Retiring in Puerto Vallarta? Here Are 10 Design Tips to Age in Place in Your Home
Whether you're dreaming about retirement in Puerto Vallarta or have already made the move, one thing becomes increasingly important as the years pass: comfort and functionality in your home.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico offers a vibrant, beautiful lifestyle—with stunning beaches, a welcoming community, and world-class dining. But creating a home that supports long-term independence is key to enjoying everything this paradise has to offer.
Aging in place means staying in your home safely, comfortably, and independently as you get older. With smart design choices, your Puerto Vallarta home can support your lifestyle now and well into the future.
10 Design Tips for Aging in Place in Your Puerto Vallarta Home
Here are 10 essential design tips for retirees living in Puerto Vallarta who want to make their homes both beautiful and practical.
1. Opt for Single-Level Living
One of the most important design decisions for aging in place is minimizing the need for stairs. When building a new home or renovating an existing space, opting for single-level living helps reduce fall risks and eliminates daily strain. Many homes in Puerto Vallarta already feature open, flowing layouts—take advantage of this by creating seamless transitions between rooms on one floor.
2. Install Non-Slip Flooring
Humidity and tile floors are a common pairing in homes across Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. But slick surfaces can be dangerous. Consider non-slip tile or textured vinyl flooring that offers safety without compromising on coastal style. Natural stone finishes with grip or matte-finish ceramic tiles are ideal for tropical climates.
3. Create Wider Doorways and Hallways
Mobility may change over time, so plan ahead by widening doorways and hallways to at least 36 inches. This allows easy access for walkers, wheelchairs, or simply more comfortable movement. It’s a small change that can make a significant difference in day-to-day ease.
4. Use Lever-Style Door Handles and Faucets
Ditch traditional knobs for lever-style hardware, which is easier to operate for people with arthritis or limited hand strength. This small change applies to doors, faucets, and even cabinetry, and adds a modern, streamlined look while improving functionality.
5. Add Strategic Lighting Throughout the Home
Good lighting is essential—not just for aesthetics, but for safety. Retirees living in Puerto Vallarta should prioritize layered lighting in every room, especially in areas like stairways, bathrooms, and kitchens. Incorporate a mix of natural light, ambient lighting, and task lighting for optimal visibility.
Bonus Tip: Automatic night lights in hallways and bathrooms can prevent trips during late-night visits.
6. Design a Safe and Stylish Bathroom
Bathrooms are one of the most important spaces to consider for aging in place. Choose walk-in showers with non-slip tiles and install grab bars that double as stylish towel holders. Consider comfort-height toilets and floating vanities that provide knee clearance if seated. Puerto Vallarta interior design can beautifully merge safety and spa-like luxury.
7. Prioritize Comfortable Outdoor Living
Living in Puerto Vallarta means embracing indoor-outdoor living. Create shaded outdoor spaces with comfortable, ergonomic furniture and slip-resistant surfaces. Add ceiling fans for ventilation, and consider raised planters for gardening without bending. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet morning with coffee, your terrace or courtyard should be just as accessible and comfortable as your interior.
8. Smart Storage for Easy Access
Custom storage solutions can reduce bending and reaching. Pull-out drawers, lazy Susans, and adjustable shelving help keep everything within reach—without sacrificing style. This is especially helpful in the kitchen and bedroom, where well-organized storage enhances both beauty and function.
9. Embrace Smart Home Technology
Technology is your friend when it comes to aging in place. Voice-controlled lighting, smart thermostats, security systems, and video doorbells make daily living safer and more convenient. Many of these systems can be managed via smartphone, which is especially useful for expats living in Puerto Vallarta who travel often or spend time in multiple homes.
10. Personalize Without Sacrificing Practicality
Your home should reflect your personality, lifestyle, and memories. Include meaningful decor, cozy textures, and artwork that brings joy—but balance it with practical design elements.
Rounded furniture edges, slipcovered sofas, and lower beds can help reduce accidents while enhancing comfort. Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant culture and natural beauty offer endless inspiration to personalize your space.
Creating Your Dream Retirement Home in Puerto Vallarta
Retirement in Puerto Vallarta is about more than palm trees and sunsets—it’s about creating a home that supports your best years with grace, ease, and joy. No matter if you're building your forever home or updating an existing one, designing with longevity in mind will help you enjoy every moment of living in Puerto Vallarta.
At Interior Design Alchemy, I specialize in helping clients design homes that are not only stunning but also sustainable for every stage of life. If you’re considering a remodel, building a new home, or simply want help creating a space that supports your retirement lifestyle, I’d love to help.
With extensive experience in Puerto Vallarta interior design, I’m here to ensure your home reflects your style and supports your independence for years to come.
Book a call to start designing the retirement home you’ve always dreamed of. And be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for monthly inspiration on living well and creating beautiful design in Mexico and beyond.
