Incorporating Subtle Universal Design Into Your Home
Step-free Entrances
Climbing stairs may become difficult as we grow older. A step-free entrance is not difficult to design when building a home from the ground up. It eliminates the opportunity of being forced to add a ramp to the outside of your house in the future. Step-free entrances are also perfect for when you find yourself carrying large packages or groceries. Whether you have difficulty with stairs or find yourself wheelchair bound, you’ll be thankful for a step-free entrance.Installing a tiny shelf or table just inside the front door is an excellent location to put your keys, sunglasses, and mail. It’s also particularly handy when you are carrying a baby and have limited use of your limbs.
It is an easy DIY task that takes little effort but will be beneficial for quite some time.Automatic Lighting Systems
Modern whole house control systems allow you to control your interior and exterior lights remotely from a wireless remote or master control. This type of system allows you to safely enter the house at night. Many systems also connect to any home security system you may have, turning the lights on in the event the alarm goes off.Widen Doorways
Standard interior doors are approximately 30-32 inches wide. The minimum door width needed for a wheelchair is 32 inches. Adding wider doorways to your home opens up your living space, brings light into other rooms, and allows for the potential of wheelchair accessibility in the event you require it. Wider doorways are also ideal for people that have walkers or scooters.
Install Door Handles In place of Knobs
Whether you have children or older individuals living in your home, door handles tend to be more user-friendly than door knobs because they’re much easier to grasp. This is a simple universal design fix that can be implemented in virtually any home.
Consider Slip-resistant Flooring
Hardwood and massive tile floors can often be slippery — not a great combination for young kids or the elderly. Consider slip-resistant flooring like cork or carpet. You may also tile with smaller tiles, which can prevent slipping.
Install a Stove with Knobs in Front
Consider a stove that has knobs in the front rather than in the back as they are more accessible. Just be conscious of the safety concerns of front stove knobs for those who have young children.
Install Adjustable Counters
Adding an adjustable counter to a kitchen island can make a world of difference to those who need to sit or find themselves in a wheelchair. Additionally it is a great place for kids to assist in your kitchen.
A front loading washing machine and dryer has several benefits. They normally use less water as well as energy, and could be used by children in addition to those in a wheelchair.
A roll-in shower or bath on the main floor of the house could be especially helpful for people of varying mobility. Adding in extra shower heads, a handheld shower, and fold down seats makes the bath a lot more universal.
Other things you might like to consider in the bath would be the use of hooks and shelves. Hooks near the shower for towels are ideal for children and those who are less mobile. Lower shelves outside and inside of the shower make toiletries readily available.