More Than a Renovation: Bringing Our Client Home Through Thoughtful Aging in Place Design

At Fairbank Construction, we believe the size of a project should never determine the level of craftsmanship or care it receives.

For nearly 50 years, we've built custom homes throughout Bainbridge Island and the greater Puget Sound. Today, through Fairbank Special Services (FSS), we bring that same commitment and quality to Aging-in-Place remodeling, accessible home renovations, and thoughtfully planned improvements that help homeowners continue living safely and comfortably in the homes they love.

We believe that whether we're building a custom waterfront residence or remodeling a single room, every client deserves the same attention to detail, thoughtful planning, and exceptional execution.

This project is one of those stories.

A Home Reclaimed

This space has lived many lives. It began as a garage, later became a playroom, and today serves a much greater purpose—a beautifully designed, wheelchair-accessible living suite that allows our client to once again live comfortably in the home they love.

For nearly two years, the second-story bedrooms were no longer accessible, making it impossible for them to remain in their home. This Accessibility-focused renovation changed that.

Sometimes the most meaningful projects aren't about building something new.

They're about restoring independence, dignity, and the comfort of coming home.

Designed for Life

Working alongside Harmony House Interior Design Collective, we set out to prove that accessible design can be every bit as warm, layered, and inviting as any custom home. Their thoughtful design vision, paired with Fairbank's craftsmanship, transformed this suite into a space that supports independence while reflecting our clients' personality and love of nature.

The floor was raised 12 inches to create a flush transition with the existing home, allowing seamless wheelchair movement throughout the space.

A custom modular wall gently separates the bedroom and sitting area while housing a double-sided fireplace that adds warmth, comfort, and visual connection between the spaces.

One of the most unique features is the rotating television, laid out by our General Manager Field Operations, Phil O., and handcrafted by Fairbank carpenter Frank M. Designed specifically for our client's needs, it rotates to provide comfortable viewing from the bedroom, living area, and even the bathroom—a custom solution that reflects the creativity and craftsmanship our team brings to every project.

Throughout the suite, natural materials create an atmosphere that feels anything but clinical. Warm wood tones, mossy greens, layered textures, soft plaids, and landscape-inspired details reflect our clients' love of nature while creating a peaceful place to live.

Even the flooring was carefully considered. FLOR® carpet tiles were selected because their rigid rubber backing allows wheelchairs to move easily across the surface without bunching or creating resistance. The green bench serves multiple purposes—additional seating for family, a welcoming design feature, and a comfortable place for physical therapy exercises.

In the bathroom, accessibility blends seamlessly with thoughtful design. The vanity accommodates wheelchair access, the mirror pivots for comfortable viewing at different heights, and the roll-in shower features a fold-down wood seat, dual shower wands, and grab bars finished in antique bronze so they complement the room instead of drawing attention to themselves.

It's proof that accessible design doesn't have to feel institutional.

It can feel warm, timeless, and unmistakably like home.

Our Commitment to Aging in Place and Accessibility

As more families choose to remain in their homes as their needs evolve, Fairbank Construction has expanded its commitment to Aging in Place design and remodeling. Our team includes a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) Project Engineer, who works closely with homeowners to evaluate accessibility needs and develop solutions that are both practical and beautiful.

Accessibility should never feel like an afterthought.

It should feel intentional.

Whether we're creating a wheelchair-accessible suite, remodeling a bathroom, improving circulation throughout a home, or planning for future mobility, our goal is always the same: preserve the character of the home while making everyday life easier.

Small Projects. Same Fairbank Craftsmanship.

Projects like this remind us why Fairbank Special Services exists.

Our FSS team brings the same skilled craftsmen, attention to detail, and commitment to quality that have defined our custom homes since 1978. The same people who build award-winning custom homes also complete our renovations, home accessibility improvements, and Aging in Place projects.

Whether we're transforming an entire home or remodeling a single room, our clients receive the same level of craftsmanship, communication, and care.

Because every project matters.

And every homeowner deserves to feel at home.

More Than a Room

This renovation is about much more than accessible features.

It's about restoring independence.

It's about preserving a lifetime of memories.

Most of all, it's about giving someone the opportunity to come home again.

For us, there are few projects more meaningful than that.

Considering an Aging-in-Place Remodel?

If you or a loved one are thinking about modifying your home for greater comfort, safety, or accessibility, we'd be honored to help. From accessible bathrooms and wheelchair-friendly living spaces to whole-home Aging in Place renovations, Fairbank Special Services combines thoughtful planning with the craftsmanship that has defined Fairbank Construction for nearly five decades.

Because the best home is the one you never have to leave.

This project was a collaborative effort between Fairbank Construction and Harmony House Interior Design Collective, whose thoughtful interior design helped transform an accessible living suite into a warm, welcoming home.