home for 2 ladies in their 70s

5 years ago

My sister and I are thinking of living together instead of having separate homes now that we are in are 70s. I am looking for design ideas that would give us a common space (maybe kitchen, lounge, dining room) and separate spaces (our own room and bathroom facilities and maybe a small nook for a desk or hobby). We would not want a big home but would like to achieve a feeling of a little independence of choice in our own area. We are also thinking that maybe the garage area could contain the laundry/storage area for bulky objects such as suitcases. We would welcome design suggestions

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oklouise

5 years ago

sounds idyllic and could be an ideal way to combine resources and start a whole new life..do you have an idea of budget as a standard 2 bed 2 bath 2 car house will give you a starting point but my initial thoughts would be to aim for a location with easy access to the local town with rail and/or bus for occasional visits to the city, local medical, banking, shopping and social activities a flat block of land with rear north orientation to aim for "equal" best rooms so that both the private and public areas will be equally comfortable all year and there could be two "lady suites" with attached bed sitting rooms that could include a sofa bed for overnight visitors (add a hallway to create separate bedrooms) garaging for two cars will provide extra storage and space for garden equipment with the laundry connecting to the house for undercover same level access..it's such an exciting prospect but as usual budget will control the final options and strongly advise that you also seek legal advice to make sure everyone understands the finances for now and into the future...this is a rough version of a plan i designed for a retirement home on acreage that would fit on a 20 m wide block and you should check yourhome.gov for specific advice about passive solar benefits for building...look forward to hearing about your progress, best of luck

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Comments (7)

oklouise
5 years ago
first describe the climate where you want to live and do you already have a block of land?
Maureen Connolly
Original Author
5 years ago
thank you for coming back to me. We live in Victoria, Australia warm to hot summers and rain and cool winters. I have only just started the journey on this proposed change of lifestyle and haven't as yet looked at land though it would most likely be in a small village/town setting
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me me
5 years ago
Perhaps you could get a duplex. Complete separate residences but could spend as much time togather as you want.
siriuskey
5 years ago
It would so much easier to find a house that could be easily adjusted to accommodate your needs, building a new home is very involved and takes a lot of time
Maureen Connolly
Original Author
5 years ago
thank you for your input
PRO
MRA Ltd
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
How exciting, and a great plan for living independently while releasing some equity to enjoy life and achieve companionship. Co-Living is an idea that is likely to be a solution for many family types as housing costs increase and available land decreases.

I think you are on the right track looking to build what suits you - otherwise someone will be in the second-best spaces in a home not built for sharing. (You'll also be future proofing your build for changing circumstances too). The key will be to include some flexible spaces (particularly with a second living/guest room space plus laundry/storage as you suggest) that will give you the function you need, while providing separate bed/living suites ensuring each of you has your own spaces to decorate and relax in. Spaces don't have to be Big. Start by making a list of what you each need/want, and the things that you are happy to share.

home for 2 ladies in their 70s

oklouise

Comments (7)

oklouise

Maureen Connolly
Original Author

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home for 2 ladies in their 70s

oklouise

Comments (7)

oklouise

Maureen ConnollyOriginal Author

Related Discussions

me me

siriuskey

Maureen ConnollyOriginal Author

MRA Ltd

COMPANY

EXPLORE HOUZZ

CONNECT WITH US

Maureen Connolly
Original Author

Maureen Connolly
Original Author