What is an In-Law Suite

SVA Construction Corp will show you that there’s no strict definition of an in-law suite. Generally, it’s a private living area within a house. Many architects say it should have a full bathroom and a door that separates it from the rest of the home. Some designers say the private area should also have a separate entrance and kitchen, especially when the living situation will be long-term. Whether your vision is simple or complex, the experts at SVA Construction Corp have built many in-law suites in this area so they will know the local planning and subdivision regulations.

Our experience has shone us that building an In-Law suite adds peace of mind, potential savings and investment value, flexibility and emotional reward. It’s an undertaking that’s worth the effort.

Where to start an in-law addition?

In your first meeting, the careful planners at SVA Construction Corp will assess your home to determine the best possible spaces for the in-law suite. For some homes, over the garage or a porch area that can be enclosed and transformed into living space are two possibilities, basements can also be used if they have adequate outside egress.
Combining two bedrooms to create a suite is another possibility.

Every home is different and needs vary. Usually, there are many good solutions depending on living situations now and future concerns. Also remember, an in-law suite in this area could enhance sales appeal and increase your property value. As you think about your parents’ future or those of your in-laws some initial planning with SVA Construction Corp can ensure both you and your loved ones are comfortable, independent and safe.

Private Bathrooms

A private bathroom is a staple of any in-law suite. Each family is different, and elderly parents dealing with specific health concerns will be a challenge. But remember that the occupants of the suite may change, so keep the basic design and include all safety features.

The room should have the necessary supports in the walls for easy installation of handles, grab bars or safety bars at a later time. Pedestal sinks are attractive and easy to use for people with wheelchairs. Adjustable height vanities can be raised or lowered. Choose tubs that are wide enough to handle special lift seats in the future and dedicated outlets that can power a lift chair or other safety equipment. You can eliminate the tub and choose curb-less showers that are easy to use for people with limited mobility.

Kitchen Updates for In-Laws

A great addition to an in-law suite is a kitchen or kitchenette. This allows whoever is staying there to maintain some privacy, have their own space for preparing meals, and maintain independence. Choose raised cabinets with additional kick space underneath. Look for multi-level, pullout counters that can be used by people in walkers or wheelchairs. Faucets with motion sensors are also a smart investment. Induction cooktops are easy to use and safer. Look for wall ovens that can be mounted at a height that’s comfortable for people in wheelchairs. Choose base cabinets featuring drawers that pull out rather than cavernous cabinet spaces. All of these additions make the kitchen more functional for aging family members. The designers at SVA Construction Corp will help you determine what is best and most comfortable fit for you.

Plan, Design and Create In-Law Suite Today!
SVA Construction Corp, the leading group for home additions, provides customers in Washington, DC, Northern Virginia and the Maryland area with everything they need to create in-law suites to help aging parents live better. We are so proud to lead with our creativity, design and forward-thinking to help you love and enjoy your home even more. That’s why so many homeowners have called on us to start their interior design process.  

SVA Construction Corp was built on a foundation of integrity, care, and understanding. From day one our mission has been to provide superior design, remodel and construction services to customers that value their fine homes. For over 40 years we’ve strived to exceed expectations focused on professionalism, clear communication, quality, craftsmanship and meeting unique needs. For all your additions, renovations and remodeling needs, SVA Construction Corp|Design Remodel Build is the right choice. If you’d like to discuss a new project with a knowledgeable consultant, you can contact us on or website or call one of the phone numbers below:

Maryland: (301) 444-4663
Virginia: (703) 832-8159
Washington, DC: (202) 792-7320

SVA Construction Corp: The Experts in Repurposing Your Home

For over 40 years we have been redesigning, repurposing and rebuilding homes to meet a new lifestyle. The SVA Construction Corp team evaluates your existing home, use of space, and your future needs to seamlessly add or reconfigure space customized for in-law multigenerational living. Then our experienced professionals work with you every step of the way to implement your vision.

According to Barron’s, sometimes the modifications you make can also be covered by long-term care insurance.

The need for privacy

SVA Construction Corp can create a plan to provide both open shared spaces for family and social gatherings and separate private spaces for family members. Full living in law suites can also be adapted for needs as families evolve. While privacy matters, there are some other benefits to in-law multigenerational living like shared expenses. A family under one roof pays one set of bills for local town taxes, internet, water, sewer, electricity and other utilities.

