Universal Design - A Housing Option Appealing to Seniors &Young Families Too

The term "Universal Design" refers to a wide range of architectural and construction ideas and products meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to both the able-bodied and the physically disabled.

Universal design elements include such things as

• No-step entry
  
• One-story living without stairs
  
• Wide doorways (32-36 inches) and hallways (36-42 inches)
  
• Pull handles instead of knobs on cabinetry
  
• Under-cabinet lighting
  
• Adjustable rods and pullout shelving in closets
  
• Lever handles on doors instead of knobs
  
• Walk-in showers and bathtubs
  

The "universal design" concept evolved from earlier "barrier-free" concepts, the broader accessibility movement, and adaptive and assistive technology. Universal design seeks to blend aesthetics as well as functionality into products.

As life expectancy increases and modern medicine increases the survival rate of those with significant injuries, illnesses, and birth defects, there is a growing interest in universal design by many forward-thinking architects and builders. There are many industries in which universal design has had strong market penetration but there are others in which it has not yet been adopted to any great extent. For example, while curb cuts or sidewalk ramps, essential for people in wheelchairs but also used by all, are a common example, the home building industry has just recently become interested in the concept.

More Tampa Florida area homes are now being built with "universal design" features that will help boomers stay in their homes as they age. Interestingly, these features no longer evoke images of a hospital or nursing home room so they are beginning to appeal to younger demographic groups as well as seniors and the disabled.

In addition to kitchen and bathroom cabinets with pull-out shelves, kitchen counters at several heights to accommodate different tasks and postures, and walk-in bathtubs, there are now color-contrast dishware with steep sides that assist those with visual or dexterity problems. There is also growing use of lever door handles in place of the standard doorknob making it much easier for people with disabilities (as well as moms carrying a baby or bags of groceries) to open a door.

Perhaps the most interesting facet of the "universal design" concept is how quickly younger families are beginning to ask for such "ease-of-use" features in the homes they are considering building or buying.

For those interested in pursuing this further, there is a Universal Design video available for purchase that provides a lot of information about building and remodeling with universal design concepts.

As a Tampa Bay real estate agent, I have experience showing and selling homes which incorporate universal design concepts.

I would be delighted to help those who may be considering buying a home in the Tampa Bay Florida area identify builders employing "universal design" concepts in their new homes. I invite you to E-Mail Me or call me at 813-263-6806.