Q. We now live in Labrador, but plan to retire on the south shore of Nova Scotia, where we recently bought a retirement property. The house is forty years old, with one and a half stories. We’re planning major renovations, such as adding a mud room, laundry room, pantry, and stairs to a utility area in the basement of the addition. We also want to add a second wing on the other end for guests, complete with an ensuite.
Are there more economical ways to make these additions than how we propose to do it? There’s also an empty bungalow on the property in good condition. Would it make sense to cannibalize the bungalow for what we need for the main house?
Since this is our retirement home, we want to make sure everything is perfect. The problem is, we don’t know if we need an architect, an engineer, or a combination of both to make sure we make the most of the existing house. Please advise us on what expertise we need for our retirement project? SM
A. With the amount of work you propose doing, also consider building a new house. However, a good renovation can bring an old house up to modern standards. Given the age of the house, engage an architect to check the major elements – foundation, framing, roofing, cladding, insulation, windows and doors – to confirm the cost of upgrading.
Rather than building two extensions as you propose, combining the two into a single extension on one side would be cheaper, if the site layout permits. A single extension entails less tear up of the exterior walls, roof and grounds. While privacy is probably your intent in placing the guest suite on the opposite side, a sense of separation is still possible when combined with the other new areas. Configure the layout so the circulation routes of family and guests do not cross, except in the main areas. Soundproof the walls between the two zones.
Since this is a retirement home, consider keeping the addition on one level without an upstairs or basement. As people age, climbing stairs becomes more difficult and the likelihood of physical disability increases. Factor the aging process into the design equation. Simple and inexpensive adaptations allow retirees to maintain an independent lifestyle in their own home for longer periods of time. It is also cheaper to build in various conveniences now than renovate again later.
In the new layout, consider placing the laundry room, a full bathroom and a spare bedroom on the main level. Reduce travel distances between rooms where things must be carried, such as laundry to bedrooms, and entry to kitchen with groceries. Locate the washer and dryer near the kitchen so you can cook and clean at the same time. Avoid an alley kitchen since it is more difficult to maneuver around in than “L” or “U” shaped layouts, which keep things in closer reach.
On the exterior, the best architectural approach is making extensions seem as if they were built along with the original house – so it doesn’t resemble three houses in one! Either match the existing siding, if available, or redo the siding completely, which may be needed after four decades of wear and tear.
Cannabilizing an old house is possible, but carefully removing and reinstalling materials may prove more expensive than simply buying and installing new items. Be selective in what you salvage. Look for things having historic value that will enhance the value and aesthetics of your new house. However, cannabilizing the bungalow will reduce its resale value if you decide to sell it later.
I hope you enjoy the warmer climate of southern Nova Scotia during your retirement years. You deserve it. All the best!

SENIORS’ SAFETY CHECK LIST
Many accidents occur in bathrooms and stairways. The following changes improve safety and convenience at minimal cost:
Bathroom
1. Install grab bars around the tub and toilet.
2. Replace taps with lever handles.
3. Relocate towel bars within easy reach of tub and sink.
4. Provide lay-in or fold-down tub seat.
5. Install hand-held shower nozzle with temperature control.
6. Install foot-activated tub drain plug to reduce bending.
7. Install non-slip flooring.
Stairs
1. Install easy grip handrails on both sides.
2. Treads should be even and covered with non-slip material. Repair loose nosings.
3. Risers should be uniform in height. Open risers are hazardous.
4. Use contrasting colors on treads and risers for better visibility.
5. Increase light level. Provide switches at top and bottom of stairs.
6. Replace exterior stairs with a ramp at 1:12 to 1:20 gradient.