New housing option launched for older homeowners in Beaumont and Artane

Expressions of interest have just opened for people over 60 to take part in a new housing scheme created by Michelle Moore with architects Dermot Bannon and Ciarán Ferrie.

The scheme helps homeowners who are over 60 and living alone, to upgrade their homes whilst also creating a rental unit upstairs in their house.

Having completed two pilot homes in Beaumont and Clondalkin, Ava Housing is about to carry out an expanded pilot of up to 15 houses in Beaumont and Artane and are looking for homeowners to take part.

The architect designed housing solution helps homeowners to reconfigure their family sized homes to create a bedroom and bathroom on the ground floor which will be suitable for their changing needs and the creation of a rental unit for one person upstairs.

The rentals are offered to essential workers employed in local hospitals, schools and other essential services.

Ava Housing helps the homeowner to select a suitable renter and manages the rental on behalf of the homeowner.

Homeowners qualify for Rent-a-Room tax relief, valued up to €14,000p.a.

The scheme allows older people to stay in their own homes and communities and reduces potential isolation whilst having the added benefit of providing a new income stream.

The pilot scheme arranges grants towards the costs of the home adaptation and energy upgrades.

Ava Housing is a not-for-profit organisation, and the pilot is being carried out with the funding and policy support of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

Founder Michelle Moore is excited about the prospect of expanding the scheme in 2022.

“The scheme and design are very much suited for the house types you might see around Beaumont, Artane and further afield,” she said.

“We would like to talk to homeowners who might be interested in taking part in the scheme.

“It’s a brilliant opportunity for anyone who wants to stay in their own home but may feel the house is a bit much for them to manage on their own or is starting to feel a bit run down.

“We think it could really suit people who are planning ahead for their retirement, who don’t want to move out of their house or neighbourhood.

“It also gives a level of independence as the house can be adapted to changing needs over time.”

Architect Dermot Bannon said it is a “really well considered and exciting housing option for people as they age.

“It’s a great way of making your home work for you, revitalising your house for your changing needs and making it more energy efficient for the future.

“The house type around Beaumont and Artane is a perfect fit for this scheme and with the Ava Housing design you can stay in the comfort of your own home but simultaneously be in an almost new house, one that fits your needs.

“I’d urge anyone who’s curious to get in touch.”