Tips to keep in mind when designing a suite in law

Have you ever considered letting your aging parents move in with you? A multi-generation household benefits everyone involved. Older relatives can help with housework and with your children while you can take care of the more physical tasks for them.

However, if your parents are still relatively healthy and independent, it may not work if they have a bedroom in your house. Instead, you may need to find a way to add a suite in law.

What is a suite in law?

A suite-in-law (also known as a mother-in-law apartment) is like a miniature apartment in your home. Most suites-in-law have at least one bedroom and bathroom, while more lavish suites-in-law have a sitting area and kitchenette.

Suites-in-law are usually designed as an addition to a house or as a private space in your basement. Common living areas of the house, e.g. B. a living room or a fully equipped kitchen can be shared with the Suite in Law.

How can you convey a feeling of independence?

It is an important part of building a suite in law to give your parents some independence. Ideally, the suite should feel like a home. You don’t want your parents to feel like they are visitors to your home.

In general, you’ll want to find a way to provide a separate entrance to the suite. This allows your parents to come and go without feeling like they have to use your front door. If your parents are in a wheelchair or have other mobility problems, keep this in mind when designing the entrance. For example, if you are in a wheelchair, make sure you have a ramp at your disposal.

It is also important to find a way to heat and cool the room separately. This enables your parents to keep the temperature at a comfortable level for themselves.

You should also note whether you can hear outside noises in the suite or not. They have already raised their own children – they don’t want to hear your baby cry at night! If you add an additive to your house, make sure that the interior walls are soundproofed.

Should you decorate the suite for them?

Most of the time, your parents want to have a say in what the interior of the suite looks like. Ask them if they have a preference for color and floor. While the decision is ultimately yours because it is your house, you don’t want to paint the suite a color they absolutely hate.

When it comes to furniture, your parents will probably want to bring their existing furniture with them. Help your parents walk around their house to find out what fits in the suite and what doesn’t.

If your parents are in a position where they have no furniture to move, choose furniture that focuses on body alignment. Many older people suffer from pain, so having the right kind of furniture will make them feel comfortable. If you already have furniture, you can get it and find ways to make it comfortable. For example, a soft mattress topper is a great way to add comfort to an older mattress. Your mother says, “Gosh, that’s it made for a queen to fill up! ”

How can you prepare for future needs?

Your parents don’t get younger. Part of the design of a suite in law is to anticipate future requirements. For example, if your parents are currently using a walking aid to get around, you may have to expect a wheelchair one day.

Make sure that all doors in the suite are wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair. Add handrails throughout the bathroom to help get your parents in and out. Opt for a larger tub that is easy to get in and out of.

Planning ahead now can save you money in the future. Talk to your parents about their health needs. If necessary, speak to a geriatrician. A professional will give you tips on what kind of furnishings in the suite allow your parents to live independently.

Final thoughts

A well-designed suite in law gives your aging parents the feeling of having their own apartment in their home. This allows them to remain independent, but you can help them with their needs if necessary.