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.
- 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.