Planning a Remodel? What Many Homeowners Over 55 Wish They Had Considered
Chelsea O'Donnell
Late winter has a way of making us look around the house a little differently. When you’ve spent months indoors, small inconveniences feel bigger. The kitchen lighting seems dimmer, the bathroom feels tighter, and storage feels nonexistent.
For many homeowners, this is the season when remodeling plans start to take shape. And while spring and summer are busy construction months, late winter is the ideal time to plan.
Over the years, we’ve worked with many homeowners who decide to remodel after decades in the same house. What’s interesting isn’t what they want to change, it’s what they wish they had thought about sooner.
One of the biggest regrets is storage. Not decorative shelving, but functional storage. Deep drawers instead of lower cabinets in kitchens. Pull-out pantry systems. Built-in storage near entryways to prevent clutter from spreading. As we accumulate years, and belongings, thoughtful storage becomes less about aesthetics and more about daily ease. Remodeling is the perfect opportunity to add storage that works with how you actually live.
Lighting is another common oversight. Many homes built 20 or 30 years ago were designed with a single overhead fixture in each room. Today we know better. Layered lighting, overhead, task, and accent, transforms how a space functions. Under-cabinet kitchen lighting improves visibility for food prep. Better stairway lighting reduces shadows. Well-placed bathroom lighting eliminates glare and dark corners. Good lighting isn’t flashy, but it makes a home feel newer, safer, and more comfortable.
Then there’s what’s often referred to as “universal design.” It’s a term that sounds technical, but the concept is simple: designing spaces that work well for people of all ages and abilities. Wider doorways. Lever-style door handles instead of knobs. Curbless showers. Slightly higher toilets. None of these features scream “age.” In fact, when incorporated thoughtfully, they simply feel like smart design. The homeowners who embrace these ideas during a remodel rarely regret it later.
Flooring is another area worth careful thought. Smooth tile or highly polished surfaces may look beautiful in a showroom, but slip-resistant materials offer peace of mind in everyday life. This is especially important in kitchens, bathrooms, mudrooms, and entryways where moisture is common. Choosing the right flooring now can prevent unnecessary risks later.
Finally, maintenance matters more than most people realize. When planning a remodel, it’s tempting to focus only on appearance. But selecting durable, low-maintenance materials often pays off long term. Composite decking instead of wood that needs frequent staining. Quality exterior trim that resists rot. Countertops and flooring that stand up to wear without constant upkeep. The goal isn’t just to improve how your home looks this year, it’s to reduce how much work it requires five or ten years from now.
The common thread in all of these decisions is foresight. Remodeling isn’t just about updating style. It’s about improving how your home supports you over time.
Late winter gives you space to think through these choices carefully. It allows for conversations about layout, lighting, materials, and long-term plans without the pressure of an urgent timeline. By the time spring arrives, you’ll be ready to move forward with clarity instead of rushing decisions.
A well-planned remodel should make your home more comfortable today while quietly preparing it for tomorrow. When done thoughtfully, it’s an investment in staying right where you want to be and that’s always worth the extra effort.
Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. For remodeling or home improvement needs, call (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.