A home featuring Universal Design elements is a great way to improve your home’s value and increase its desirability. Universal Design focuses on improving design elements to make the home accessible and usable to all people, regardless of physical ability or limitations. By incorporating Universal Design elements into your home renovation, you can make it even more attractive to a wider range of potential buyers.
Improving accessibility doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your personal style. From installing grab bars to designing a wheelchair accessible shower, there are many Universal Design elements that can fit in with any aesthetic. The key is to keep in mind that Universal Design elements should be designed with ease of use and functionality in mind, rather than simply looking attractive.
Now that you understand the importance of Universal Design in improving the value of your home, let’s look at some ways to incorporate it.
Wheelchair Accessibility
Wheelchair accessibility is an essential part of Universal Design. Whether you want to make your home completely wheelchair accessible throughout or just add features in key areas, it’s important to think about accessibility from the beginning of the design and construction process. This can involve installing ramps or a platform lift for multi-level homes, widening doorways, and adding levers instead of handles throughout.
You can also make your home more wheelchair accessible by upgrading the landscaping. Level pathways, slip-resistant materials, and low-maintenance plants can all help ensure everyone can access your outdoor spaces.
Common Areas
Universal Design can also be incorporated into common areas like kitchens and bathrooms. To create a more usable space, consider lowering the height of the oven or counter, or installing pull-down shelving. In bathrooms, you can add a built-in shower bench or replace a tub with a low-threshold walk-in shower. Additionally, think about adding adjustable sinks or faucets, as well as grab bars in the shower and around the toilet.
For the kitchen, adding more accessible cabinets and drawers makes it easier for users to access items. Additionally, installing a pull-out wastebasket or a shallow sink can make it easier to reach items placed on the countertop.
In the living and dining areas, make sure that pathways and seating are easily accessible. This includes allowing ample space between furniture and making sure the furniture is low enough to sit or maneuver in comfortably. Additionally, adding natural lighting where possible can create a more inviting space.
Safety Features
Adding safety features to your home is important for all types of people. Installing a stair lift, handrails, or guardrails along steps and doorways makes it safer for all visitors. You may also want to consider adding lever door handles, slip-resistant flooring, and improving the lighting throughout the home.
Benefits of Universal Design
- Improves accessibility to the home for a wide range of people.
- Increases value and desirability of the home.
- Adds safety features that protect visitors of all ages and abilities.
- Reduces maintenance and ensures the home is usable over the long term.
- Encourages use of outdoor spaces and encourages healthier lifestyles.
Conclusion
Overall, incorporating Universal Design elements into your home is a great way to ensure it is usable and inviting for all visitors. By taking into account the needs of people of all ages and abilities, you can improve the value of your home while also making sure it is comfortable for everyone.