Adaptable housing is 'housing for life'. It can accommodate anybody, allowing for diverse needs, lifestyles and age groups—for now and the future.
For as little as 2-6% of the cost of construction, these principles can be incorporated into a new home. Great benefits are delivered on 2 levels.
Firstly, it provides for changing needs of a family over time. This can range from the needs of a family with a new-born, someone starting a business from home, an ageing couple or someone who develops a disability (temporary or otherwise).
Secondly, the property (and therefore re-sale) value can be higher because it can be easily adapted to the needs of new occupants at minimum cost—always a huge consideration when people purchase a home.
Aspects of adaptable housing design that need to be taken into consideration are discussed in the rest of this section. You may also like to download the following brochures.
Adaptable Housing provides an overview and example of the adaptable housing concept.
Housing for Life
Part 1 Part 2 Part 3
This guide will help people who are:
- thinking about alterations or modifications to their home;
- deciding if they should stay in their current home or move to a more suitable home; or
- looking to build a new home.
Although directed at veterans, it is relevant to all Australians.