Custom Homes in Minnesota: The Convenience & Long-Term Value of Zero-Entry Designs How many times have you tripped on a small threshold or a single step in your home? Those seemingly minor elevation changes can become real safety hazards — especially for children, older adults, and anyone with mobility challenges. That’s why zero-entry design has become one of the most requested features in Minnesota custom homes. More and more homeowners are choosing this barrier-free approach to create houses that are safer, more convenient, and ready for the future. At Bigelow Homes, we’ve been building custom homes in Minnesota for over 40 years, and we’re seeing a clear trend: People want homes that work for every stage of life. What Is a Zero-Entry Design Home? A zero-entry home (also known as a step-free or barrier-free home) eliminates steps and thresholds wherever possible. Instead of abrupt transitions, it uses gentle slopes, low-profile thresholds, and open floor plans to create smooth movement throughout the home — from the front door to the shower. Zero-entry design can apply to the entire home, including: Level entrances from garages, patios, and porches Curbless showers for easy access Wider doorways with minimal or no thresholds Gentle floor slopes between rooms when needed Open layouts that improve flow and visibility The result? A home that’s both elegant and universally accessible. Why Zero-Entry Design Is Perfect for Aging in Place If you’re thinking about building a forever home, a zero-entry design offers unmatched long-term value. It’s much easier — and more cost-effective — to incorporate these features from the start than to retrofit them later. Check out the top five benefits of zero-entry design: 1. Enhanced Safety Removing thresholds and steps eliminates trip hazards, reducing the risk of falls inside and outside the home. 2. Improved Accessibility Zero-entry homes are ideal for residents with mobility limitations, disabilities, or those using mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs. 3. Everyday Convenience From carrying groceries to moving furniture, it’s easier to navigate a zero-entry home—no steps to climb, no edges to trip over. 4. Long-Term Adaptability As families grow or homeowners age, zero-entry layouts make it easy to stay comfortable and independent without major renovations. 5. Increased Home Value Buyers increasingly recognize the benefits of universal design. Homes built with accessibility and safety in mind tend to have stronger market appeal and resale value. Designing a Future-Ready Custom Home With Bigelow Homes Building a custom home in Minnesota is an opportunity to design a space that truly fits your lifestyle — today and tomorrow. At Bigelow Homes, we integrate zero-entry and other universal design elements seamlessly into our floor plans, combining functionality with beautiful craftsmanship. Our goal is to help homeowners build accessible, future-ready homes without compromising on aesthetics. We’ll work with you to: Customize your floor plan for full accessibility Select durable, low-maintenance materials Create open, bright spaces that feel welcoming and practical Ensure every detail supports long-term comfort and value Build Your Forever Home With Bigelow Homes Ready to design-build a custom home in Minnesota that’s beautiful, functional, and built to last? Talk to Bigelow Homes about incorporating zero-entry features into your next home build. With more than 40 years of experience, our team combines innovative design with time-tested craftsmanship to create homes that fit your life — now and for decades to come. 📞 Call us at 507-529-1161 or send a request online to get started.