Building a custom home is an opportunity to create your forever home—a place designed for every stage of life. ICF construction combined with universal design principles creates a durable, comfortable, low-maintenance home you'll never need to leave.
What Is Universal Design?
Universal design creates spaces that work for everyone, regardless of age or ability, without looking institutional or "accessible." Features like wider doorways, single-floor living, curbless showers, and lever door handles benefit everyone while ensuring the home remains functional as residents age or experience mobility changes.
Why ICF for Your Forever Home
ICF construction aligns perfectly with forever-home goals. These homes are built to last 100+ years with minimal maintenance, so you're not facing major repairs in your 70s and 80s. Energy efficiency keeps utility costs manageable on fixed retirement incomes. The quiet, comfortable environment supports wellbeing at any age.
Perhaps most importantly, ICF's structural strength means you can incorporate universal design features like roll-in showers, wider hallways, and open floor plans without compromising the building's integrity.
Essential Universal Design Features
Single-Floor Living: The primary bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and laundry should all be accessible on one level. ICF's open spans make this easy to achieve without cramped layouts.
Zero-Step Entry: At least one entrance should have no steps, allowing easy access for wheelchairs, walkers, or simply carrying groceries.
Wide Doorways and Hallways: 36-inch doorways and 42-inch hallways accommodate mobility devices and are simply more comfortable for everyone.
Accessible Bathrooms: Curbless showers, blocking for future grab bars, comfort-height toilets, and adequate maneuvering space prepare for future needs while looking elegant today.
Kitchen Accessibility: Varied counter heights, pull-out shelves, and adequate clearances create a kitchen that works whether you're standing, sitting, or using mobility aids.
Comfort Features for Aging Well
ICF homes provide inherent comfort advantages for aging residents. Consistent temperatures eliminate cold drafts and hot spots that can affect older adults more acutely. Superior sound isolation creates a peaceful environment for rest and recovery. The filtered air from ERV ventilation systems supports respiratory health.
Safety and Security
ICF homes are inherently safe: fire-resistant walls, storm-resistant construction, and no concerns about termites or structural deterioration. For aging homeowners who may not be able to evacuate quickly during emergencies, living in a disaster-resistant structure provides genuine peace of mind.
Low Maintenance Living
Concrete walls don't need repainting, don't develop cracks from settling, and don't attract pests. The reduced maintenance burden of ICF construction is a significant quality-of-life benefit for aging homeowners who want to enjoy their home rather than constantly maintain it.
Design Your Forever Home
Contact Austin Touchstone Builders to discuss building an ICF home designed for lifelong comfort.
Schedule ConsultationOr call us: 512-428-6224