Creating Comfort: Basement Remodel for Aging Parents in Lafayette, Colorado

Why were renovations necessary? 

It happens to us all, we age. In this particular case, homeowners of a beautiful home in Lafayette, Colorado were ready to remodel their basement so that their parents could comfortably live, but still have a helping hand if needed. The Refresh Renovations team, led by Chris Carter, created a design, plan, and budget for renovations. They focused on making the basement area safe, comfortable, and functional for the homeowner's parents, ensuring they still felt independent. With the final design, plan, and budget confirmed Refresh began the remodel. 

Type of renovation - Granny Flat Style

Similar to a granny flat, this basement remodel included a bedroom, living room, bathroom, dining area, and a small kitchen. What makes this remodel different to a granny flat, is this secondary living unit is a self-contained dwelling unit in the basement instead of an extension to the exciting house or a separate detached dwelling located on the same property of the house. 

Flooring: Luxury Vinyl Plank, Carpet & Ceramic Tile 

There were three types of flooring that was used in this renovation: Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP), Carpet, and Ceramic Tile. Luxury vinyl flooring is great as it’s waterproof, easy to clean, extremely durable, and a gorgeous addition to the aesthetic of a space, in this case, the kitchen and dining area. All other rooms, except for the bathroom, were carpeted. It is said that a carpeted floor is a safer floor. With an underpadding and soft and cushioned upper surface, it makes for a slip-resistant floor. Traditionally, ceramic tile is a wise choice when it comes to bathroom floors. This is because ceramic tiles are hygienic, do not stain, and are easy to maintain and clean.  

Lighting 

Recessed lighting was installed in every room, to illuminate each space with ample lighting. This type of lighting sits flush to the surface and is finished with a sleek trim. By being installed in the ceiling the wiring components are hidden, only the bulb appears to glow. There are a variety of trim selections, in this case, a smooth, modern white trim was selected. 

Kitchen

This kitchen was planned for functionality, and ease of use. Plenty of cabinet storage and functionality consists of multiple drawer options to a corner lazy Susan. The cabinet door style chosen was a recessed panel door. This style of cabinet door has a center panel that is slightly lower than the surrounding door frame. Granite was selected for the countertops because it’s a very strong material. It is naturally non-absorbing, stain-resistant, and scratch resistant making it perfect for kitchen use. Outfitted with new stainless steel appliances, this kitchen is sure to have plenty of delicious home-cooked meals. 

Acorn Stair Lift

The final component of this renovation was the installation of an Acorn Stair Lift. This chair lift offers a comfortable and reliable ride from the basement flat to the upstairs home and will provide additional safety for this new living space. 

Chris Carter, Remodeling Consultant had to say this about this project…

”The main focus of this renovation project was to create a safe, comfortable, and functional space for aging parents, and the outcome was a huge success. The homeowners and parents are very happy with the space.” 

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