Building a Barrier-Free Home that is Safe, Accessible, and Functional for Noah On this Holmes Family Rescue reno we got to help a great couple, Iwan and Ivona, and their...
Holmes Family Rescue Reno: We Have Lift Off for Noah
By Mike Holmes
Mike’s Advice / Design & Renovation Inspiration
Tuesday, February 18th, 2025 @ 8:00am
Building a Barrier-Free Home that is Safe, Accessible, and Functional for Noah
On this Holmes Family Rescue reno we got to help a great couple, Iwan and Ivona, and their son Noah to create a safe, accessible and functional home that was still beautifully designed by our designer Cynthia Soda. Iwan and Ivona wanted to renovate their kitchen and main floor to create a more livable space for their family. Ivona was eight months pregnant at the time, and the contractor they hired did a terrible job—wrecked the place and kept asking for more money. When you do a contract, payments should be tied to milestones: demo, drywall, etc. Around the same time, they received devastating news: their baby, Noah, had cancer. The good news is that Noah, now five, survived and is full of energy.
Our first priority was making the home structurally sound.
We installed three new structural beams to support the load, ensuring the house was safe before moving on to accessibility features.
Everything we did in the house was for Noah’s independence and a better life for Ivona and Iwan, but what started this journey was they had hired a contractor to renovate their kitchen.
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The renovation started with the kitchen, where we prioritized Noah’s independence.
The renovation started with the kitchen, where we prioritized Noah’s independence:
Here are some of the features we included:
- High-tech features for Noah to participate in meal prep
- Open dining area for easy access
- Lowered kitchen section so Noah can eat, help cook, or do homework
- Durable porcelain countertops and tiled kitchen island to prevent scuffs from Noah’s wheelchair
- Pot filler for easy filling of large pots
- Invisible Induction Cooktop – a copper coil system with six hidden burners controlled via a push-button drawer or smart phone, maximizing counter space and safety and easy to clean.
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Improving Indoor Air Quality
We found extensive mould in the attic due to poor venting and insulation. To fix this, we:
- Installed a ridge vent with perforated soffits for airflow
- Added five new vents for kitchen, bathroom, and plumbing ventilation This will prevent future mold, improve efficiency, and ensure clean indoor air.
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Seamless Transition Flooring for Wheelchair Accessibility
For Noah’s wheelchair, we removed transitions between floors and installed wide plank engineered hardwood—durable, water-resistant, and perfect for when Noah gets out of the shower.
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Expanding Doorways for Easy Access
To enhance accessibility, we replaced the back door with a custom 40-inch hinged door. It allows Noah to navigate easily onto the deck while adding backyard appeal.
40” hinged door to the deck provides easy navigation and access to the deck for Noah.
Noah’s Elevator: Safety and Independence
Our designer, Cynthia, cleverly disguised Noah’s elevator as a closet. The elevator provides Noah with:
- Independence to access the garage, main floor, and basement
- A standby generator for uninterrupted use in case of power outages
Our designer, Cynthia, did a great job of camouflaging the elevator into what looks like a closet and the cloud wallpaper inside is perfect for Noah’s imagination.
Noah’s Space-Themed, Accessible Bedroom Makeover
We expanded Noah’s bedroom for his wheelchair and added:
- Voice-controlled blinds, lights, and smart-sensing backup lights
- Low-level storage for easy toy access
- A custom closet for additional storage, especially for medical supplies
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A SPECIAL SURPRISE FOR NOAH
Michael handcrafted a stunning black walnut toy chest using coopering techniques. It features 32 cuts, 16 pieces, and hydraulic hinges for a soft close
Noah’s love for outer space was the inspiration for his bedroom, under the window is a handcrafted toy chest made by Michael.
Creating an Accessible Bathroom for Noah
Tiling throughout the main part of the bathroom into the shower makes the space feel bigger, and Noah’s love of building blocks is reflected in the shower wall tiles.
Designed for privacy and accessibility, it features:
- Accessible vanity with a tilted mirror
- A special faucet that changes colour to indicate water temperature
- A curbless shower, accessible shower chair, sink and toilet with grab bars for safe transfers
- Tile extending from the main area into the shower for a seamless look
Tiling throughout the main part of the bathroom into the shower makes the space feel bigger, and Noah’s love of building blocks is reflected in the shower wall tiles.
Colour changing faucet installed on Holmes Family Rescue
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Primary Bedroom, Bathroom & Walk-In Closet Renovation
Iwan and Ivona’s bedroom, located above the garage, was constantly cold due to poor insulation. It’s now a warm and comfy retreat for Ivona and Iwan.
Michael and Mike show Ivanka (left) and Ivan (2nd from left) their new master bedroom
We fixed that and upgraded their bathroom and closet too to give them their own retreat where they can enjoy some alone time!
Walk-in
A new functional 3 piece bathroom is just what Ivona and Iwan needed.
Enhancing Curb Appeal & Safety
- Replaced the dangerous walkway and added a new front porch with railings
- Installed a beautiful new front door with a security camera
- New siding, roof repairs, soffits, fascia, gutters, and downspouts
- A brand-new, dent-free garage door with a camera for extra security
Updated the home to provide curb appeal and safety
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THE BEST PART?
Noah gave us 10 thumbs up! This renovation took four months, but the transformation was worth every moment to ensure Noah and his family had an accessible, safe, and beautiful home.
I love doing all these projects with Michael and Sherry and I love helping families. This family desperately needed an accessible home. We fixed all the structure, removed the mould, and finished the home with some spectacular features. It feels so good to help a family that desperately needs our help.
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