Universal Design 101
If you were following United Housing in early 2017, you likely heard about our project with Home Matters. Over the course of several months, we rehabbed and redesigned a home in Frayser for Walter, a local U.S. Army veteran. One of his greatest desires was to spend more time with his mother in his home. Prior to being selected as the Home Matters home recipient, he lived on the third story of an apartment complex. His mother, who used a wheelchair, was unable to make the climb up the stairs to visit him.
A lot of the media coverage discussed Walter and his story. But, there was also significant coverage of the home for compliance with universal design. The term “universal design” may not mean much to the average person, but it can make an enormous impact on homeowners.
Simply put, universal design is the thoughtful curation of a space that makes living easier for all people in all stages of life. In Walter’s case, it meant that the walkway up to his home was sloped rather than paved with steps. His hallways were wide enough for wheelchair access. His shower had a flat entry rather than a lip or a tub.
You may say, “well, I’m able-bodied, so I don’t need to worry about universal design.” While it’s true that you may live in a home that currently suits your needs just fine, it is not certain that your home will suit your needs forever. Universal design is about proactively preparing your home for any situation life my throw your way, whether or not you “need” it now. This creates homes that are sustainable for homeowners in the long run.
Additionally, universal design differs from assistive design. Generally, assistive design incorporates materials and products that are specifically created to meet the needs of individuals with specific disabilities. Universal design thoughtfully integrates standard consumer items and construction techniques to make a home navigable for all stages of life.
Incorporating universal design in your home does not have to be expensive or a massive undertaking. In fact, there are many small things that you can incorporate over time on a limited budget. So, what simple changes can you make to your home that follow universal design principles?
1. Install brighter lights for enhanced visibility.
Switching to LED light bulbs can brighten your space, making it easier to navigate while reducing your home’s electrical footprint.
2. Switch door handles from knob to lever-style.
Knob style handles can be difficult to open, especially for older individuals. Installing lever-style handles make doors easier to open.
3. Install an adjustable shower head.
A visit to your local hardware store will offer a number of shower head options that comply with the principles of universal design. Adjustable shower heads accommodate people of all heights, make showering easier for individuals in wheelchairs, and are helpful when bathing children.
4. Choose faucets with levers instead of knobs.
Similar to number two, faucets that require turning knobs are more difficult to use. When making improvements to your bathroom, opt for faucets with lever handles.
5. Switch to rocker light switches.
Rocker light switches are easier to operate because they don’t require the same fine motor skills as traditional switches.
If you want to make these changes to your home but can’t afford to remodel your home, we can help! United Housing offers a variety of lending programs, including home improvement loans, that will allow you to make these changes for your family. Learn more about our home repair loans here, and apply by visiting this link.
