Even homebuyers who choose not to finish the basement right away are opting to have the builder put in the rough plumbing so that a full bath can be built in the future. Finding that seniors have different preferences for the use of their interior space, K. Hovnanian has designed unique flex space areas into many of its active adult communities. For instance, many of the homes at K. Hovnanian's Four Seasons at Wayne have a finished storage room over the garage. By raising the roof of the garage, we crafted a usable space, which is accessed by a standard staircase. Although the area isn't heated, Hovnanian has seen residents use the space as a craft or shop area, an easily accessible storage area, even a private retreat from the rest of the home.
Lofts also are extremely popular with active adults.
Although seniors prefer single-level living, usually requesting their master bedroom suites on the first floor, they also like to have this secondary area as a guest bedroom for visiting family. Plus, because many residents are still working when they move into an active adult community, this space often doubles as an informal office area or a 'Net nook for online access. Both Zlotnick and Hovnanian agree that the functionality of flex space is determined as much by the homebuyer's preference as the builder's intentions. The whole notion of flex space extends to the entire house, even if we are building from a stock plan. The flexibility comes into play as buyers modify spaces to accommodate their varying needs.