We Asked Designers How to Design a Home You’ll Love into Retirement—And We Loved Their Advice

Over the past few years, one design trend we’ve loved to watch evolve is a shift toward multi-purpose spaces that can evolve with a homeowner’s ever-changing lifestyles. 

These homes cater to a person or couple’s need for a place that can grow with them, from small children to visiting parents and loved ones to their own retirement. But how can one space accommodate all the aspects of adult life?

It’s not an easy feat, but it’s certainly achievable—especially if you plan carefully.

Prioritize Timeless Foundations

The most beautiful, long-lasting homes are often built on a timeless foundation, says interior designer and futurist Steven Graffam. This is the best way to ensure your home won’t quickly shift out of style.

Then, once the foundation is laid correctly, you can work in trendier pieces that might be more specific to the current time.

“Layer in trends with rugs, lighting, and accessories that are easy to refresh as your style evolves,” says Graffam. 

To begin, consider neutral color palettes for the rooms that you can then enhance with classic furniture and timeless finishes that are sure to last.

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Create a Thoughtful Layout

As a part of your timeless foundation, Graffam says it’s also important to consider a thoughtful layout. In doing so, your goal should be to create a natural ease and flow to your home that’s intuitive and manageable for all ages.

“Accessible kitchens and bathrooms and flexible, multi-use spaces pay off later, making your home comfortable, safe, and stylish well into retirement,” he explains. 

Invest in High-Quality Pieces

If you want something to last a long time, it needs to be high quality. In most cases, higher quality items will cost more, but don’t see it as a loss. Instead, designer John Stivale says you should see it as an investment that should hopefully last decades.

“Investing in quality means your pieces and finishes will last longer, look better over time, and adapt gracefully as your style evolves,” Stivale says. “True longevity starts with smart choices.”

Focus on the Areas You Want to Last

There are some pieces you can’t expect to last thirty years, unfortunately. Your soft goods, for example, will need to be updated over the years no matter how much you spend now.

But if you’re finishing your home with longevity in mind, it’s a good idea to focus on the elements you’re sure should exist solidly for decades. This might also be helpful in allocating your budget, as these are elements that are also likely to be costly.

As Graffam points out, flooring, countertops, and cabinetry are all important, and it’s reasonable to expect you won’t need to replace them anytime soon.

“These are the pieces that define your home and will stand the test of time,” he explains.

Buy Versatile Furniture

Once your timeless foundation is established and set, you can layer in other elements that may or may not follow the trends. But even if you’re looking for shorter term items, Stivale says it’s still a good idea to add in versatile furniture that can adapt to your lifestyle as it changes.  

“Layer in elements like flexible seating, multi-use spaces, and easy-to-update finishes,” says Stivale. “This way, your home evolves with your family without needing major renovations.”

Graffam agrees, noting that adaptable furniture pieces are items that should evolve with your aesthetic, and serve multiple purposes. When shopping for pieces that fit this concept, it’s important to keep a few things in mind.

“Choose neutral, durable finishes, modular furniture, and versatile storage,” he says. “These foundational choices let the room evolve without a full overhaul.”