Accessible Storage Solutions for Universal Design Homes
Author: Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2011/05/05 - Updated: 2026/01/13
Publication Type: Instructive / Helpful
Category Topic: Universal Design - Related Publications
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates
Synopsis: This information provides practical guidance on creating accessible storage solutions through universal design principles that benefit people with mobility limitations, seniors, and anyone seeking easier access to household items. The content is authoritative because it focuses on proven adaptive design strategies, including pull-down closet rods, rolling carts, and furniture with built-in storage options that eliminate the need for step stools or excessive reaching. These recommendations prove particularly valuable for individuals with disabilities who require storage within comfortable reach zones, while also serving families and aging-in-place residents who want to maintain independence in their homes. The straightforward tips address real-world challenges by maximizing existing cabinet and closet space through specialized hardware and thoughtful organization - Disabled World (DW).
Introduction
Storage is one of the top requirements people look for in a home. For some that means deep closets or large basements or attics. For others, it means accessible storage; easy access to what you need without having to use a step stool or move things out of the way.
Main Content
Tips to help you stretch and organize your living space with universally designed, accessible storage:
Use furniture with storage options:
Shelves can be part of the decor and serve as storage at the same time, not just for books and toys. Sweaters or shirts in the bedroom, small appliances in the kitchen, serving pieces in the dining room. Keep small items like socks, kitchen gadgets or loose photos in baskets or canvas totes on the shelves.
Many tables come with a lower shelf that can hold baskets or store favorite books.
A bench seat in the entryway can store shoes, gloves and scarves.
Nightstands can serve as storage too.
Rolling kitchen carts or trolleys store small appliances, serving pieces or craft materials. Roll it wherever you are setting things up, then move it out of the way until clean up time.
Make full use of your existing cabinets and closets.
A pull down closet rod makes use of the upper part of the closet you can't reach. The rod is on hinges with a handle to pull the rod down or push it back up.
Pull down shelving in the cabinet makes use of hard to reach areas, narrow pull out racks take advantage of small filler spaces between cabinets and pull out corner shelving makes use of the blind corner on a base cabinet.
When you store things you don't use every day, you still want to be able to reach them. With accessible storage, you can get organized and create lots of storage space that is easy to reach!
Insights, Analysis, and Developments
Editorial Note: Accessible storage represents more than just a convenience - it's a fundamental aspect of creating truly inclusive living environments. When homes incorporate these universal design principles from the start, they naturally accommodate residents across all stages of life, from raising young children to aging in place. The beauty of these solutions lies in their practicality: pull-down rods, rolling carts, and strategically placed shelving don't announce themselves as "accessibility features" but simply work better for everyone. As housing costs rise and multigenerational living becomes more common, these design choices transform from specialized accommodations into smart standards that future-proof homes while preserving the dignity and independence of all who live in them - Disabled World (DW).
Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.