Renovating in Boston's Back Bay

This is a close view of the building's facade. Unlike it's neighbors, this building on Commonwealth Avenue is made of yellow brick.  The property is a 1 BR/1.5 bath duplex on the first floor of the building.  The condo's living room is the original parlor room from when the building was a single family home.


We had an ideal tenant who kept the property in excellent condition and added value to the unit.  Here are some photos before the renovation.

The kitchen was modern in the 1980s with the stove, dishwasher, and vent all in one unit.  We needed to replace and update the kitchen.  After much deliberation, we also decided to work on the flooring and the bathroom as well.

 The downstairs has a bathroom, space for an office, the bedroom and two exits - one to Commonwealth Avenue and another to hallway and on-site laundry.


 But the property was done with care and expensive details - and I learned more about the property as the 3 weeks of renovation went on.  I love the spiral staircase with wood steps.

I wanted to renovate the condo so that it would be easier for "aging in place" with the exception of replacing this spiral staircase.  How much do you incorporate universal design concepts in your home?