The Forever Home: How Universal Design Adds $15k in Value

Home renovation is often about the “now.” We want the trendy backsplash now, the open island now, and the spa-like shower now. But in 2026, the most successful renovators are playing the long game. They are practicing Stealth Remodeling.

Stealth remodeling (or Universal Design) is the art of creating a space that is accessible to people of all ages and abilities without looking “accessible.” According to latest industry data, 66% of homeowners now address future mobility needs during their bathroom remodels. Why? Because a home that adapts to you is a home that holds its value.

At Kukun, we’ve observed that homes featuring “invisible” universal design elements don’t just sell faster: they command a premium. Here is how to build a “Forever Home” that boosts your PICO™ Property Condition Score while adding significant equity today.

The Curbless Shower: Luxury Meets Longevity

If there is one feature that defines Universal Design in 2026, it is the curbless (zero-entry) shower. Gone are the days when a walk-in shower required a 6-inch lip to keep water in.

The Design Appeal: It creates a seamless, “wet room” look that makes even a small bathroom feel twice as large by extending the floor tile all the way to the wall.
Curbless Shower Cost: In 2026, expect to pay $4,500 – $9,000 for a high-end curbless installation, which includes the specialized recessed pan and linear drain system.
The ROI: Because this is a high-demand luxury trend, it typically adds $8,000 – $12,000 in perceived value to a master suite. It’s a rare case where a “safety feature” is actually a “style feature.”

The ADA-Compliant Kitchen: Not Just for Wheelchairs

When we talk about an ADA-compliant kitchen layout, many homeowners envision lowered counters and wide gaps. In 2026, the focus has shifted to “Flex-Design.”

Varied Counter Heights: Incorporating a section of the island that is 30 inches high (standard table height) rather than 36 inches. This is perfect for kids doing homework, seniors who prefer to sit while prepping food, or simply creating visual interest in the kitchen.
Drawer-Based Living: Replacing lower cabinets with deep drawers. It’s easier on the back for everyone and significantly improves your kitchen’s organization.
Smart Faucets: Touchless or voice-activated faucets are a cornerstone of universal design, reducing the need for “twisting” motions that can be difficult for those with arthritis (or those with messy hands from cooking!).

The PICO™ Factor: Why Accessibility is an Asset

In 2026, “Life-Stage Adaptability” will be taken into account. A home that is “Universal Ready” is considered a lower-risk asset because it appeals to the widest possible pool of buyers: from young families with strollers to retirees.

By documenting these upgrades in your Kukun Maintenance and Management tool, you are proving that your home is modernized for the next 30 years of use. This “Future-Proofing” is exactly what 2026 buyers are willing to pay a premium for.

FAQs: Universal Design & Resale Value

Q: Does universal design make a house look like a hospital? A: Not anymore. In 2026, brands like Kohler and Moen have released “Designer Series” grab bars that look like luxury towel racks and “comfort height” toilets that look sleek and modern. The goal is stealth: no one should know it’s an accessible home unless they need it to be.

Q: What is the most important universal design feature for ROI? A: Hands down, the First-Floor Primary Suite. If your home doesn’t have a bedroom and a full bath on the main level, your resale value is capped in 2026. If you are adding an ADU, making it universally accessible is a “must.”

Q: How do I find a contractor who understands Universal Design? A: Look for the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation. These pros are trained by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) to integrate safety features into beautiful, high-end designs.

Q: Is it more expensive to build a universal kitchen? A: The layout costs are roughly the same. The primary “extra” cost comes from specialized hardware (like pull-down shelving) and smart appliances. However, these are the same items that boost your renovation ROI.

The Verdict: Build Your Future, Enjoy Your Present

Universal design is the ultimate win-win. You get a sleek, modern, high-functioning home today, and you eliminate the need for a stressful, expensive “emergency” remodel 20 years from now.

In 2026, the “Forever Home” isn’t the one you never leave, it’s the one that grows with you.

The Forever Home: How Universal Design Adds $15k to Your Home’s Value Before You Even Turn 60 was last modified: February 11th, 2026 by Billy Guteng

Written by Billy Guteng. February 11, 2026

Billy is a content writer for Kukun. He was born in France, and has lived in multiple cities around the world ever since. He loves art, design and architecture as well as construction and real estate.