Universal Design - New Home or Cottage Construction

Universal design refers to the concept of designing products, environments, and buildings to be usable by all people, regardless of age, ability, or other factors. In the context of a home, universal design principles aim to create living spaces that are accessible and functional for everyone, including individuals with disabilities, older adults, and young children. It is proven that when areas like these are accessible for people who are aging, it makes the spaces more pleasurable by everyone!

Here are some key features of universal design in a home:

Accessible Layout: The layout of the home is designed to minimize barriers and provide easy access to all areas, including entrances, hallways, and rooms. This may involve wider doorways and hallways, open floor plans, and level thresholds to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers.
Adaptable Features: The home includes features that can be easily adapted or modified to meet the changing needs of occupants over time. This might include adjustable countertops and cabinets, reinforced walls for the installation of grab bars, and lever-style door handles that are easier to operate than traditional knobs. Did you know that 10,000 people turn 65 years old every…single….day in the US?! It is time to think about these types of features.
Safety and Comfort: Universal design prioritizes safety and comfort for all occupants. This may involve features such as non-slip flooring, well-lit pathways and entrances, and thermostatic shower valves to prevent scalding.
Easy-to-Use Fixtures and Appliances: Fixtures and appliances throughout the home are designed to be user-friendly for people of all abilities. This might include easy-to-reach light switches and outlets, lever-style faucets, and front-loading washers and dryers with accessible controls.
Visual and Tactile Cues: Universal design incorporates visual and tactile cues to aid navigation and communication within the home. This might include contrasting colors for doorways and countertops, tactile indicators for stairs and transitions, and clear signage for rooms and amenities.
Inclusive Outdoor Spaces: Universal design extends to outdoor spaces, ensuring that they are accessible and usable for all occupants. This might include ramps and handrails for entryways, level pathways and seating areas, and accessible garden beds for gardening enthusiasts.

Overall, universal design principles aim to create homes that are welcoming, inclusive, and functional for people of all ages and abilities, promoting independence, safety, and quality of life for everyone who lives there.

Loyl HomesMay 8, 2024