored to your specific needs, making Kaizen Homes the perfect partner for building your forever home in Asheville.