Antique sitting area with large windows and white and green wallpaper

Design Notes

ARE YOU EMPTY NESTERS?

You spent your life caring for your kids, making sure they got to school on time, taking them back and forth to sports practice, and ensuring there were enough snacks in the house. Now, you’re an empty nesters, the last one has graduated from college, and they are off to make their own life, leaving you with a house that may be a little more than you need. Many parents embrace this new season of life by downsizing their home or repurposing their existing space. Let’s explore the possibilities of your new potential living space.

Guest Suite

Now that the kids are gone, you have more room for friends visiting the area to stay with you for the weekend. Consider making it a little retreat by having a separate bathroom and even a small seating area for them to relax.

Hobby Room

You took care of the kids’ needs and invested in their interests for so long that you may have forgotten what you liked to do in your spare time. Now that they are gone, it is the perfect opportunity to get reacquainted with the things you enjoyed doing. Some ideas for this space might be:

  • An art studio
  • Craft room
  • Wine tasting room
  • Writers Corner
  • Photography studio
  • Sewing room

The possibilities are endless and will help you get those creative juices flowing. Who knows, you might even make a little extra doing it.

A master bedroom with white cabinetry and a built in closet on both sides and a white bed

Expanded Master Bedroom

Even though the whole house could be considered your space, there is something special about creating a unique retreat in your home that is just for you. Some fun and even practical things you can think about adding would be:

  • A larger bathroom: ever wanted a shower and a soaker tub? Now’s the time!
  • Walk-in closets for both would be a big plus.
  • A sitting area for those peaceful Saturday mornings or quiet evenings.
  • Expand the square footage of the entire room and maybe make room for some new furniture.

Your master bedroom is your space, meant to be a place you can unwind after the day or relax before going to sleep.

In-Law Suite

Sometimes, when the kids move out, your parents are in a place where they need to move to. Having a space where they can still feel independent but are near enough to have help when needed is essential for everyone’s peace of mind. Consider including this in the design:

  • A small kitchenette where they can prepare their breakfast, beverages, and snacks.
  • Keep it on the ground level to avoid any potential falls
  • Wider doorways to accommodate a walker or wheelchair
  • Make the bathroom easy to use, for example, by installing a walk-in shower or tub.

Many homes are adding a space for in-laws, making it a great selling point.

Living room with a large mantle and TV

Consider The Future

When planning your new renovation, it might be wise to consider the future, since doing major renovations later may not be as simple. Here are a few things to consider when planning your renovation.

  • Slip-resistant flooring and minimal transitions
  • Wider doorways for potential future needs
  • Minimize the stairs
  • Exchange door knobs for handles.
  • Reevaluate the kitchen, consider lowering some countertops, and add extra drawers that are easier to access.

Considering the future in your current renovation is not a bad thing; it could save you additional time and money on another remodel down the road. Talk to your designer to get their input on the matter; they may have helpful tips from past projects.

Increased Home Value

Many of these renovations can add tremendous value to your home and make it easier to sell if you choose to move at some point or downsize. Families often look for unique and functional features to support their daily routines. The more you can help them see themselves in your space, the easier the sale will be, and it may even begin a bidding war.

Lots Of Potential

Our team will help you create a space perfect for your lifestyle and routine. We have assisted hundreds of clients in discovering what they needed and designed a space that was not just good but great. We don’t want to simply please our clients; we want to wow them with a finished project that meets their needs. We proudly serve over fifteen counties and continue to grow as our clients share their wonderful experiences with us. We invite you to contact us with any questions you may have.

/onFebruary 7, 2020/updatedJanuary 28, 2026/inDesign Notes
laundry room with a televisionWalker Woodworking

Laundry Room Design Tips

The laundry room is essential to the smooth operation of the household because it keeps garments tidy and ready for use. Given that the washing cycle never ends, it is evident that long periods will be spent in this area.

Read more
/0 Comments/by

Designing For A Small Kitchen

Cramped, tiny, small, and tight. These words describe a kitchen that is smaller than average. While many will say that their kitchen is not as functional as they would like it to be, regardless of size, it is always more apparent when in a small kitchen.

Read more
/0 Comments/by
Jewelry holder with earringsWalker Woodworking

5 Organization Tips for your Home

Organization is an essential part of maintaining a home’s optimal functioning and minimizing stress for everyone. Small piles of clutter can grow quickly, and as their size increases, so does the pressure to eliminate them.

Read more
/0 Comments/by
Large walnut hood with white backsplashWalker Woodworking

Choosing The Right Cabinet Company: Questions To Ask!

When selecting a custom cabinet company for your home, asking the right questions can make all the difference. Custom cabinets can transform your space, adding functionality, beauty, and value to your home.

Read more
/0 Comments/by
pink laundry roomWalker Woodworking

Designing the Perfect Laundry Room with Custom Cabinets

Often overlooked in home design, the laundry room has evolved into a space where functionality and style intersect. No longer just a utility space hidden away, modern laundry rooms are designed to make washing and folding clothes an efficient and enjoyable experience.

Read more
/0 Comments/by
Kitchen Cabinet Design Trends For 2020white kitchen with a brown islandWalker Woodworkingbathroom vanity with seating and a towel warmerWalker WoodworkingWhich Cabinet Hardware To Buy?