Inspiring lifetime homes

These self-builders put futureproofing at the top of their priority list, incorporating design features that will allow them to live in their dream homes for years to come. See how it’s done with these stunning examples from around the UK

Upside-down living

Designed and built by Facit Homes, this modern home in south London was designed as a forever home that could accommodate the owners as they transition to retirement. Spread across an area of 220m2, the floorplan has been arranged in an upside-down layout.

The upper level features the guest bedroom, home office and large studio, as one of the owners is a printmaker. Most of the living spaces, including a roomy kitchen diner, lounge and master bedroom with an en suite, are on the ground floor. The idea behind the layout is that as the owners get older, they can retreat from the working area upstairs and spend their time on the ground floor. The bedroom even features its own private access door to the garden.

Designed to downsize

Morris and Jane Manson chose Fleming Homes to deliver the timber frame kit for their contemporary new build in Selkirk. The floorplan has been designed with flexibility in mind and features a bedroom and shower room on the ground floor. The lower level of the house also comprises a study that could easily be converted into a snug.