Posted on November 11th,
2009
by Berit Griffin
We’ll all get older, and along the way there may be some setbacks. With most people wishing to remain in their home as they age, or in case of a sudden disability, universal design is an important consideration when building, buying, selling or remodeling.
We’ve talked about it before, but let’s go into some tips on two of the most important and most-used rooms in the house: the kitchen and bathroom. Both are used regularly for basic activities of daily living, so it is of vital importance that their use be accessible to all.
Charles and Hudson had some tips by way of Susan Serra, CKD, of The Kitchen Designer. She reminds people of the following for universally-designed kitchens:
- Contrasting colors make it easy for visually-impaired people to see things
- Make sure that you can easily open and close cabinets and drawers with easy to use hardware
- Keep the things you use the most easily accessible
- Use rounded corners on counters to avoid injury
There are lots of other things you can do, but these easy tips can set you on your way to a universally-designed kitchen.
Kohler has a lot of bathroom expertise, and they have some practical tips for universal design in the bathroom.
- Make sure to install a toilet with a higher height
- Curbless showers are handy for those with limited mobility or who need help bathing
- Wall-mounted sinks look fresh and modern, plus they leave space underneath for a wheelchair user, unlike vanities and pedestal sinks
- Don’t forget to think about the things you can’t see — reinforced walls give the option of putting grab bars anywhere
With an eye towards universal design, you can live in and enjoy your house for many years to come.
Photo courtesy of Susan Serra Associates via Flickr
