What do you know about "universal design"? While accessible products accommodate people with disabilities, universal design takes accessibility a step further, by asserting that homes should accommodate all people, including those of different ability, height, and age. Universal design means true accessibility.
By incorporating universal design into kitchens, you can give your homes a competitive edge by meeting the increasing demand for accessible living environments in today’s homes. Features such as adjustable countertops and cabinets, undercounter kneespace, and pullout shelves provide accessible work surfaces and storage that can be used by all of the members of a household, including those with physical disabilities. An investment in universal design can make your homes stand out from the rest by adding value that today's homebuyers appreciate.
The percentage of senior citizens has almost doubled since 1950, and approximately 49 million Americans have some type of disability. These groups represent the two fastest growing population segments. Designers and manufacturers that recognize the demands of these population segments are creating spaces and products to accommodate them.
There are many manufacturers of cabinets and accessories for kitchen accessibility. For example, one has a modular system of base cabinet segments, countertops, and wall cabinets mounted on vertical tracks for manual or motorized adjustability. Another manufactures hardware that (via remote control or manual crank) adjusts the height of wall cabinets and/or countertops. They also distributes a device that provides access to wall-cabinet shelves by mounting them on a gliding unit that pulls down. Some manufacture Lazy-Susans, full-extension slides for drawers and shelves, container lids that open, or shelves that slide out when the cabinet door is opened, and baskets mounted on the back of cabinet doors. One manufacturer produces a dumbwaiter with a 75-pound capacity. Another manufactures cabinet that allows bifold base-cabinet doors to open fully, providing maximum use of clear kneespace for seated users, and a stepstool that conveniently folds away into the toekick under the base cabinet.
Some manufacturers make countertops in contrasting colors and surface textures to accommodate users who are visually impaired. Countertops with raised edges to prevent spills can be included. Outlets and switches should be mounted at easily-accessible locations. Accessible hardware such as D-pulls or extended-wire pulls on cabinet doors may be a good choice. Food pantries which are accessed on one side from the kitchen and on the other from the garage can be filled directly from the car after a shopping trip. Cabinet manufacturers make a host of pull-out accessories, including trays/cutting boards, work surfaces, vegetable bins, ironing boards, and wastebaskets.
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Universal design kitchen cabinets and accessories can improve the safety and accessibility of kitchens for homeowners of all ages and abilities.
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Many manufacturers have accessible cabinets and accessories widely available through distributor stock.
Costs will vary widely, but usually universal design features will cost more than builder-specified cabinets.
There may be some maintenance costs and slight increase in electricity costs associated with motorized accessories.
There are no code requirements for universal design of kitchen for private single-family homes.
There are Federal guidelines which require clear floorspace in front of kitchen appliances to provide accessibility for people in wheelchairs. However, there are no requirements for accessible cabinets.
There are three Federal laws that include information relating to accessible kitchens: The Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) references the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS) and covers buildings built or operated with federal funding. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) includes legislation that applies to all housing built or operated using state and local government programs or funds. The Fair Housing Act (FHA) applies to all multi-family housing with four or more units built after March 13, 1991.
These regulations reference the ANSI A117.1 Standards for Usable and Accessible Buildings and Facilities.
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Installation varies according to product and manufacturer. Wall-mounted cabinets and accessories generally require structural support in walls, and some may require specific tracks or brackets.
Warranty will vary with manufacturer and product.
While the cost of some accessible features can be high, many are available for modest prices. Although accessible cabinetry is not required by code or law, it should appeal to many homebuyers, adding value and marketability to a home.
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