Pre-Home Renovation Vision & Options Review –
MORPHETT VALE
This widow’s home needed modernisation with consideration for aging in place.
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I was requested to help with exploring the options, making decisions around furniture requirements, furniture layout, possible relocation of internal doorways, colours, style, plus layout of bathroom, ensuite and laundry to modernise the home and create a home that was safe and comfortable to live in.
This client needed support with exploring possible solutions and decision making, and then they were happy to DIY the project themselves with family help.
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I completed a Vision and Options Review, an in-depth, extended consultation process, and then created a follow up written Vision and Options Report that provided the confidence to proceed themselves.
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THE PROPERTY
The property is a small 2-bedroom and 1-bathroom home in Morphett Vale, South Australia. A separate, previously renovated granny flat adjoins the extensive alfresco area.
PROJECT ASSESSMENT
The open concept living areas looked dark and lacked flow, due to an internal wall that blocked natural light natural light being blocked. The eclectic mix of furniture was incongruent, and some of it too bulky for the space available and wasn’t suitable for the desired purpose. The was a serious need for storage solutions in the lounge room. The front door entry was blocked by boxes of books and furniture, which also blocked natural light. Suitable bookcases were required to allow the extensive book collection to be unpacked and enjoyed. Furniture layout needed changing to allow safe mobilisation within the room and seating positioned near natural light for reading and knitting.
The kitchen lacked adequate storage and functionality was extremely poor. It needed a full renovation.
The bathrooms and laundry needed redesigning and upgrading to be safe and suitable for aging in place.
One bedroom was very dark and cramped with a furniture layout that didn’t make the most of the space. One bedroom needed transforming into a space to enjoy hobbies and interests, so requirements for this space needed to be decided.
The flooring was needing to be replaced. Lighting needed improving.
Overall, the client had an urgent desire for home organisation to bring a sense of calm and refuge, and a safe design to allow ageing in place.
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PROJECT DETAILS
A classical design aesthetic with a new light colour scheme of soft blue and white with warm timber accents was proposed. Addition of some wall panelling was suggested to add texture and interest, and to reinforce the clients preferred style.
Fresh window coverings were proposed to make the most of the natural light. A new extendable dining table was recommended to accommodate visiting family meals. Relocation of existing storage cabinets from lounge to dining area and relocation of TV was discussed, with an improved new location proposed. A family gallery wall for photos of much-loved family members was proposed.
Tapware, bathroom sanitaryware and grab rails suitable for aging in place were highly recommended for safety reasons.
The kitchen doorway was suggested to be widened as a solution to the existing narrow and cramped situation.
Reconfiguration of both bedrooms was proposed with a few new pieces to be purchased, and creation of a multipurpose room to suit her desired lifestyle.
A new design and space planning was proposed to encourage participation in hobbies & interests and her preferred lifestyle.