MAC Renovations in Victoria has been helping homeowners remodel for retirement since 1980. As a second-generation family business, they’ve learned that to create an efficient and effective space that homeowners can enjoy for as long as possible, it’s essential to start with a conversation to understand how the homeowner uses the space today and how they hope to use it in the future.
Designing for the lifestyle you want
“We begin by asking about your expectations,” explained Terri Geddes, designer and millwork specialist at MAC Renovations. “Do you like cooking? Who's the cook in the family? What kind of cooking do you love to do? This helps us determine how you plan to use the space and what you might need. For some families, this might include a countertop cooktop with a single or double wall oven."
Thinking differently about your appliance selection
"Splitting these appliances can make them more accessible. For example, with a wall oven, you can choose the height that works for you, so you don’t have to bend down to pull the turkey out when it’s done. For one of our clients, we were able to configure her cooktop with space below it, so she could use it while in her wheelchair.”
As one of the two Qualified Adaptiv Home Specialists in Victoria, MAC Renovations has demonstrated their knowledge, experience, and capacity to accommodate people living with a disability, a progressive condition, or those looking to age in place.
The benefit of testing appliances before you buy
When it comes to appliances, going hands-on can help you feel the difference.
“We recommend that our clients go to the Trail Appliances showroom and experience the different options,” explained Terri. “That way, you can see and feel how you’d use the appliance at home. Are you OK to bend down to get the food in the freezer, or would French doors be a better option for you? Is the microwave easy to open and close? Would a side-opening wall oven work best, or would you prefer a front-opening model? Exploring your options and chatting with the experts can help you choose appliances that fit your life today and will be enjoyable tomorrow.”
Dignity in Every Detail
An aging-in-place kitchen renovation goes beyond choosing the right appliances.
“For many of our aging-in-place projects, we’ve consulted an occupational therapist,” shared Terri. “They can assess where you are today and help you consider solutions that will help if your mobility becomes more challenging. Wider halls and doorways can allow wheelchairs or walkers, levered handles can make it easier to open doors. By involving an external professional, homeowners don’t need to share their personal medical information with us.
In addition to preserving your privacy and dignity, an occupational therapist helps us maximize your independence and ensure you have the ability — and the space — to continue to do the things that matter to you.”
If you’re thinking about appliances for the kitchen you plan to enjoy throughout your retirement, consider some of the accessibility-friendly options, such as dishwasher drawers, induction cooktops, and built-in coffee systems.
Think Smart Technology
Smart appliances, like those using the Samsung Family Hub™ or Samsung SmartThings, can provide useful information for yourself — or someone you care for — about what’s in the fridge, when the roast in the oven will be done to perfection, or how much longer the dishwasher has left to run. And other smart appliances allow you to automate many tasks, so you can spend more time enjoying your retirement.
Get expert advice
When it’s time to purchase a refrigerator or a new stove or cooktop, chat with a Product Specialist at Trail Appliances to find the best options that allow you to comfortably enjoy your home for as long as you want.
Contact the team at Trail Appliances to discover a better appliance-shopping experience.
If you reside in Greater Victoria, connect with MAC Renovations for expert advice on renovating your home for your changing needs.