Creating Your Private Bathroom

Having a private suite with a personal bathroom is a must. It produces the felt-sense of privacy within your home. Although you may not want to start with grab bars, the room should have the necessary supports in the walls for easy installation of handles and safety bars at a later time. Pedestal sinks are easier for wheelchair users, but they are still attractive. Another option is adjustable height vanities. Choose tubs that are wide enough to handle special lift seats in the future, and there should also be dedicated outlets that can power a lift chair or other safety equipment. You can also eliminate the tub completely and choose curb-less showers that are easy for people with limited mobility to use.

Kitchen Considerations

One of the great things SVA Construction Corp enjoys about creating in-law suites is customizing the space for those living within it. A kitchenette or kitchen area is another key factor. When designing the space, choose raised cabinets with additional kick space underneath. Look for multi-level, pullout counters that can be used by people in walkers or wheelchairs. Faucets with motion sensors are also a smart investment. Induction cooktops are easy to use and safer. Look for wall ovens that can be mounted at a height that’s comfortable for people in wheelchairs. Choose base cabinets featuring drawers that pull out rather than cavernous cabinet spaces. All of these additions make the kitchen more functional for aging family members.

Plan, Design and Create In-Law Multigenerational Living Today!

SVA Construction Corp| Design Remodel Build, the leading group for home design and remodeling, provides customers in Washington, DC, Northern Virginia and the Maryland area with everything they need to create in-law multigenerational living. With the young unable to afford to leave home and seniors facing the high cost assisted living and the risk of isolation, more families are opting to live together.

Many families have called on us to start the process. We are the right choice. We know what matters to you. After all, we’ve been remodeling outstanding homes and communities for over 40 years. We utilize both our experience, design and local knowledge to help you make the best choices. For all of your building, renovations and remodeling needs, SVA Construction Corp|Design Remodel Build is the right choice. If you’d like to discuss a new project with one of our knowledgeable consultants, you can contact us via our site or at one of the phone numbers below:

Maryland: (301) 444-4663
Virginia: (703) 832-8159
Washington, DC: (202) 792-7320

Aging in place is strongly linked to greater health and happiness.

Over the years your home has forged great memories with your family, friends, and loved ones. So the time to plan is now and if you live in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia or Maryland area, call SVA Construction Corp/ Design Remodel Build and age in place in your home comfortably, safely for many, many years.

SVA Construction Corp: The trusted source for home remodeling

At SVA Construction Corp we’ve learned that most people want to continue to stay where they are. Clearly, most of us are looking for the comfort, security and independence that only our home can provide. That’s why you need to go to a contractor with over 40 years of experience of getting the job done right. SVA Construction Corp knows every individual is different, every home is different and we work hard to make sure that the homeowner is comfortable with their new age in place space. Whether you’re looking for a completely remodeled home, or to remodel hardworking rooms like your kitchen and bathroom to make them safer, less complicated, and more convenient, SVA Construction Corp’s award-winning teams will build the space that’s perfectly tailored to you.

Where to start – With a Certified Aging in Place Specialist

SVA Construction Corp first started helping family’s figure out the basics of getting in and out of the house because of physical limitations. Our approach has since evolved into a careful organization script. Given the exorbitant cost of assisted living facilities, clients are increasingly asking for features that will ultimately make their own houses more accessible. That’s why we sit with clients and find their vision and work with them to make smart, practical choices. We go over everything because even the smallest details can have potentially life-saving impacts. From preventing falls through something as simple as choosing the right kind of carpet, or the proper flooring like cork, rubber, and linoleum. Because softer surfaces will be kinder to joints and won’t pose trip hazards, like high-pile or excessively padded carpets can.

Update the Kitchen

Here are some things to consider for your next kitchen remodel so that it works for you for the long haul. And many of these come in handy at any age!

