Retirement House Plan: Discover Your Dream Retirement House Plan
August 1, 2025
When it comes to retirement, your home should reflect ease, comfort, and freedom. Whether you're an empty nester looking to downsize or seeking a new lifestyle that supports aging in place, a well‑designed retirement house plan is the key to unlocking a future of simplicity and peace of mind.
Today’s retirees are embracing modern one‑story layouts, 2‑bedroom open floor plans, and features that prioritize accessibility and functionality. Let’s explore how to find the perfect house plan for your golden years.
Why Choose a Retirement House Plan (Empty Nester House Plans)
Empty nesters often find themselves with more house than they need. Downsizing to a smaller, more manageable home reduces maintenance, lowers utility costs, and supports a stress‑free lifestyle.
Empty nester house plans are tailored to meet evolving needs, blending open living spaces with practical, low‑maintenance design. These house plans eliminate excess square footage and focus on what truly matters—comfort, accessibility, and convenience.
Ideal Layout: Small One‑Story 2 Bedroom Floor Plans
The Benefits of One‑Story Living
A one-story layout eliminates the need for stairs, making every room easily accessible. This is ideal for those looking to age in place comfortably.
Most designs include:
- A spacious owner’s suite with a luxurious bath
- A guest room or office space
- Open kitchen‑to‑living areas
- Laundry and garage access on the main floor
A home with around 1,400–1,600 square feet provides just enough space for everyday living and occasional guests.
Open Floor Plan & Great Room Concept
Open floor plans are the heart of modern retirement home design. Kitchens flow into dining areas and great rooms, allowing for easier mobility and a greater sense of space.
Large windows and sliding doors create seamless connections to patios and covered porches, encouraging outdoor living and relaxation.
Accessibility & Aging‑in‑Place Features
Universal Design Essentials
Smart retirement plans integrate universal design elements to ensure safety and independence:
- Zero‑step entryways
- 36-inch wide doors and hallways
- Lever‑style door handles
- Reinforced bathroom walls for future grab bars
Safe & Stylish Bathroom Design
Bathrooms in retirement homes prioritize safety without sacrificing style:
- Walk‑in or roll‑in curbless showers
- Non‑slip flooring
- Dual vanities at comfortable heights
- Walk-in tubs with jets for spa-like comfort
Smart Lighting & Technology
Modern retirement homes often include smart features like:
- Voice‑activated lighting and thermostats
- Motion‑sensor pathway lights
- Stove shut‑off sensors
- Video doorbells and home monitoring systems
Architectural Styles & Outdoor Living
Cottage, Ranch & Farmhouse Styles
From cozy cottages to clean ranch‑style layouts, architectural choices reflect your personal taste while ensuring functionality.
Popular options include:
- Cottage plans with character‑filled details and compact layouts
- Farmhouse-style homes with front porches and airy interiors
- Ranch plans with horizontal layouts perfect for aging in place
Porches, Patios & Outdoor Access
A covered patio or screened porch provides a peaceful place to unwind. Outdoor access is essential for light gardening, social gatherings, or simply enjoying fresh air.
These spaces are often directly accessible from the great room or owner’s suite for ease of use.
Perfect Square Footage & Manageable Layout
Right‑Sizing Your Home
The sweet spot for retirement home size is typically between 1,000 to 1,800 square feet. These homes offer:
- Spacious yet manageable floor plans
- Plenty of storage with walk-in closets and attic space
- Efficient use of every square foot
Storage, Master Suite & Guest Layout
Master suites in retirement homes focus on comfort:
- Walk-in closets
- Spa-like baths with soaking tubs and showers
- Easy bedroom‑to‑bathroom transitions
A second bedroom works great as a guest room, office, or hobby space.
Design Tips for Seniors & Empty Nesters
Low‑Maintenance, Energy‑Efficient Choices
Retirement homes often include:
- Durable flooring (vinyl plank, tile)
- Energy Star appliances
- Minimal landscaping requirements
- LED lighting and tankless water heaters
Light‑Filled, Open, Friendly Spaces
Maximize natural light with large windows, skylights, and light interior color palettes. Open spaces also help accommodate mobility aids and make rooms feel more expansive.
Accessibility Refresher
Add handrails where needed, select walk‑in entries, and ensure that frequently used spaces are easily reachable. Include extra clearance around furniture and appliances for safe movement.
How to Choose Your Dream Retirement House Plan
When selecting the ideal retirement house plan, consider:
- Square footage that fits your lifestyle
- A 2-bedroom, one-story layout for accessibility and flexibility
- Open spaces and universal design elements for safety
- Proximity to healthcare, walkable communities, or amenities
- Optional upgrades for long-term independence
You can start with a premade design and work with an architect to customize finishes, room arrangements, and accessibility features.
Conclusion
A well‑designed retirement house plan can make your golden years more comfortable, independent, and joyful. By choosing a thoughtful one-story design with two bedrooms, an open floor plan, and built-in accessibility, you create a space that supports both lifestyle and longevity.
Your retirement home should be a reflection of ease and elegance—something that makes every day feel just right.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best size for a retirement house plan?
The ideal size for a retirement home typically ranges from 1,000 to 1,800 square feet. This size provides enough space for daily comfort, occasional guests, and easy maintenance.
Do I need a 2-bedroom house for retirement?
Yes, a 2-bedroom layout is ideal. It offers flexibility—one bedroom can serve as a guest room, office, or hobby space while the other is your master suite.
Why are one-story house plans better for retirees?
One-story homes remove the challenge of stairs and improve mobility. Everything is easily accessible, making them perfect for aging in place and everyday convenience.
What are must-have accessibility features in a retirement home?
Key features include zero-step entry, wide doorways, walk-in showers, grab bar reinforcements, lever-style handles, and smart lighting—all designed to ensure safety and independence.
Can I customize a retirement house plan for aging in place?
Absolutely. Many plans are customizable to include aging-in-place features like accessible bathrooms, smart home systems, and reinforced walls for future modifications.
What are the best architectural styles for retirement homes?
Cottage, ranch, and farmhouse styles are top picks. They offer single-level layouts, inviting aesthetics, and functional outdoor spaces like porches or patios.
How do I make my retirement home low maintenance?
Opt for durable, easy-clean materials like vinyl plank flooring, choose energy-efficient appliances, and simplify landscaping to reduce upkeep and expenses.
Is it cheaper to build or buy a retirement home?
Building can be more cost-effective if you choose a pre-drawn plan and manage materials wisely. Buying might be quicker but could lack customization and accessibility features.
What is aging in place and how does it apply to home design?
Aging in place means living in your own home safely and independently as you grow older. Home design should include accessibility features to support this long-term goal.
Where can I find the best retirement house plans online?
Websites like HousePlans.com, Dream Home Source, and Southern Living offer a range of accessible, one-story, 2-bedroom retirement home plans for every budget and style.