When you think of improvements to add to your home, you might consider monetary value or aesthetic features first. However, quality of life is also an important consideration when updating or renovating your home. Adding useful, functional features can make your life more enjoyable and even improve your health. Here are five home improvements that can make your life a little easier.
1. Storage System
Studies have linked excess clutter to everything from elevated cortisol and weight gain to social isolation and poor money management. Taking the opportunity during a renovation to clean out some of your belonging can help you end your cluttered days. However, you don’t have to throw away everything. A closet storage system can corral your clutter and keep all your treasured belongings organized. The expansion of a house, or even just the reorganizing of a room, can give you the space for more shelving, an extra closet, or some drawers. If you want to expand your media collection, have extra space for clothes, or just some extra negative space, a new storage system can go a long way.
2. Tank-less Water Heater
Do you hate it when you eagerly hop into the shower only to be met by ice-cold water? Replace your hot water tank with a tank-less heater for instantly hot water every time you turn on the faucet. Tank-less heaters also shave money off your utility bill, are more environmentally friendly, and free up closet space. They do, however, cost more upfront. Though they will save money in the long run, the initial cost might dissuade you. You can also decide between an electric or gas tank-less water heater. Electric is more efficient, but might not last as long.
3. Hot Tub or Spa
There’s nothing like a hot bath after a long, stressful day. Adding a hot tub or spa to your home offers many benefits like stress reduction, muscle stimulation, pain relief and better sleep. Luxurious spas, such as Marquis Spas, may also add a couple thousand dollars to your home’s value, which makes them a good investment for both your health and your bank account. It’s something that can do a great deal to your daily routine, helping you relax and unwind at the end of a working day.
4. Wall Oven
Reaching down to access your oven can be a pain in the back and increase your risk of burns. Swap that old range for a wall-mounted oven or two for a safer, more ergonomic kitchen. You’ll save your back and be inspired to cook more meals at home, which comes with health benefits like lower body weight and better nutrition. As you renovate your home, find ways to make moving around your home more easily. Even small positioning things like this, as well as getting better equipment, can enable you cook more home meals and enjoy being in your home more.
5. Attached Garage
The trek from your parking spot to your front door can feel like climbing Mount Everest during a blizzard or thunderstorm. Walking on icy sidewalks also puts you at risk of falling and sustaining a serious injury. Add an attached garage to your home so you can come and go in safety and comfort. You’ll also enjoy fewer muddy messes to mop up and spend less time scraping ice off your windshield. The garage is also a great storage space, especially for things you wouldn’t want to keep in your home proper.
Homes are meant to live in. Therefore, remember to put functionality and quality of life first when deciding which improvements to include in your renovation plans. A feature that adds a few dollars to your home’s value isn’t worth adding if it compromises your family’s comfort. You are the person who will best know your family’s needs and wants. The above suggestions will definitely improve your quality of life, but also might not be the right fit for you at this particular moment. The principles therein however, will stand no matter your circumstance. Find ways to get rid of items you don’t need, to consulate space, and upgrade your home with an eye toward your health. These suggestions will definitely help you as to seek to create a better home.