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Source: Atlanta InTown Paper
Considering a remodeling project? You have developed your list of products and have collected pictures of all the features and design elements you wish to integrate into the renovation.
But have you considered design features that will enhance your lifestyle and promote your ability to sustain that lifestyle when you begin to age in your home? Maybe you have a parent that needs to be cared for, or a child who requires special needs. Imagine incorporating some design features that not only meet your needs but provide an environment that supports the needs of all.
The new design thought process of Universal Design is just that. This design process is one that covers the design of products, environments and services that can be used by all in your family regardless of their age or needs. The beauty of this design process is that not only can you achieve the beautiful trendy looks of today’s kitchens, baths, and room designs, but it also ensures an environment that will serve you for many years to come. Along with this, your home will also be attractive to many more buyers because of these design features.
Some examples of these feature include:
- Wider doorways to bedrooms and baths.
- lever-handle door hardware.
- Door thresholds that do not require a step or provide a trip hazard.
- Master bedrooms on the first floor.
- Anti-scald tub and shower fixtures.
- Elevators from drive-under garages or from first floor to second floor.
- Barrier-free showers.
We are seeing some of these features being integrated into homes today, but there is still a lot of work needed to create further awareness.
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry, Homes Builders Association, and AARP are actively involved in providing education to remodeling contractors and builders on the importance of Universal Design. When you are thinking about your next renovation project, make sure to discuss all of your goals for your home and insure that you and your design professional are addressing not only your needs for today, but those for tomorrow.
Halloween enjoys an unrivaled reputation for decadence among the society of children. As such, adults often feel compelled to step in and moderate the fun by injecting a touch of healthfulness and frugality into the little sweet treats.
With reports every year on the declining number of trick-or-treaters, one of the most venerable traditions involved risks extinction. This may be dues, in small part, to the overzealous application of health to the holiday.
Here are 10 thirty Halloween treats to consider:
1. Temporary tattoos
2. Stickers
3. Colored chalk
4. Individually wrapped sticks of clay
5. Pennies for wishing
6. Pencils, erasers and pencil toppers
7. Noisemakers and other party favors
8. Balloons
9. Bubbles and wands
10. Chocolate (individually wrapped)
Senior Vice President, Managing Broker
Sandy Springs office
Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities (ARMHC) will host its 10th annual Brookhaven Tour of Homes & Gardens, benefiting the Atlanta Ronald McDonald House programs on Thursday October 18 from 5:30 to 9 pm and Friday, October 19 from 10 am to 2 pm. Two-day tickets are $65 in advance and $75 the day for the tour. One-day tickets are $40 in advance and $50 the day of the tour. Advanced tickets may be purchased online or by calling (404) 315-1133 ext. 19.
To commemorate the 10th anniversary of this event, RMHC has expanded the tour by adding a second day, featuring a total of nine homes and gardens including both new homes and popular homes from past tours. “The response from the Brookhaven community has been tremendous. We feel honored to showcase these extraordinary homes and landscapes in the name of ARMHC. These homeowners have graciously opened their hearts and their doors to us so that the Ronald McDonald House programs may open doors to even more families in need,” says Randall L. Allen, Brookhaven resident and Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities chairman.
The presenting sponsors of the event are Jenny Pruitt & Associates, REALTORS along with Ruth Skogstad and Kristen Sodemann of The Skogstad Team. “As a Brookhaven resident, I am a long time supporter of the tour. We hope the extended hours will increase attendance allowing us to share the beauty of Brookhaven with an even greater audience as we support one of Atlanta’s finest charities,” says Ruth Skogstad.
