Home Remodeling for Universal Needs
Topic: Universal Design
Author: Renee Rutledge
Published: 2009/02/10
Contents: Summary - Introduction - Main Item - Related Topics
Synopsis: Designing open spaces and wide home entryways give access to wheelchairs and help prevent injuries using universal design ideas.
Introduction
Universally designed homes should look and feel like home, without sacrifice to personal taste and style. That's why universal design has so much appeal. This branch of remodeling, about creating homes that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy, is one of the fastest growing in the residential remodeling industry.Main Item
Universally designed homes should look and feel like home, without sacrifice to personal taste and style. Learn more about the latest trends in home remodeling using universal design.
That's why universal design has so much appeal. This branch of remodeling, about creating homes that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy, is one of the fastest growing in the residential remodeling industry. Here are some reasons why:
It appeals to baby boomers, the millions in the U.S. nearing retirement age, who want comfortable homes that incorporate modifications for the aging-in-place.
Disabled or older homeowners want to remain safe and independent at home, and universal design helps them maintain their lifestyle of choice.
In the stagnant real estate market, more homeowners are choosing to keep their homes rather than selling and buying anew. Their substitute? Remodeling towards greater comfort.
Universal design can be incorporated without sacrifice to style.
Universal design is practical for growing families and empty nester's alike. Abilities and needs are diverse, and this school of remodeling takes this into consideration.
What are some examples, you might ask. Here are a few:
Open spaces and wide entryways give access to wheelchairs and help prevent injuries.
In the kitchen, lower workstations provide access to a chair.
In the kitchen, adjustable counter-tops give access to workspace and storage.
Easy-to-reach storage can easily be implemented in the kitchen through helpful tools like Lazy Susan's and lowered shelving.
In the bathroom, safety features such as grab bars, hand rails, and shower seats are common.Don't get the wrong idea.
Universally designed homes should look and feel like home, without sacrifice to personal taste and style.
Choose beautiful Bay windows with lower sills, adorn your wide entryway with decorative scrolls or fretwork, and make sure those lowered light switches turn on spectacular lighting. Even a safe bathroom can have the appeal of an at-home spa.
Explore Related Topics
1 - Japan's Adoption of Universal Design Ahead of Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games - Japan promotes universal design for inclusive society that is comfortable and accessible to everyone regardless of age, nationality and ability ahead of Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.
2 - Makerspaces: Universal Design and Accessibility - University of Washington researchers release new guidelines aimed at ensuring makerspaces are accessible to people with disabilities.
3 - Accessible Bathroom Solutions - Independence in the bathroom is one of the most challenging tasks for accessibility and safety in the home.
4 - Assessing Your Home Accessibility Needs - People with disabilities who are considering the purchase of a home need to assess their accessibility needs.
5 - Panther Inclusive Technology - Review of Panther Technology a company dedicated to combining advancements in design technology user interface and Universal Design by providing technological access for everyone.
Page Information, Citing and Disclaimer
Disabled World is a comprehensive online resource that provides information and news related to disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility issues. Founded in 2004 our website covers a wide range of topics, including disability rights, healthcare, education, employment, and independent living, with the goal of supporting the disability community and their families.
Cite This Page (APA): Renee Rutledge. (2009, February 10). Home Remodeling for Universal Needs. Disabled World. Retrieved October 6, 2024 from www.disabled-world.com/assistivedevices/design/home-remodeling.php
Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/assistivedevices/design/home-remodeling.php">Home Remodeling for Universal Needs</a>: Designing open spaces and wide home entryways give access to wheelchairs and help prevent injuries using universal design ideas.
Disabled World provides general information only. Materials presented are never meant to substitute for qualified medical care. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.