As you age, having your family around to help with certain things is lovely.
However, most people would prefer not to rely on them for everything – and would rather keep their independence.
One elderly woman named Merle moved back to Victoria, Australia to be close to her family.
Yet, she also wanted to live in the comfort of her own private home.
Her daughter, Ferne, a tiny house designer, rose to the challenge of creating a home for her aging mom.
She’s built many beautiful homes, but this one was special.
It was for Mom.
The stunning 23.5 x 8 ft home was designed to meet her aging mother’s needs.
Wide entrances with ramps make the house super accessible and mobility-friendly for Merle.
Even the kitchen countertops were built with Merle’s height in mind.
The design also considered any changes that could arise with Merle’s age.
The walls are reinforced with handrails in case Merle needs to hold on to something to maintain her balance.
Ferne thought of everything when it came to the home’s brilliant design.
That beautiful patio could be dismantled should they choose to move or sell.
But the beautiful farm provides such a lovely view that it’s hard to imagine they’d think of leaving.
Merle won’t ever get tired of the spectacular views. It’s like the cherry on top.
Ferne also ensured that the roof and walls provided good insulation so winters wouldn’t be troublesome for her mother.
Screens were also installed to keep insects from entering.
This is Australia, after all.
The main screen located at the entrance ramp is motorized.
Merle only needs to push a button to raise or lower it.
Ferne let Merle choose the colors and designs for the interior, so her mom could really feel that it was all hers.
Her elderly mom decided to go for the timber look.
It gives the home a more open space feel.
Underfloor heating was also installed as Ferne knew how important a feature it was for elderly people.
Merle’s floor is flat and non-slip, so she can walk and move about safely anywhere she needs to go.
A very cool feature is Merle’s bed.
A button push will lift her bed to the ceiling during the daytime.
The motor runs on a 12-volt battery with channels built into the wall.
Ferne built the cabinets into the walls, while drawers are located in practical, easy-to-reach spaces for Merle.
Merle finds her home easy to navigate, even with a walker. Her bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom are all within reach, and she gets to where she wants to go with no stress. Important for her age.
Merle says the house is the best present her daughter has ever given her.
Ferne really did make her mom’s house her best work to date.
The design is stunning. It’s so practical yet so eye-catching that her elderly mom can still move around in style.
Merle and Ferne agree that everything is perfect – and we couldn’t agree more.
Click the video below for a full tour of Merle’s brilliantly-designed granny pad!
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