Counters:
Wall support and provisions for adjustable and/or varied height counters and removable base

Cabinets:
Upper wall cabinetry three inches lower than conventional height
Accented stripes on edge of countertops to provide visual orientation to the workspace
Base cabinet with roll-out trays and lazy susans
Pull-down shelving
Glass-front cabinet doors
Open shelving for easy access to frequently used items

Appliances:
Easy to read controls
Microwave oven at counter height or in wall
Side-by-side refrigerator/freezer
Side-swing or wall oven
Raised dishwasher with push-button controls
Electric cook top with level burners for safety in transferring between the burners, front controls and downdraft feature to pull heat away from user; light to indicate when surface is hot

In Addition:
30-inch by 48-inch clear space at appliances or 60-inch diameter clear space for turns
Multi-level work areas to accommodate cooks of different heights
Open under-counter seated work areas
Placement of task lighting in appropriate work areas
Loop handles for easy grip and pull
Pull-out spray faucet; levered handles

A Father’s Day Gift
This Sunday is Father’s Day. Here’s an idea for an everlasting present. Your dad can grow old with dignity, humor, and kindness and in a place he loves- His home. He probably has his favorite chair, his favorite place on the porch, and favorite sounds of his neighborhood. Why give that up for an expensive assisted living home? Call SVA Construction Corp and give your dad the best present of all, the best place to age in place and that’s where he is right now.

Plan, Design and Create Your Home for Life Today!
SVA Construction Corp is the leading group for home design and remodeling, providing customers in Washington, DC, Northern Virginia and the Maryland area with everything they need to improve their homes from start to finish. SVA Construction Corp was built on a foundation of integrity, care, and understanding. From day one our mission was providing superior design, remodel and construction services to customers that value their fine homes. For over 40 years we’ve strived to exceed expectations focused on professionalism, clear communication, quality, craftsmanship and meeting unique needs. For all of your building, renovations and remodeling needs, SVA Construction Corp/Design Remodel Build is the right choice. If you’d like to discuss a potential project with a knowledgeable consultant you can contact us at our website or call us at one of the phone numbers below. And…Happy Fathers Day!

Maryland: (301) 444-4663
Virginia: (703) 832-8159
Washington, DC: (202) 792-7320

There are individuals that are interested in a suite, but they take pause because they are concerned about a couple of different factors. Creating an in-law suite is a great way to accommodate multiple generations in a home, while still allowing the privacy everyone desires. So what goes into creating a great in-law suite?

In-Law Suite Investment
First, there is the monetary equation, as an in-law suite is an investment on your home. SVA Construction Corp Design Build is always fair and works hard to deliver an accurate estimate regarding both time and investment. With regard to the cost, when we create in-law suites for our clients, the money often comes right back to the homeowner in the way of increased property values.

Daily Living
Secondly, the construction can require changes to your daily living routines, so it’s important to minimize the time and work out solutions to any construction issues ahead of time. We strive for top-notch work on every level, and have very efficient processes, so we can complete our projects in a timely manner.

Design
This is an architectural approach that allows for aging in place, so we understand exactly how to custom craft in-law suites that accommodate the respective needs of each of our clients. When we take on an assignment, we evaluate the existing space, and we consider the potential that is there.

For in-law suites additions, SVA Construction Corp Design Build is the only logical choice. We have been building our reputation for excellence for over 40 years and counting, and we take our responsibility to the community very seriously. Our company has won many awards from industry publications over the years, and we continue to enjoy humbling recognition year after year.

Many people try to get by with limited space as their family grows, and this can make for some very uncomfortable living. Siblings can share a room for a while, but at some point, privacy becomes necessary. And of course, many college students remain home for monetary reasons, and this can definitely present a space problem.

Under these circumstances, a move into a bigger place of residence may come to mind, but the in-law suites residents can obtain from us can be a better solution. We have a thorough understanding of the architecture in this area, because we have been serving the community for so long. Our design build experts know exactly how to create the ideal in-law suites that fit seamlessly into your existing structure.

In-law suites can be perfect for family members that are going to live in the home full-time, but there are other applications. A guest room is just that, but a fully appointed mini-apartment takes the comfort to another level. This type of space is ideal for people that enjoy entertaining family members and friends during holidays and other parts of the year.

Take Action Today!

If you would like to discuss in-law suites or other home additions projects with a knowledgeable member of our team, we can be reached by phone at 301-444-4663. There is also a contact form on this website that you can use to send us a message.

While these homeowners loved their neighborhood, their home lacked the functionality, modern amenities and design touches that they desired. And thinking toward the future, incorporating accessible amenities with a modern and beautiful look was also very important to them. A 1940’s Cape Cod, the house was cramped and tight with narrow doorways and tight hallways. The décor was dated and lacked modern flare.

