Aging in Place & Universal Design

Ballard Kitchen & Bath Reno

Ballard Kitchen & Bath Reno

Schulte Design Build

Originally a neighborhood corner store, this was later converted to a residential home, remodeled and expanded many times over the years.

Ballard Kitchen & Bath Reno

Ballard Kitchen & Bath Reno

Schulte Design Build

Originally a neighborhood corner store, this was later converted to a residential home and was remodeled and expanded many times over the years.

Chermak Construction Inc.

This project began with friendship. We had just completed another local remodel and were recommended by word-of-mouth. The home was a typical 1950s-era rambler with small rooms, narrow hallways, and a sunken living room. Our homeowner wanted an open and contemporary space that would accommodate aging in place. By removing an existing slate floor entry, railings, a living area planter, a wall between the kitchen/living room, and the fireplace, we were able to open up the main living area. The sunken living room was raised to be level with the rest of the home. In addition to this new living/kitchen/dining space, we repurposed existing rooms to create a home office, craft room, remodeled bath, and luxurious walk-in-closet. The home was updated with hardwood flooring, lever-style handles on all doors, new appliances, easy-to-maintain countertops, and new windows. Our homeowner loves that her “new home” is so open and bright!

Meet the Builder

Howard Chermak, CGR, CAPS

Howard Chermak started Chermak Construction with one customer in June 1980. He soon learned that partnerships and collaboration were a lot more fun than working alone. He also discovered a strong commitment to customers and their families. His philosophy has been to provide a full-service construction company with exceptional employees that thrive in a personable atmosphere. The company directly reflects his commitment to quality and concern for the needs of customers. 36 years in the construction business in Greater Seattle, Bellevue, and Edmonds benefits clients at every phase of the home remodeling process.

I take pride in my company’s professional, yet personal approach to the construction business. This creates an environment for successful projects and happy clients.
— Howard Chermak

Irons Brothers Construction Inc.: Shoreline

This 1949 home was transformed to meet the changing needs of the homeowner, a retired war veteran.

Using universal design principles, the remodel includes a master bathroom, kitchen, living room with new fireplace, updated flooring, doors, trim, and a wider staircase and doorways. All floor transitions were removed. The walk-in shower includes a bench. Easier access and use was created in the updated kitchen.

By removing obstacles, greater ease and overall safety was achieved. Thanks to these changes, the owner now has greater independence in his home.

Sockeye Homes & Hagge Design Associates

The entire three-story, 3,600+ square foot custom-built dream home will be on tour, showcasing a rooftop deck with sweeping beach and water views, two kitchens, a separate bar and entertaining area, six bathrooms, an elevator, and a separate mother-in-law living area.

The home is packed with custom features, including a built-in hidden mirror TV, intricate coffered ceiling detail, and extensive tile, stone, and carpentry work throughout. Get design inspiration from the final decorative touches combining traditional and vintage fixtures, furnishings, and finishes.

Sockeye Homes

Named the Northwest Idea House of the Year, this extraordinary home features five bathrooms, an open floor plan, and an on-site design showroom.

Featuring a Northwest Contemporary style with a Japanese flair, this is also a design/Built Green demonstration home. The Japanese Onsen spa is tied to a waterfall entry feature. Other special features include a 24-foot Nana Wall indoor/outdoor design and grand open floor plan living area, which are aesthetically interesting while being functionally and environmentally advanced.