Whether AGING IN PLACE or undertaking a NEW CONSTRUCTION, Amity Construction & Design will make it HOME.

In today’s world, many empty nesters are considering selling their current homes and downsizing to smaller and more accessible living accommodations.

As popular as this scenario has become, it is not for everyone. Many couples just do not want to relocate, often because they have developed an emotional attachment to their home and enjoy their neighborhood.

With 35 years under its toolbelt, there are few situations that Amity Construction & Design has not encountered. For empty nesters seeking new construction, Amity has created Benton’s Knoll, a planned residential development in Guilford that offers quality construction; unique, creative floor plans; one-level living; and amenities and features that allow for aging in place.

Understanding that new construction is not always the answer, Amity also has considerable experience helping clients prepare for future aging in place in their current homes.

A project that Amity just completed is a perfect example of the company’s ability to listen, to make adjustments, and to provide a truly creative solution for clients.

Russ Smith of Amity originally met with the clients to discuss the potential for building a new home in Benton’s Knoll. These new houses provided the single-level living and all of the conveniences and amenities these empty nesters were seeking. There was just one thing missing from the wish list – the views provided by their current home.

Russ suggested a visit to their current home to see what, if anything, could be done to keep them in their present home while satisfying their needs for today and the future.

After considering several design concepts, Amity developed changes to the floor plan and bedroom that actually improved the opportunity for views from both the front and rear of the home. New decks and porches were added, an addition was placed at an angle to fully take advantage of the views, and outdoor amenities were added. A sitting area patio with gardens and plantings created new “outdoor” living spaces to fully enjoy the beautiful views and peaceful setting.

Amity not only prepared the clients’ home to meet their present and future needs, but also exceeded expectations by finding ways to enhance the breathtaking panorama. What is the takeaway? “Sometimes where we are is our best place to stay,” said Smith. “In those cases, a creative and experienced eye is needed to see what can be done to the existing situations to improve and satisfy possible lifestyle changes.”

So, if you have been thinking about downsizing or providing for future lifestyle needs, perhaps staying at “home sweet home” is an option to consider instead moving to a new and a different location.

Give Amity a call at 860-434-5500 to discuss your goals with them and, maybe, just maybe, how some creative design and thinking can incorporate those needs into your current home. You can also visit Amity on the web at www. amitycd.com or stop by their showroom in the Old Lyme Marketplace.

As you consider future needs, keep in mind that the concept of aging in place does not compel clients to remain in their full-time residence. Amity sees more and more clients contemplating the renovation of an existing cottage or other vacation property to downsize and/or prepare for future living needs. These cottage renovations can run anywhere from simple interior modifications and additions to full teardowns and re-builds to satisfy town code requirements or flood requirements.