Comparing Second-Story vs. Bump-Out Additions in Montgomery County Pennsylvania (2025)
For many homeowners in Bucks County, PA, the house you live in today may not be the house you’ll need tomorrow. As life changes, your home should be able to change with you—whether that means accommodating grandchildren visiting, making space for aging parents, or ensuring you can stay comfortably in your home as you grow older.
That’s where the concept of a Forever Home comes in.
A Forever Home is more than just where you live right now. It’s a space thoughtfully designed or remodeled to serve your needs for decades to come. Unlike a starter home or a short-term residence, a forever home is built for comfort, safety, and accessibility—without sacrificing beauty and style.
What Is Universal Design in Bucks County, PA?
Universal Design is an approach to home design that creates spaces anyone can use, regardless of ability, age, or physical limitations. While it’s often associated with accessibility and aging in place, Universal Design goes beyond that—it’s about making a home more comfortable, intuitive, and safer for everyone.
For example:
Seniors in Doylestown value wide hallways that make movement effortless and safe.
Parents with young children benefit from easy-to-use lever handles.
Empty nesters in Silverdale appreciate low-maintenance features like touchless faucets.
Contact Gehman Design Remodeling
The 7 Principles of Universal Design for Your Forever Home
- Equitable Use
Design that is useful to people with diverse abilities.
- Example: A zero-step entry makes it easy for guests with strollers, arms full of groceries, or those using walkers or wheelchairs.
- Flexibility in Use
Design that adapts to a wide range of needs and preferences.
- Example: Adjustable-height showerheads or built-in seating in a large tiled shower.
- Simple and Intuitive Use
Design that’s easy to understand for anyone.
- Example: Lever handles on doors and faucets that don’t require twisting or strength to operate.
- Perceptible Information
Design that communicates information in multiple ways.
- Example: Appliances with both sound alerts and digital displays.
- Tolerance for Error
Design that reduces the risk of accidents.
- Example: Induction cooktops that stay cool to the touch after cooking.
- Low Physical Effort
Design that minimizes strain.
- Example: Motorized window treatments or touchless faucets.
- Size and Space for Approach and Use
Design that accommodates movement for all body sizes and mobility devices.
Example: Wider doors and hallways, open layouts, and bathrooms with plenty of clearance for walkers or wheelchairs.
Why Forever Homes Are Growing in Popularity in Bucks County
Homeowners in towns like Dublin, Solebury, and Buckingham are increasingly choosing to remodel instead of move. Why?
Aging in Place: Many residents want to stay close to family, friends, and their community as they age.
High Property Values: With rising real estate prices in Bucks County, remodeling often makes more sense financially than buying new.
Lifestyle Upgrades: Families in Jamison and Richboro are investing in spa-like bathrooms, chef-quality kitchens, and outdoor living spaces that can be enjoyed now—and remain practical in the future.
Forever Home Remodeling Ideas
Here are some common remodeling projects we see in Bucks County that align with universal design principles:
- Kitchen Remodels in Doylestown: Open layouts, large islands, side-opening ovens, and easy-to-reach storage.
- Bathroom Remodels in Buckingham: Large curbless showers, non-slip tile, built-in seating, and heated floors.
- Additions in Solebury: First-floor master suites or in-law suites for multi-generational living.
- Exterior Upgrades in New Britain: Step-free entrances, low-maintenance siding, and wider walkways.
Work With an Award-Winning Bucks County Remodeling Team
At Gehman Design Remodeling, we’ve been serving homeowners across Bucks County and southeastern Pennsylvania since 1990. With an in-house team of designers, carpenters, and craftsmen—plus a Kitchen and Bath showroom in Harleysville—we specialize in creating forever homes that combine luxury with long-term livability.
We’ve won industry awards every year since 1995, and our NARI-certified professionals are passionate about delivering remodeling experiences that truly “WOW” our clients.
📞 Ready to Decide Between Building Up or Out?
A smart, well-planned home addition adds more than square footage—it adds comfort, style, and value to your life.
Contact Gehman Design Remodeling today to schedule a consultation and get personalized pricing based on your goals, your neighborhood, and your home.
