Accessibility

Design for All: Creating a Home That Works for Everyone

Universal Design Makes Life Better Whether You Are 3 or 103

Kerrie Kelly ASID, MBA, CAPS is a certified interior designer, certified aging-in-place specialist, author, and thought leader. She collaborates with publishers, manufacturers, homeowners and builders to inspire beauty and simplicity because...Everyone Deserves Great Design. TM Kelly authored “Home Décor, a Sunset Design Guide” published by Oxmoor House. The book was released in September 2009 and is still a defining guide to all styles of home décor. Visit Kerrie at http://www.kerriekelly.com and http://www.kerrielkelly.blogspot.com

Kerrie Kelly ASID, MBA, CAPS is a certified interior designer, certified... More »

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The term "universal design" refers to the concept that ideally all design — products, technologies and the built environment — should serve the broadest range of people, regardless of levels of ability or mobility, age, gender or physical stature without the need for adaptation or specialized design. It is not a design style but rather an orientation to design, focusing on the end user.

Universal design is a commitment to accommodate all who are involved in residing or visiting a space. More and more people want to live a happy, healthy life in the home that means something to them and their families. Universal design has the power to make life better for every person, no matter his stage of life.

It isn't more complicated or more expensive to create an effective, functional space for all. Here's a look at some spaces reflect universal design that accommodates a variety of users.

by Kristen Rivoli Interior Design

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Universal design creates a space where anyone can live or visit, whether you are 3 or 103. This open floor plan welcomes several universal design elements: wide traffic patterns, lightweight movable seating and layered lighting, which provides adequate illumination for everyone.

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by Kerrie L. Kelly

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This remodel appeals to all ages by incorporating layered light and accessibility. Rollouts were added to cabinetry at all levels. The tall run of cabinets even has a roll-out for the cat (pet food is concealed in the cabinet, then rolled out for eating ease)! There is also a lower table area for kids and family and an upper bar for adults. Layered lighting features general can lights, accent island pendants on dimmers and task lighting under cabinets. The island size allows for easy traffic flow, including room for wheelchairs.

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by Elad Gonen & Zeev Beech

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More and more two-story homes are being specified with elevators. For some, the expense of the unit may be worth the convenience and added accessibility.

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by Kerrie L. Kelly

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This functional and beautiful kitchen was designed with an active adult lifestyle in mind. Knobs on the cabinets and lever handles on the pantry make doors easier to open.

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by Kanner Architects

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This bathroom beautifully incorporates plenty of room to accommodate our 5-foot wheelchair-turning radius, an attractive floor mounted grab bar to assist to the tub, open-bottom vanity cabinets for ease of rolling to the sink and curbless access to the shower and toilet areas.

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by Kerrie L. Kelly

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This universally designed project's goal was to create a kitchen to accommodate a growing family's lifestyle. Knobs are on the front of appliances instead of the side or back, and the refrigerator has lever handles for easier opening. The bottom freezer provides friendly access too. The faucet has a pull-out sprayer for easy cleaning at the main and veggie sinks.

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by O'Sullivan Architects, Inc

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Here a classic, garden-style villa with open floorplan offers the perfect setting for all ages. Gracious living is achieved through sprawling living room with a gas fireplace, private deck, vaulted ceilings and easy access to the outdoors.

Access to nature via wide doorways or views is a key element of universal design.

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by Kerrie L. Kelly

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This house was a part of the DIY Network’s House Crasher’s TV show. The focus for this universally designed kitchen was to create a distinctive looking kitchen that was approachable and durable to all members of the family — a real gathering place. Pulls were added to cabinetry and solid countertops were provided for easy cleaning. Solid cork flooring allows for easy wheeling and general "give."

Next: See more universal design ideas

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Comments

Kerrie L. Kelly says:

I completely agree! While its not glamorous, the Kohler Highline Toilet has always been a favorite of all family members! And yes, to have a bed and bath on the first level is a must.

16 months ago · Like

tractormama says:

Thank you for featuring universal design -- I'm the lady trying to do an aqua and copper master bath in my new Universal design house. Could you describe more the "roll outs" in Photo 2 here for the kitty (and dog too?) in the kitchen. I'm fascinated with that idea and getting ready to do the kitchen details.

15 months ago · Like

Peter Medvin says:

Another home design idea that incorporates the ease of use Universal Design concept is Zoom-Room, the electronic, remote controlled, retractable Murphy Bed. Whether you 8 or 80, this unique solution for convertible spaces goes up and down with the push of a button (note -there is a child safety lock to keep really young kids from using the bed as a toy!). It's a great idea where space is at a premium, and where you need a guest bed that's both comfortable and undetectable. Check it out at www.Zoom-Room.com.