As retirement approaches, many homeowners begin to reassess how their living spaces support long-term comfort, safety, and ease of use. For retirees in Herriman, Utah—where the landscape offers beautiful views and peaceful living—a thoughtfully remodeled basement can provide not just extra space, but a personalized retreat built for convenience, accessibility, and independence.

Aging in place is becoming a priority for more older adults who want to remain in their homes rather than move into retirement communities or assisted living. The basement, often underutilized, presents a unique opportunity to support that goal. When designed with care and function in mind, it can be transformed into a comfortable, age-friendly living area that complements a main-level lifestyle.

At ElkStone Basements, we understand the priorities of older homeowners and their families. With decades of experience serving communities like Herriman, we specialize in remodeling spaces that balance form, function, and style—helping you stay in the home you love with confidence.

Why the Basement Matters for Aging in Place

Many homes in Herriman are built with unfinished or partially finished basements. This unused square footage is a valuable asset for retirees looking to customize their environment for future needs. A remodeled basement can serve as:

• A private living suite for independent daily living
• A guest area for visiting family or caregivers
• A quiet hobby or reading space
• A home gym or wellness area
• A caregiver quarters for in-home assistance in later years

Remodeling your basement also future-proofs your home. By integrating aging-in-place design features now, you reduce the need for costly modifications later. It’s a proactive approach that promotes comfort, security, and continued independence.

Age-Friendly Design Essentials: Safe and Stylish

At ElkStone Basements, our design process is grounded in accessibility, safety, and aesthetics. Age-friendly doesn’t mean institutional—it means intentional. Here are the key features we recommend incorporating for a supportive yet beautiful basement environment:

Step-Free Access and Smooth Transitions

Mobility can become more challenging with age. Ensuring barrier-free entry into the basement is a top priority. In some Herriman homes, this may involve installing a residential lift or chairlift system. Where walk-out basements exist, zero-step entry is ideal.

Within the space itself:

• Use flush thresholds between flooring types
• Avoid thick rugs or transitions that may cause tripping
• Design open pathways for wheelchair or walker access

Bright, Layered Lighting

Good lighting is essential to reduce falls and eye strain. We recommend a combination of:

• Recessed LED ceiling lights
• Motion-sensor floor lighting
• Task lighting near reading or work areas

Natural lighting also plays an important role. If your basement has above-ground windows, consider installing larger egress windows that offer both light and emergency exits.

Non-Slip, Low-Maintenance Flooring

Basement flooring should offer both style and safety. We often recommend:

• Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) for its slip resistance and easy cleaning
• Low-pile carpeting in bedrooms or sitting areas
• Anti-fatigue mats in standing areas like laundry rooms

Hard surfaces should have a matte finish to avoid glare, which can affect depth perception.

Accessible Bathroom Design

If your remodel includes a bathroom, ElkStone designs them with both comfort and safety in mind:

• Walk-in showers with seating and handheld showerheads
• Grab bars are built into the design for support
• Comfort-height toilets for easier transfers
• Lever-style faucets and wide-door entryways

These features support safe, independent use while still maintaining a spa-like look and feel.

Easy-to-Reach Storage and Controls

Cabinetry and storage should be placed within easy reach, without requiring step stools or bending. Consider:

• Pull-out drawers instead of deep cabinets
• Pantry-height closets
• Light switches and thermostats installed at accessible heights

We also recommend smart home integrations, such as voice-activated controls or programmable lighting, for additional ease.

Lifestyle-Driven Basement Ideas for Retirees

Beyond the essentials, many Herriman homeowners use their basement remodel as an opportunity to create meaningful and enjoyable spaces tailored to their post-retirement lifestyle. ElkStone Basements often incorporates:

A Comfortable In-Law Suite

For retirees who host visiting children or plan for live-in caregivers in the future, a self-contained suite provides privacy and flexibility. These suites can include:

• A full bedroom
• Private bathroom
• Sitting area
• Optional kitchenette

A Creative Hobby Room

From quilting and crafts to music or painting, dedicated hobby rooms support purposeful living. These spaces benefit from:

• Natural light
• Custom storage
• Ergonomic seating

A Home Wellness Area

Staying active and healthy is essential in retirement. Consider creating:

• A yoga or stretching studio
• An exercise room with balance bars
• A private space for physical therapy or massage chairs

A Cozy Library or Media Room

Quiet comfort is often a top priority. A reading nook with built-in bookshelves or a small home theater with sound-dampening design can turn your basement into a tranquil retreat.

Herriman’s Housing Profile: What Local Retirees Value

Herriman offers a unique blend of suburban calm and community connection. With newer developments, many homeowners already have spacious basements, making remodeling more cost-efficient and less invasive.

Retirees in Herriman often value:

• Peaceful surroundings for relaxation
• Space for family visits
• Long-term homeownership stability
• Proximity to healthcare and services

ElkStone designs each remodel to reflect those values—helping you turn your basement into a long-term haven rather than a short-term fix.

The ElkStone Basements Approach to Age-Friendly Design

Our process starts with listening. We take the time to understand your needs, lifestyle, and long-term plans. Every basement remodel includes:

• Accessibility planning from the start
• Custom designs that don’t compromise on style
• Local permit compliance and building code adherence
• Clear timelines and support every step of the way

We believe in building spaces that support your independence, enhance your quality of life, and reflect your personal style. Aging in place should be empowering, not limiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remodel my Herriman basement even if it’s unfinished?

Yes. Many Herriman homes have unfinished basements with excellent potential. ElkStone specializes in full-service remodeling—from framing and insulation to design and accessibility integration.

What makes a basement age-friendly?

Key features include step-free access, accessible bathrooms, good lighting, non-slip flooring, and smart layouts. We tailor each design to meet your specific health and mobility needs.

Do I have to sacrifice style for accessibility?

Not at all. Our age-friendly designs are modern, elegant, and customized. You can enjoy beautiful finishes that also support comfort and safety.

How long does a basement remodel take?

Timelines vary depending on scope, but most remodels are completed in a few weeks. We offer flexible scheduling and communicate clearly throughout the process.

Will I need permits to remodel my basement in Herriman?

Yes. Permits are required for structural, plumbing, and electrical work. ElkStone handles all permitting to ensure your remodel meets Herriman’s building standards.

Creating a comfortable, accessible, and beautiful basement is one of the most rewarding steps you can take in preparing for retirement living. With the right design, your basement becomes more than an extra room—it becomes an extension of your lifestyle, your independence, and your home.

If you’re ready to explore how your basement can support aging in place, ElkStone Basements is here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s build a space where you can thrive—with dignity, comfort, and style.