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Design :
Universal Design
As you plan your new kitchen, consider how you can incorporate the
common-sense principles of so-called universal design. Universal design
takes its name from its all-ages, all-abilities approach to space
planning.
The basic idea is that if you build or remodel your kitchen with universal
design principles in mind, you can ensure that anyone who ties on an apron
will be able to comfortably and safely whip up dessert or wash the dishes.
Universal design guidelines can make the kitchen more practical for your
kids after school, for your elderly in-laws at holiday dinners, for a
loved one who requires wheelchair accessibility, or for yourself as you
grow older and your own physical needs change.
The guidelines go beyond accessible housing rules that have gotten a bad
rap over the years for their often clinical, institutional elements, such
as grab bars. Universal design principles not only consider accessibility
but also style and what will benefit the most people, regardless of age or
physical health.
For example, dishwashers in drawer units can make cleanup more convenient
for everyone, whether someone has a bad back or not. Likewise, magnetic
touch-and-release cabinet doors make access easy for arthritic hands or
for those of a 12-year-old, without sacrificing creative design.
Universal design also aims to eliminate the expense and hassle of
constantly adapting your home to your changing needs.
As you read through the general principles of universal design and how
they can be applied to kitchens, you’ll probably start thinking that the
recommendations sound like plain old common sense. That’s the point. Don’t
leave common sense out of your kitchen design!
And, if you do have special needs, such as wheelchair accessibility or
extra lighting, realize that you can meet those needs and still cook and
entertain in a stylish and beautiful space.
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