"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate and wine in one hand, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and screaming, 'WOO HOO, what a ride!'" — attributed to Hunter S. Thompson.

How did I get here? I'm not entirely sure, but I never slowed down along the way. I rolled with each punch, traveled widely, and embraced every adventure. I've faced health challenges, but I survived. I'm not going down without a fight, and I intend to have lots of fun in my so-called “golden years.”

A Bit About My Background:

At the age of seven, I discovered my passion for architecture, a field that had no representation in my family. I was captivated by the modern design of a relative’s house, which they built in the early '60s. That architect-designed home, filled with light and openness, inspired me to promise myself that architecture would be my future.

Aside from working on the family farm during my youth, I have dedicated my career solely to architecture. I tailored my high school curriculum to become an architect, pursued a pre-architecture degree in college, and was accepted into the College of Architecture at ASU. After moving to San Francisco, I took on various positions in the field, and here I am, 45 years later.

A naturally adventurous spirit, I spent my career up until 2004 working for others, designing high-rises, office parks, corporate interiors, and finally, biotech laboratories. However, I eventually recalled my childhood dream of designing homes. I realized that if I didn’t act on it now, I might never do so. Fortuitously, my connections with contractors from my university work gave me the support I needed. Thus, on January 1, 2005, I launched Cline Architects—with nothing but hope and a dream—focusing on residential remodeling, additions, and occasionally new home designs. Many of my past clients have been young families with growing children.

Today, I am rebranding the business as myself: JAMES BRENT CLINE ARCHITECTURE.

My new focus is going to be on people like myself - people who have been around for a while, who can see the future and want to be ready.

Like everyone, I am aging—and feeling it, particularly in my knees. I can't do all that I once could 20 years ago. In another 20 years, what will my circumstances be?

While my home currently suits my needs, I made provisions during my last bathroom remodel by installing blocking for future grab bars next to the toilet and in the shower. I also designed my kitchen to accommodate a wheelchair or walker. Living on the second floor of a San Francisco Victorian presents challenges I haven’t yet addressed, but it’s clear that some decisions need to be made, whether now or in the future.

I am not alone in this. Many people, while currently healthy and in good shape, are aware that changes may be on the horizon. Wise individuals plan ahead. Why not prepare your home for the future? You may have purchased your home years ago and cherish both the house and its location, so the last thing you want is to leave because your home can no longer meet your needs.

This is where the concept of “Aging in Place” comes in.

You CAN stay where you are. You can continue to live in the community you love by making modifications that will serve you well as your needs evolve.

Consider these options:

• Renovate your bathrooms and kitchen.

• Address the challenges of stairs.

• Your children are grown and out of the house—capitalize on the newfound space!

• Multi-generational living is another option - keep your family close.

• You might think about building an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) for your grown children or yourself. An ADU can be a garage conversion, some unused basement or ground level space, an extension of the home, or a new stand-alone building. It could even be a source of retirement income.

• Plan your home’s potential to ensure it can be your forever home.