Creating a Comfortable Home: Assisted Living Design Tips

More specifically, moving to a high-quality assisted living community like BridgeWater Assisted Living in Castle Rock, CO, means you will have time to explore your hobbies and passions thanks to the luxury of maintenance-free living. Housekeeping and linen service, chauffeured transportation, and delicious dining options are all provided; all you have to do is enjoy!

Creating a comfortable and inviting home can also make the transition easier. Below are some design tips and things to consider as you settle into your new home.

Plan It Out Ahead Of Time

Before you move, it’s important to have an idea of what furnishings and essentials you will need. If possible, try to make a detailed floor plan showing your apartment’s layout. For example, seniors who choose BridgeWater Assisted Living at Castle Rock, CO, can access floor plans online of the assisted living apartments, which range in size from studios to two bedrooms. It might also be helpful to schedule a tour to see your chosen apartment in person, take measurements, and get a better idea of specific dimensions.

Although bringing along as much of your furniture as possible can be tempting, the space will be more functional, and you’ll actually be more comfortable if you don’t overcrowd it. Having measurements beforehand will help ensure your furniture pieces will fit appropriately and won’t overwhelm the room. 

It can be helpful to make a list of essentials and think about how everything will fit together. Most people include things like:

• Couch or cushioned chairs – make sure you have enough seating for game nights and entertaining visitors but also enough room to move around easily
• Side or end table – these are usually preferable to coffee tables that take up a lot of room
• Comfortable reading chair – recliners may be comfy, but a smaller chair with an ottoman might be a better choice
• Small kitchen table and chairs – oval or round tables usually work best; avoid heavy glass tops
• Bed – moving can be a good excuse to get a new mattress, which can make a world of difference in your sleep quality
• Desk – whether in your bedroom or the living room, a desk is useful for writing letters, paying bills, or surfing the internet on your laptop
• Dresser – if there’s enough closet space for your clothes, a dresser can also hold linens
• Table lamps – adequate lighting is important, but be sure to keep cords out of any walking areas
• Dishes, drinkware, silverware, and basic cooking utensils – most apartments at BridgeWater Assisted Living in Castle Rock, CO, include a kitchenette, so don’t forget your pots and pans

If you are downsizing from a larger home, moving is always a good chance to sell, donate, or pass along furniture and other items you don’t want or need. For instance, many kitchen items like baking dishes, fine china dining sets, or extra dishes and silverware would be greatly appreciated by a young couple just starting out or a grandchild going to college.

Consider What Sparks Joy

Do you have a favorite coffee mug from your trip to Niagara Falls? An afghan you crocheted in your favorite colors? That weird lamp shaped like a cat? Sometimes, it’s the little things that bring us the most joy. Along with photographs of loved ones and pictures for the wall, be sure to include space for the personal items that make your home uniquely yours.

If you have a hobby like painting, playing guitar, knitting, or jigsaw puzzles, include a dedicated space to store the tools you need, like a basket underneath your desk or in the corner of the living room. The amenities and services available in assisted living mean you will have much more leisure time to pursue these hobbies and explore some new ones.

Cultivate Your Green Thumb

Adding green plants or flowers to your living space is a great way to brighten up any room and keep things fresh. If you don’t want to be bothered caring for plants, succulents thrive indoors and need little attention. You might even think about artificial flowers for a pop of color on a high shelf. 

New Home, New You

Moving gives you a chance to change things up a little bit. New towels, new sheets, or even new furniture can all add a touch of excitement and fun to your move. 

One of the easiest places to make a significant change is your bedding. Replacing your old comforter with something soft and textured in a luxurious fabric in a soothing green or blue might be just what you need for a great night’s sleep to feel like a whole new you.

Make The Most Of The Space

Where possible, consider multifunctional pieces to maximize your space. For instance, a bench at the foot of the bed can offer seating and include storage space under the seat. Some bookcases are now available with drop-down desks built in. This floor lamp incorporates a lamp and side table all in one. Prioritizing function and creative storage solutions will go a long way toward keeping your living space uncluttered. 

Keep It Cozy

Soft pillows on your bed and couch, gauzy curtains, and warm throws are all ways to add color and interest and make your home an inviting space. Focus on textures, patterns, and colors that are visually pleasing to you. Small accent pieces like a candy dish, a vase full of flowers, and your favorite books also make your new space feel homey. Don’t forget about board games and card games so you’ll always be ready to welcome visitors and friends.

Find Your New Home At BridgeWater!

If you’re ready to see all the benefits of assisted living, we would love for you to consider BridgeWater Assisted Living. Once you’ve chosen your floor plan, come see us in person so you can start designing your new home!