Building with Universal Design
WHAT IS UNIVERSAL DESIGN?
Universal Design is the design of homes and communities to make them more accessible and usable by as many people as possible regardless of their size, age or ability. These homes and communities are inclusive, safe and flexible connecting accessible homes to the larger community through sidewalks, transportation and essential services. People of all ages and abilities choose to live in these sustainable communities where they can remain safely in their homes for as long as they choose. But few of these communities exist at a time when we need them most. Homeowners are forced to leave their homes when their family increases in size, someone becomes disabled, or a family member becomes elderly.
WHY CARE ABOUT UNIVERSAL DESIGN?
Our current housing stock and communities do not adequately support the changing needs of aging adults or the physically impaired. In the US, 47.5 million adults and 8.3 million children have a disability. 80% of the Baby Boomers (8,000 per day turn 65 until 2030) own their own homes and want to age-in-place. Current homes are not designed to accommodate these changes. Some homeowners may overcome a few obstacles by renovating their homes with wider doorways, a zero-step entry, or an accessible bathroom; but other challenges may exist when they enter their communities--missing sidewalks, limited transportation or the inability to visit neighbors. Developers can look at this as an opportunity. Universally Designed homes and neighborhoods can provide unique branding for Developers by meeting the needs of all ages and abilities while greatly expanding their network of potential buyers.
BUILDING UNIVERSAL DESIGN INTO THE HOME
Developers can play a large role in improving our current housing stock by retrofitting and building new homes and communities with Universal Design features. They can provide:
An open floor plan with the kitchen, master suite, bathroom and laundry on the main floor.
A zero-step entry on an accessible route from the driveway or public sidewalk allowing wheeled access to the home.
34"wide door clearances, lever handles, and reinforced walls in the bathroom allowing for the easy installation of grab bars.
The placement and selection of electrical outlets, appliances and light switches to meet the needs of residents with various heights and abilities.
Varied styles and sizes of homes within a neighborhood.
A demonstration home, provided by the Developer, can educate the public on the value and affordability of Universal Design. On average, incorporating Universal Design features into a new home adds $4,000-$8,000 to the overall cost.
PROMOTING UNIVERSAL DESIGN IN THE COMMUNITY
Learn more about Universal Design and share what you know with fellow builders, clients and realtors.
Incorporate Universal Design features within the homes you build and for retrofits you make to existing homes.
Join committees within your community to provide input on decisions around housing, aging-in-place, community development, parts, transportation, greenways, etc.
Raise awareness of the need for Universal Design by writing letters to the newspaper editor, blogging or speaking to interested groups.
For more information on Universal Design, go to:
