Source: REMODELING Magazine
Publication date: February 1, 2007
By Nina Patel
Putting universal design principles to work can make houses more livable and comfortable, and more welcoming to all guests, regardless of age or ability, according to Kansas State University universal design experts, who offer the following ideas for applying universal design at home:
BATHROOMLocate a shower or tub on the home's ground floor.Include a vanity sink that moves up and down at the touch of a button, or a bowl that hangs over the edge of the vanity to accommodate a wheelchair.Install a faucet with a retractable nozzle for easier reach.Have a mirror that tilts forward, for comfortable use by a wheelchair user.Install a taller toilet and foldable grab bars to help users retain their balance.Provide a side-entry walk-in tub with a height-adjustable showerhead.Provide a roll-in shower.Consider including a first-floor bathroom with these universal design features.KITCHENArrange cupboards for easy access to heavy items. For example, place cups and plates on a lower shelf. Or install cabinets that move up and down for easy reach.Use turntables or a Lazy Susan to organize frequently used items in a refrigerator or cupboard.Provide lower countertops with higher toe-kick space to better accommodate wheelchair users.Use large handles on cabinets to make them easier to open and close for those with arthritic hands. Click here to read full article from Residential Architecture