Designed to Stay: An Award-Winning Universal Design Remodel
There comes a moment for many homeowners when the question quietly surfaces: Do we stay… or do we go?
Not because the house no longer feels like home. But because something about it no longer quite works the way it used to. Stairs feel steeper. Spaces feel tighter. Daily routines take just a little more effort than they once did. For these homeowners, the answer wasn’t to leave. It was to rethink what their home could be. They chose to stay and to make their home work better for them, not just for today, but for the years ahead.
A Different Way to Think About Home
When we began this project, the goal wasn’t just to add space. It was to create a home that could support comfort, independence, and ease over time. That’s where Universal Design comes in. Often misunderstood as something purely functional—or only necessary later in life—Universal Design is, at its core, about creating spaces that work beautifully for everyone, at every stage. When done well, it doesn’t feel clinical or obvious. It simply feels right. This project is a reflection of that philosophy.
A Home That Works Better, Every Day
To support long-term living, we worked with Jeremiah Battles, AIA, of Acacia Architects, LLC, and the homeowner to design an addition that provides essential spaces on the main floor. A new primary suite and laundry area eliminate the need to navigate stairs for daily routines, something that may feel like a convenience today, but becomes essential over time.
The bathroom was designed with both beauty and function in mind. A curbless shower allows for easy access, while wide doorways, adaptable cabinetry, and radiant in-floor heat create a space that is as comfortable as it is practical. Every detail was considered, not just for how it looks, but for how it feels to live in.
Beyond the addition, the home received a thoughtful exterior refresh, including new siding and windows, as well as an expanded outdoor living area with a deck and grill area. These updates create a stronger connection between indoors and outdoors, making it easier to fully enjoy the home in every season.
The kitchen, remodeled several years ago, continues to support the flow of the home, tying together past investments with this new phase of thoughtful design.
Design That Doesn’t Announce Itself
One of the most important aspects of Universal Design is that it doesn’t call attention to itself. There are no flashing signs that say this is an accessible design. Instead, there is a quiet sense of ease. Spaces feel more open. Movement feels more natural. Daily tasks require less effort. The best Universal Design is almost invisible. It simply supports you, every day, in ways you may not even notice at first—but would certainly miss without it.
Recognized for Thoughtful Design
This project was honored with a 2026 Regional Remodeler of the Year (RoTY) Award from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, recognizing excellence in design, craftsmanship, and innovation. While we’re proud of the award, what matters most is what it represents: a home designed not just to look beautiful but to truly support the people living in it.
Experience It on the MSP Home Tour
There’s something powerful about experiencing a home like this in person. We invite you to visit this project during the MSP Home Tour, May 2-3 from 11 AM-5 PM, where you can see firsthand how Universal Design can be seamlessly integrated into a home without sacrificing style or warmth.
Join Us for a Topic Talk on Universal Design
While you’re visiting, we’ll also be hosting a Topic Talk on Universal Design on Saturday, May 2, at 2 PM. We’ll walk through how to incorporate these ideas into your own home, whether you’re planning a renovation now or simply thinking ahead. We’ll share where to start, what decisions have the biggest impact, and how to create a home that continues to work for you over time.
A Home That Grows With You
In the end, this project isn’t just about an addition. It’s about a shift in perspective. A home doesn’t have to be something you outgrow. With thoughtful design, it can grow with you—supporting your independence, your comfort, and your life as it evolves.