subject: What Is Universal Design In Home Remodeling? [print this page] The term "Universal Design" seems to be everywhere. But what does it actually mean?
Universal Design can be applied to a wide variety of things, including instructional materials, vehicles, computer programs, museum displays, science lab equipment, or public buildings. When referring to residential home remodeling, Universal Design usually means designing and constructing features that will allow the home to be used by a wide variety of users, including those who are short, tall, old, young, physically challenged, blind, etc. When remodeling your home, it's good to keep Universal Design in mind. Not only does it make your home "user-friendly," it can also increase its resale value.
Below is a description of some of the principles of Universal Design and examples of how they can apply to home remodeling.
Equality: The design is useful and appealing to people with diverse abilities. All users can use it in an identical - or at least equivalent - way. A house might have an elevator in addition to stairs.
Flexibility: The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities. It provides choices in methods of use and can accommodate right- or left-handed users. For example, controls on a stove do not favor right-handed people.
Simplicity: The design is easy to understand and intuitive to use, regardless of the user's experience or ability. The way to operate the shower is immediately apparent.
Safety: The design minimizes hazards and provides fail safe features. The home provides grip bars in the bathroom and carpets are firmly affixed to prevent tripping.
Easy: The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue. It can be operated with reasonable force and a minimum of physical effort. Doors have easy-to-open levers rather than handles.
Adequate Size and Space: The design accommodates different means of approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user's body size, posture, or mobility. Everything is within reach of a standing or seated user. The design allows for differences in hand and grip size. It provides adequate space for assistive devices. The kitchen provides counters and cabinets at different heights.
