Universal Design Principles: Creating Homes for Everyone
Universal design is an approach to creating spaces that are accessible and usable by everyone, regardless of age, ability, or circumstance. In a world where inclusivity and accessibility are becoming increasingly important, universal design offers practical solutions that benefit all. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, incorporating universal design principles can make your space more functional, safe, and appealing. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding and applying universal design principles in your home.
What is Universal Design?
Universal design is the process of creating environments that are accessible to people with a wide range of abilities, disabilities, and other characteristics. The goal is to make spaces usable by everyone, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialised design. This approach not only benefits people with disabilities but also makes life easier for young children, the elderly, and even those with temporary injuries.
The Seven Principles of Universal Design
Developed by a group of architects, product designers, engineers, and environmental design researchers at North Carolina State University, the seven principles of universal design provide a framework for creating inclusive environments. These principles can be applied to homes, products, and public spaces.
1. Equitable Use
Definition: The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.
Application: Provide the same means of use for all users whenever possible. For example, a website designed to be accessible to everyone, including people who are blind, employs this principle. In homes, this could mean having lever handles on doors and windows, which are easier for everyone to use compared to traditional knobs.
2. Flexibility in Use
Definition: The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities.
Application: Provide choices in methods of use. For instance, a kitchen with adjustable-height countertops can accommodate users of different heights and those who use wheelchairs.
3. Simple and Intuitive Use
Definition: Use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level.
Application: Eliminate unnecessary complexity. Arrange information consistent with its importance. For example, a control panel with clear, intuitive buttons can be easily used by everyone, including those unfamiliar with the device.
4. Perceptible Information
Definition: The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities.
Application: Use different modes (pictorial, verbal, tactile) for redundant presentation of essential information. For example, television programming in noisy public areas should include captions.
5. Tolerance for Error
Definition: The design minimises hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.
Application: Arrange elements to minimise hazards and errors. For example, a stove with automatic shut-off features can prevent accidents.
6. Low Physical Effort
Definition: The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue.
Application: Allow users to maintain a neutral body position. For example, doors that require minimal force to open and close are easier for everyone to use.
7. Size and Space for Approach and Use
Definition: Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of the user’s body size, posture, or mobility.
Application: Ensure that all elements are reachable for both seated and standing users. For example, having wide hallways and doorways that accommodate wheelchairs and strollers.
Practical Applications in Home Design
Entryways and Exteriors
- Flat or Ramped Access: Ensure there are no steps between the street and the main entrance. This makes the home accessible for people using wheelchairs, strollers, or those with mobility issues.
- Covered Entry Porch: Provides shelter from the elements and a safe, dry area to enter the home.
- Wide Doorways: A minimum width of 910 mm is recommended to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids.
Kitchens
- Adjustable Counter Heights: Allows users of different heights and those in wheelchairs to work comfortably.
- Accessible Appliances: Place ovens, microwaves, and other appliances at heights that are reachable without bending or stretching.
- Lever Handles: Easier to use than traditional knobs, especially for those with limited hand strength.
Bathrooms
- Level-Entry Showers: No lip or step to navigate, making it accessible for wheelchairs and reducing the risk of tripping.
- Grab Bars: Strategically placed in showers and next to toilets to provide support.
- Outward-Opening Doors: Prevents being trapped inside if a fall occurs and allows for easier access in emergencies.
Living Areas
- Open Plan Layouts: Fewer walls and more open spaces make it easier to move around.
- Flexible Spaces: Rooms that can serve multiple functions, such as a guest room that doubles as a home office.
Lighting and Electrical
- Good Task Lighting: Ensures that work areas, such as kitchen counters and desks, are well-lit.
- Accessible Switches and Outlets: Place light switches and power outlets at heights that are reachable from a seated position.
Benefits of Universal Design
Easier for Everyone
Universal design makes homes easier for anyone to occupy without needing to modify layouts. This includes young children, elderly individuals, and people using mobility aids.
Increased Safety
Features like non-slip flooring, grab bars, and level transitions reduce the risk of accidents, making homes safer for everyone.
Future-Proofing
Building with universal design principles in mind ensures that your home can accommodate changing needs over time, whether due to aging, injury, or the arrival of young children.
Market Appeal
Homes with universal design features are more attractive to a wider range of buyers, increasing their marketability and potentially their resale value.
Cost-Effective
According to BRANZ research, it is considerably cheaper and less disruptive to incorporate universal design features during the initial build rather than retrofitting them later.
Conclusion
Universal design is about creating homes that are accessible, safe, and comfortable for everyone. By incorporating these principles into your home design, you can create a space that not only meets your current needs but also adapts to future changes. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, consider the benefits of universal design and how it can enhance your living environment.
For more information and resources on universal design, visit BRANZ and the Centre for Excellence in Universal Design. These organisations provide valuable insights and practical advice to help you create a home that truly works for everyone.
