When people talk about their “forever home,” they’re not just talking about a style—they’re talking about a space that evolves with their lifestyle, supports their future, and stands the test of time. A forever home is designed with intention and foresight, combining timeless design with flexible features that grow with your family and changing needs.
As a home designer in Brevard, I’ve seen firsthand how smart design choices today can eliminate costly renovations tomorrow. At Armistead Design, we help clients create homes that are both beautiful and built for the long haul. Whether you’re designing a custom home or remodeling your current one to better suit your future, here’s what to keep in mind.
Plan for Single-Level Living—Now or Later
It’s easy to assume you’ll always be able to handle stairs, but life has a way of changing our priorities. Designing a home with all essential living spaces on the first floor—such as the primary suite, kitchen, laundry, and a full bath—can offer major convenience now and crucial accessibility later.
At Armistead Design, we also work with clients on creative solutions for multi-story homes, like framing in space for a future elevator or adding a downstairs guest suite that can convert into a main bedroom later.
Prioritize Open, Accessible Spaces
An open-concept floor plan does more than look modern—it creates flexibility. Wide doorways, spacious hallways, and barrier-free layouts aren’t just good for accessibility, they also make your home feel larger and more inviting.
As a home designer in Brevard, I frequently recommend integrating wide sliding or stacking glass doors that open to lanais or covered patios. These not only enhance indoor-outdoor living (essential in Florida) but also improve mobility for all ages.
Design with Aging in Place in Mind
Future-proofing your home doesn’t mean sacrificing design. At Armistead Design, we specialize in blending style with subtle accessibility features that support aging in place while maintaining a custom look.
Some thoughtful elements to consider include:
- Zero-threshold showers with integrated benches
- Lever-style door handles instead of knobs
- Raised outlets and lower light switches for easier reach
- Non-slip flooring materials
- Layered lighting to reduce shadows and improve safety
These design features can make all the difference in long-term comfort—without looking clinical.
Build in Flexible Rooms for Life’s Changes
One of the smartest ways to make a home last is to include spaces that can change with you. A playroom today might become a home office, guest room, or even a gym in five years.
We help Brevard homeowners incorporate:
- Bonus rooms or lofts that serve multiple purposes
- Home offices with built-in storage that can double as guest space
- Attics or garages designed with future finishing in mind
With flexible planning, your home adapts to whatever life brings.
Choose Materials That Last in Brevard’s Climate
A forever home needs to hold up in Florida’s intense heat, humidity, and storms. At Armistead Design, we carefully select materials that not only look stunning but also offer long-term durability and low maintenance.
Some of our go-to choices:
- Impact-rated windows and doors for hurricane resistance
- Porcelain tile or LVP for moisture protection and easy cleaning
- Quartz countertops that resist staining and scratching
- Fiber cement siding that withstands the elements
- Metal or architectural shingle roofing with extended warranties
These details matter more than you think—and they’re what make the difference between a 10-year home and a forever home.
Make It Smart—But Simple
Modern smart home systems offer security, convenience, and energy savings, but they should be integrated in a way that’s intuitive for every stage of life. We help clients plan for systems like:
- Lighting controls with timers or voice activation
- Thermostats that learn your patterns
- Security cameras and door locks you can monitor remotely
- Outlets and switches wired for future tech upgrades
Smart design isn’t just about gadgets—it’s about making your home easier to live in now and tomorrow.
Work with Armistead Design, Your Home Designer in Brevard
If you’re ready to create a home that grows with you, it’s time to work with a home designer in Brevard who understands how to blend timeless design with future-ready planning.
At Armistead Design, we approach each project with care, insight, and decades of experience helping Brevard County residents build homes that truly last. Whether you’re starting from scratch or remodeling your current space, we’ll help you design a home that’s comfortable, stylish, and ready for all the years to come.
Ready to design your forever home? Contact Armistead Design today and let’s build something lasting.