Universal design, which requires accessible
surroundings for people of all ages, sizes, and abilities, is making its way
to America's collective remodeling wish list.
Professional remodelers are increasingly aware of universal design standards
since the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, and as
the boomer generation ages, remodelers anticipate a surge in consumer demand.
"Universal design isn't the highest on our list of requests by homeowners,"
said Joan Stephens, CR, of Stronghold Construction in Boise, Idaho, and
President-Elect of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI),
"but it's on the rise." |
|
|
Many homeowners don't realize that
remodelers can make these accessible home modifications. "The trend began in new
home building, particularly with upscale retirement housing, and it's picking up
pace in the remodeling industry," Stephens said. The complexity of this market
is due partially to an unwillingness to submit to the label of elderly or
disabled. However, universal design paints a much broader stroke than design
specifically for the disabled or elderly. It is a remodeling solution beneficial
to everyone, from clumsy toddlers to beefy football players.
With an increased desire to make their homes more user-friendly, homeowners,
especially those of the boomer-senior generation, may seek the addition of a few
universal design elements, or opt for a complete overhaul. NARI offers these
tips for homeowners planning a remodel with universal design elements in mind:
Kitchen:
Access to storage, closet and counter space should be easy and unencumbered. A
lazy susan or corner swing out shelf, a plan drawer or roll-outs are all simple
solutions for hard-to-reach cabinet items. A light surface color for cabinets,
as well as floors and countertops, will be easy on aging eyes. Consider lower
cabinets for less reaching, but a raised dishwasher to minimize bending. Oven
controls may be placed in front to prevent reaching over hot surfaces.
Bathroom:
There are many simple options in making a shower easier to use, such as a wide
shower entry with no steps, an adjustable height showerhead, a mobile, hand-held
showerhead unit, and a shower seat. Grab bars, which come in various colors and
styles, are also a useful addition to the shower or bathroom.
Front-mounted faucets can prevent stretching to check water temperature. The ADA
recommends offset controls for bathtubs, showers and other fixtures, which
entails moving the controls closer to the outside of the fixture for increased
accessibility. Removing vanity cabinets from beneath the sink and adding
supports are useful ways to increase knee space.
An adjustable, wall mounted mirror angles forward for wheelchair users, and a
slightly raised toilet seat may lessen the strain of transferring from a
wheelchair or sitting down.
Exterior:
Steps at door and garage entrances can prove difficult or dangerous. Consider
entrances level with the ground to make mobility smooth and worry-free. Ramps
are another option but require careful thought and planning. Before installing
ramps, consider security, other household members, maintenance, appearance, and
property market value.
Controls:
Household controls, including thermostats, outlets, switches and window
hardware, are crucial to an effective universal design layout. These items
should be placed within a reasonable range of reach, and require a minimal
amount of dexterity. Rocker switches or switches that can be pushed on and off
may prove a helpful alternative to conventional toggle switches.
Appliances with small switches can pose a problem remedied by plugging the unit
into an outlet controlled by a wall switch. Awning windows, or top-hinged
windows, are most user-friendly due to the placement of locks and cranks on the
sill, rather than on hard to reach window sides or crossbars.
Lower placement of windows will help children or wheelchair users see outside
with less strain.
As with any remodeling project, however, individualized needs may supersede any
recommended adjustments. While there are many suggestions for creating a
universally sound environment, it is crucial to address personalized
requirements when undertaking such a project. Even a remodeler experienced with
universal design will need to tailor the project specifications to suit the
needs of the client.
Homeowners should bear in mind these seven basic principles when planning a
remodel that incorporates universal design:
1. Equitable Use: The design accommodates any type of user.
2. Flexibility in Use: The design may be used by persons of a wide range of
abilities.
3. Simple and Intuitive Use: Design is easy to understand and "figure out".
4. Perceptible Information: The design itself communicates efficiently to the
user.
5. Tolerance for Error: The design is safe and minimizes consequences of
accidents.
6. Low Physical Effort: The design can be used without strenuous exertion.
7. Appropriate Size and Space for Approach and Use.
For more article log onto:
http://www.sabuilding-remodeling.com/articles.html
About The Author
|
