People who inhabit and visit the houses we live in come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from infants to seniors, with various ever-changing abilities and skills. As we grow up, grow old and welcome new people to our homes, our housing needs change. A house that is designed and constructed to reflect the principles of universal design will be safer and more accommodating to the diverse range of ages and abilities of people who live in and visit these homes.
Everyone appreciates having a kitchen that is safe, spacious and easy to use. The successful design of a universally accessible kitchen starts with identifying potential users and anticipating their needs.
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
A universally designed kitchen is comfortable and safe for all family members. It considers all the design elements of a kitchen:
- its location in the house
- location of appliances and workspaces
- floor, wall and counter surfaces
- types of lighting
- ways to reduce noise, and
- overall use of colour and space.
Ask yourself
- Are you a gourmet cook or do you prefer to microwave prepared food?
- Do you have a disability that affects the way you prepare food?
- Are there usually two or three cooks in the kitchen at one time?
- Does a caregiver do most of the cooking?
- Do you have a child you need to keep an eye on while preparing meals?
- Would a nearby space for homework be useful?
These are important considerations that will help you identify your kitchen design requirements.
If you are considering buying a new home and want to explore accessible kitchen designs, talk to me about a Purchase Plus Improvements mortgage.
photo source: armchairbuilder.com/resources/how-to-build-your-own-home
