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Universal Design

Today many "empty nesters" and retirees are deciding to stay in their homes and remodel them, for the idea of moving and downsizing has become less financially desirable. They love their homes and neighborhoods, have done landscaping and other special things which reflect their own taste and personality. With the high prices of new land and new construction, the cost of building a new "retirement home" is huge, far more than remodeling. Now they are making commitments to make the changes to their homes that they always wanted, but could not accomplish while raising their families. These are usually mid-life adults who have many active years ahead.
But there are, however, critical elements in their remodeling needs. In addition to the desire to add their own personality details, "Aging in Place Universal Designs" should be considered. As they, their parents and friends become less mobile, elements should be included which provide "function now" and "adaptability later" to prepare for future contingencies. By using "Universal Design Criteria" it is possible to provide the most possible comfortable years of living in their own homes. The cost of "assisted living" is very high. Investing in intelligent remodeling to upgrade the functionality of the space, while adding the design features they always dreamed of, is small cost in the total picture. If they can eliminate or delay years of "assisted living", they will save money, be happier, and most likely, live longer.
The new "Universal Design" options are remarkable. The day of hospital-style accessibility products and features has gone. There is an endless variety of beautiful "high-end" options that can satisfy the taste of the most discriminating clients. A splendid book showing many of the ideas and options is "Universal Design for the Home" by Wendy A. Jordan. She shows beautiful pictures of practical and detailed solutions to allow for "aging in place" in your own home.

When one is thinking of remodeling with "Universal Design" as a guiding principle, there are simple features which can be integrated with minimal additional cost. These include:

  • Make all interior doors at least 2'8" wide (2'10" even better), especially for bathrooms.
  • Add blocking behind sheet rock and full plywood behind shower stalls so that grab bars and handrails can later be added if needed.
  • Design kitchens with peninsulas instead of islands
  • Kitchen, pantry, laundry and vanity cabinets should have as many slide-outs as possible.
  • Some counters should be lower than standard height.
  • Build shower units with minimal (or no) curbs.
  • Provide bed and bath options on the first floor level.
  • Use zero clearance or maximum ½" thresholds for doors and flooring transitions.


Pictures used with permission from "Universal Design for the Home" by Wendy Jordan