Based on the homeowners needs and desires the goals for this CotY (Contractor of the Year) award-winning project were to add an overall modern and updated feel to the home both inside and out, add space, increase the flow and functionality of the existing space, create a first floor bedroom for single-level living, and create an accessible entry from the driveway to accommodate potential future needs.

On the exterior, curved dormers and a front portico add a modern flare. Because the front yard has a steep drop off to the street, an accessible entry in the front didn’t make sense. Instead, a new rear ramp was created connecting the driveway to an accessible no-step entry. An addition off the back of the home with a clean, modern design provided ample room to navigate a wheelchair should the need arise.

A new, open concept kitchen features open shelving for easy access and visibility, pull out drawers, ample workspace, and a raised oven. A Thermador induction cooktop was selected to avoid accidental burning of arms when reaching over the cooktop from a seated position. Front controls for a motorized vent allow for use from a seated position.

A central vacuum system was installed throughout the home with concealed extractable hosing up to 45ft for ease of keeping up with cleaning and minimal effort in only needing to bring a collapsible attachment to each room.

A redesigned front living room was opened up with the removal of a wall. A television mounted with an adjustable arm allows for various comfortable viewing positions.

In the bathroom the vanity that was selected can be completely removed, leaving the wall mounted sink and countertop to allow full access for a roll under wheelchair in the future. Ample space was provided on both sides of the toilet to allow for after market medical devices and toilet chairs for handicap toilet use as the client did not want grab bars but they can easily be installed later. A wall-mounted toilet was set for the homeowners’ height preference with a full bidet. And finally, an adjustable shower arm makes it easy to reach controls.

With thoughtful design focused on future needs as the homeowners age, this home is now not only beautiful and modern, but is complete with the functionality necessary for this to be the forever home the homeowner’s desired.

Think about location

There are often many options for where to build your in-law suite depending on your home and lot. You can transform your garage or porch area into an enclosed space. You can design an addition onto your home.  You can combine existing rooms in your home such as a living room and dining room.

Think about functionality

Keep in mind who will be using your new space and anticipate the needs they will have now and in the future.  Will they need wider doors and hallways? Could they use assisted baths with lever handles and stylish guardrails? How about no-slip flooring and no-curb showers? The possibilities are virtually endless.

Think about decor

If your relatives aren’t planning to move in permanently or they won’t move in for a while, it’s important to keep everyone in mind with the decor of your addition. Keeping things neutral, from flooring, to curtains, to wall color, will allow personal touches to be added by those that use the space.

One possibility is transforming a garage or a porch area into living space. A basement can be another great option as long as it has adequate outside egress. Combining two bedrooms to create a suite could be another opportunity. A third garage bay can be converted into a separate apartment-type living space with its own access. You can also consider replacing or eliminating an underused first-floor living space, such as a formal living room or dining room. Creating a suite in a bonus room over the garage is another popular direction. Working with an experienced designer will allow you to explore which direction would work best for you and your home.

There are many options for finding space to incorporate an in-law suite into a single-family home. Some of the most popular are redoing the basement or lower level, building an addition or bump out or adding a separate structure. In addition to the convenience they can provide for your family, in-law suites can also be great in terms of resale value. Keeping accessibility in mind is key to building a functional space. Including features such as roll out drawers and task lighting in the kitchen, and curb-less showers and grab bars in the bathroom are important considerations. With the variety of options available today, accessible features not only provide functionality but beauty as well. 

Staying in our homes as we age often requires modifications. Some things to consider as family members—or even you—think about staying at home would be installing a no-step shower, grab bars and grips in the bathroom; having proper lighting inside and outside; and reducing the number of steps or decreasing step height. You’ll want a first floor master suite and multi-level or seated food prep areas in the kitchen. For those who strive to be independent, good planning and smart home design are tools that make living-in-place realistic.

First Floor Master Suite. A first floor master suite provides single floor living with a bedroom, bathroom, living room and kitchen all on one floor.

Elevator Rough-In. If you are planning on adding space to your home now, think about incorporating a rough-in for an elevator. It’s much easier to do as you are building than to add later.

Bathroom and Kitchen Features. Incorporating a curbless shower or grab bars in the bathroom or roll out drawers in the kitchen are great features to consider. Not only will they potentially be helpful down the road, but are nice features to have at any age.

]]>