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Whether building a new home or remodeling your existing home, Ageless Design concepts and options are available in most any room. KITCHEN: Install a shallow sink (6” deep); mount a lever-handled faucet on the side of the sink to limit reaching; add pull-out shelving to cabinets to eliminate reaching to the back of cabinet; mount upper cabinets 3 inches lower than conventional height. BATHROOM: Allow more space than standard bathroom for assistive devices such as walkers and wheelchairs; install grab bars next to toilet and in the tub or shower; install a roll-in shower; add a shower seat. BEDROOM: Add an adjustable closet shelving system to allow customization of height based on individual needs; add more lighting to closet and bedroom. LAUNDRY ROOM: Install a non-slip floor surface; reconfigure location of washer and dryer to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs; install front-loading washer and dryer. CLOSETS: In a two-story home, “stack” two closets so the space can easily be modified for an elevator shaft later. Wakeland says it’s important to do your homework when selecting a contractor, either to build new construction or to tackle a remodeling project. He suggests these tips: • Call the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (nclbgc.org, 919-571-4183) to make sure a contractor is properly licensed. A general contractor’s license is a requirement in North Carolina. • Never hire someone who comes to your door and offers a deal. “Many times, they are not above board, and you could wind up paying for work that never gets done,” Wakeland warns.
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• Check with your local home builders association. “Most only allow ethical contractors to join,” Wakeland says. “We have a website that lists the specialties of all our contractor members. You can find the contractor’s website, review their projects and decide on one whose work suits you best.” • Talk to your friends. Word-ofmouth is usually the best form of marketing. • Contact the Better Business Bureau. The BBB can tell you if a contractor has had complaints filed against them and why.