Designing Your Dream Home as an Empty Nester
A few years ago, after raising four amazing kids, I became an empty nester (or “Bird Launcher” in Mel Robbins’ words). Initially, the change felt lonely, but it didn’t take long for me to really enjoy this time of my life. I saw it as the “next chapter,” a chapter filled with new adventures, a chance to do what I wanted, and an exploratory time of life.
Entering this empty nest phase has been like opening a fresh chapter filled with possibilities. With my children off on their own adventures, it has been a perfect time to rethink my living space and how it can better reflect my unique lifestyle and preferences. It can be the same for you! Whether you’re considering downsizing, renovating, or starting anew, this is your chance to create a sanctuary that feels more like you and reflects this new period of your life.
Those family-centric designs of the past may no longer resonate with you. Now could be your chance to indulge in features you’ve always wanted. Imagine cozy reading nooks, exquisite gourmet kitchens (where the only mess is your culinary genius), and walls filled with vibrant art that you absolutely love and that speaks to your style and interests.
Think how you spend your time now. Are you a backyard gardener, growing herbs to add a dash of fancy to your cooking? Would you like to host intimate gatherings, or maybe you want to pursue new creative hobbies? Your home should reflect these passions. With multi-purpose rooms that can turn into a yoga studio one minute and an art gallery the next, embrace this chance to design a personal sanctuary where each nook tells your unique story.
Let’s explore some ways that we could reimagine our homes:
Emphasizing Functionality for this New Chapter
As your lifestyle shifts, so should your home. Now is the time to focus on creating functional spaces that serve you in this exciting new phase of life:
Multi-Purpose Spaces: You no longer need rooms for kids’ activities or oversized play areas. Instead, consider flexible spaces that can serve multiple functions, such as a home office that doubles as a hobby room or a guest room that can be easily converted into a personal library. Celebrate versatility in your design!
Smaller, More Efficient Footprint: Downsizing doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. Many empty nesters find that a smaller, well-designed home is far easier to maintain yet still provides plenty of space to relax and entertain. Focus on quality over quantity by choosing functional rooms tailored to your needs.
Aging in Place Considerations: While you may feel as spry as ever, it’s wise to incorporate design elements that allow you to age gracefully in your home. This can include subtle, stylish updates like curbless showers, wider doorways, or even adding a primary suite on the main floor to avoid future stair-climbing. A current client of mine added an elevator to her split-level home to better manage stairs if the time should come that they would need it.
Invest in Luxury Where it Matters.
With the kids gone, it’s time to pamper yourself with those luxury touches you put on the back burner:
High-Quality Furnishings: Whether renovating or building anew, it’s time to invest in quality pieces. Think luxurious sofas that beg you to sink into them, custom cabinetry that elevates your kitchen, and fabulous lighting. Choose pieces that bring comfort and elegance to your home while also standing the test of time.
Custom Design: Personalization is essential when creating a home that reflects your identity. Consider custom-built features and high-end finishes that combine your personality with function. It’s the little things, like a wine nook that holds your favorites or an art corner that screams, “This is where the magic happens!”
Spa-Like Bathrooms and Kitchens: Your bathroom and kitchen should feel like a wellness retreat. Think walk-in showers that could double as a mini spa or a kitchen where chopping veggies is more of a culinary concert. High-end appliances and innovative layouts will transform you from a home cook to the winner of the British bake-off. One of my favorite things to do as a designer is to make a space more functional. I recently created a new space plan for a client. By moving a few walls and some plumbing, we turned her outdated Primary bathroom from a tub/shower and no closet to a bathroom with a huge walk-in shower, a private toilet, a large vanity with a make-up desk, and a large walk-in closet. Talk about luxury!
Your Own Spa-Like Bathroom Retreat
We turned this outdated bathroom into a beautiful oasis complete with a walk in shower, a free standing tub, double vanity and huge walk in closet.
Bring Personal Style to the Forefront
Now that your home is no longer dictated by the practical needs of raising a family, it’s the perfect time to embrace your own design aesthetic:
A Home That Reflects Your Identity: Your home should reflect your unique tastes. Whether you lean toward sleek modern designs or cozy rustic charm, don’t be afraid to let your style shine through. After all, this home is all about you now.
A Shift in Design Aesthetic: Our tastes often evolve as we age. Maybe you once loved bold colors and patterns, but now you crave a more neutral, calming palette. Or you’re drawn to natural materials and textures that bring warmth and sophistication. Whatever your aesthetic, now is the time to create spaces that feel authentically you.
Outdoor Living: Creating an Outdoor Retreat
Relax and Entertain Outdoors
Many of us love to move the cooking and entertaining outside when we can. An outdoor kitchen, as well as ample seating and a dining table, would be the perfect setup to make regular dinners outside a must!
And let’s not forget about your outdoor oasis! Make those spaces just as inviting as your inside, especially if you enjoy entertaining or relaxing outdoors:
Outdoor Spaces for Entertaining or Relaxing: Whether it’s a cozy patio with a fire pit or an expansive deck for entertaining, outdoor living is a priority for many empty nesters. Create a space that allows you to enjoy the outdoors year-round, whether hosting friends or just unwinding with a good book.
Low-Maintenance Landscaping: Who wants to spend their empty-nest years doing endless yard work. Choose gorgeous yet low-key landscaping—think native plants and automated irrigation. You shouldn’t have to work hard to enjoy your lush escape!
Designing Inviting Spaces for Guests
While your home should be focused on your needs, it’s also a good idea to consider how to make it a welcoming haven for friends and family.
Cozy Guest Suites: With the kids off on their own adventures, why not create a delightful guest suite? This space can be a warm retreat for visitors, ensuring they feel at home while respecting your privacy. Think plush bedding, soothing neutral colors, and ample storage to provide that extra touch of comfort, making every guest feel truly special.
Flexible Use of Former Kids’ Rooms: Instead of letting those once cherished rooms sit unused, why not breathe new life into them? Former bedrooms can be wonderfully repurposed as home gyms, creative art studios, or inviting reading nooks. This way, you not only reclaim those spaces for your passions but also keep them ready for family visits when they come around.
Comfy Guest Suite
Repurpose your kids bedrooms into comfy guests suites. Not only will your guests love them, but your kids will feel even more special when they come home.
Smart Storage Solutions: Embracing Simplicity Without Compromise.
The empty nest phase often comes with the desire to declutter, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing storage:
Decluttering and Letting Go: Transitioning to an empty nest often sparks a desire to declutter, but it doesn’t mean you must sacrifice storage. This is the perfect time to evaluate what you truly need. Hold on to those cherished sentimental items, but feel empowered to let go of things that no longer bring you joy. This balance leads to a beautifully organized and serene living environment.
Custom Storage Designs: To maintain that tidy feel without sacrificing functionality, consider investing in custom storage solutions. Built-in cabinets, spacious walk-in closets, and trendy shelving can maximize your space, ensuring everything is easily accessible yet stylishly organized.
Crafting your home for this exciting next chapter offers a unique chance to reflect your personality and style. By prioritizing functionality, investing in quality, and expressing your tastes, you can create a luxurious yet practical haven where you’ll savor every moment.
If you’re eager to start designing your dream home, ideally suited to your evolving lifestyle, I would love to collaborate with you! Let’s schedule a consultation and begin crafting a space that feels right for you.
With love,
Jeri