Considering the Future with Universal Design

By Delores L. Hyden, CKD, CBD
Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer

If we all had access to crystal balls that allowed us to peak into the future, we could anticipate our future needs and make correct decisions accordingly. Since this is not an option, it is a wise decision when planning a home or a remodel to consider designing the space so it can be used comfortably by persons of any age and ability.

Although the federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 assures access for those with disabilities to public facilities, places of employment and in multi-housing, there is no code for single family residences. This is left as an individual choice and responsibility and sorting through the information can be confusing.

There are a number of labels used to describe the focus on accessibility: accessible design, adaptable design, barrier free, lifetime homes, permanent homes and universal design.

Accessible design is barrier free and focuses on unique design applications that are obviously meant to accommodate one with disabilities; most often those dependent upon a wheelchair. The home that incorporates accessible design meets all the prescribed requirements for accessible housing.

Often, due to the appearance of accessible design homeowners may not want to include these special accommodations in a design that is not necessarily needed at that time. This is where adaptable design might be an acceptable choice to bridge the gap. An adaptable design has all the same accessible features but allows some to be concealed or omitted until needed so the home retains its conventional design. At the time of conversion, this home can be modified by even unskilled labor to readily meet the requirements for accessible design.

Universal design refers to a space that can be approached, entered and used by anyone, regardless of age or ability. Some of the common architectural barriers to universal accessibility have been addressed in the initial construction such as: Maximum door widths, adequate space for wheelchair turning radius, blocking for garb bars, easily removable base cabinets, lever handles instead of knobs, scald proof faucets, adjustable shower heads or personal hand held showers, non slip floors, level access shower stalls without a curb but with a seat, good task lighting, no stairs on the main floor, adjustable sinks, racks, shelves, pull out drawers, lowered light switches and raised electrical outlets, controls on the front range, separate cooktop, oven built in at 30"-42" above the floor varied countertop heights, contrasting edges on countertops, pull out surfaces at lower levels in kitchen and bath, all doors opening outward, and mirrors at varying heights or to the floor.

Looking over this list, you will have to agree that each of these items would be a desirable feature in any design. To include them initially would be a modest cost increase if any at all and would allow future modifications to adapt to be barrier free for persons with special needs.

Universal design does not look institutional, even grab bars can be attractive when textured (better for gripping), powder coated to match other fixtures or accessories, swing up out of the way, or double as a toilet tissue holder with the help of an accessory attachment.

How many times have you had difficulty turning on a faucet with wet hands or had to set down an armload to turn a doorknob when a lever could have been operated with an elbow. Anyone with a chronic back problem appreciates the convenience of an oven or dishwasher at an accessible height or roll out shelves or drawers in base cabinets.

As America "grays" not only will the need for better mobility change, but the need for better lighting as well. Adequate lighting is essential in performing tasks and helps to relieve fatigue associated with poor vision. Contrasting edges on countertops, stairs and edges of hallways help those with visual impairments distinguish between surfaces.

Universal design is planning with foresight as we travel through life's seasons. As a child needs to be protected from scalding water out of a tap, so might a senior adult with an impaired sense of touch. By anticipating the needs of our future, whether it be a short-term disability such as a broken bond or a degenerating disability, we can empower individuals by eliminating barriers. Ergonomically designed spaces and products can benefit all individuals. Countertops for instance do not need to be the same height throughout a space-not only does it work better to have the height match the user or the task, or accommodate a cook, but it is also more aesthetically pleasing.

When planning your new kitchen or bath, a Certified Kitchen and Bath designer can assist you in creating a universal design that strives to make every area and product work better for everybody.

Further information can be obtained from the Easter Seal Society, the Center for Accessible Housing at North Carolina State University and Veterans Benefits Administration at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The National Kitchen and Bath Association has also established guidelines for universal design.