When Dede and Ray Noonan remodeled the small shower in their master bathroom, the Dunwoody couple wanted it to be larger, more comfortable and easier to access.
As part of the project, they moved the shower head and replaced the old door with a seamless glass door that opens in and out. Along with new travertine tile, they added a built-in bench.
“The shower is so much more comfortable and easier for us to use,” Dede said.
Like many homeowners, the Noonans updated the shower to suit their needs. They did not realize at the time they were incorporating elements of universal design into their remodel — without changing their home’s layout.
Universal design, often referred to as multigenerational design, aims to create products and spaces that allow people of all ages and physical abilities to live comfortably and safely without the need for adaptation or specialized design. It also acknowledges that abilities change over time.
An open floor plan, which many young homeowners want, is one of several universal design elements. Others include larger showers with built-in seats, slide-out cabinet drawers and wider corridors and doors.
“There is confusion in the marketplace about universal design,” said Michael Kornowa, director of marketing at Sugar Hill-based MTI Baths, a manufacturer of high-end bath products. “People equate universal design with ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) rules, but they are different.”
The ADA requires that new or renovated buildings open to the public provide reasonable access and functionality to people with physical disabilities. Universal design focuses on your home.
Although the distinctions between the ADA rules and universal design may seem subtle, they nevertheless lead to different ways of thinking about home design.
While you may be healthy and able now, think about how an accident, a temporary injury or your future needs as you age might change.
There are many ways you can adapt stylish, universal design concepts when you remodel spaces in your home. Consider these tips from various sources, including MTI Baths, General Electric, Remodeling magazine and houzz.com.
Kitchen
- Cooktops and ranges. Induction cooktops and ranges are the safest cooking appliances to use because there aren't open flames or hot burner coils that children or adults might accidentally touch. Smooth-touch controls over knobs are also preferred.
- Drawer appliances. Dishwashers, microwaves, refrigerators and freezers are available. With pullout drawers, these appliances can be installed below the counter, keeping them within easy reach.
- Ovens. A side-opening oven door mounted at the right height makes it easier to reach in and remove food from the oven.
- Raised base cabinets. Taller toe-kicks help raise base cabinetry off the floor for easier access with less bending. Setting toe-kicks back a few inches also leaves space for wheelchair footrests.
- Cabinet drawers. Opt for pullout cabinetry drawers (instead of doors), slide-out shelves and other organizational solutions to bring items to you — and eliminate reaching and bending.
- Counters and islands. Kitchen designs should feature different countertop heights for all users, regardless of age or mobility. Table-style islands and peninsulas (with only legs, and no cabinets beneath) allow for roll-up access.
Bathroom
- Showers. Trench or linear floor drains eliminate the threshold of a shower and allow roll-in or easy walk-in access. If a shower curb needs to be installed, make sure it's as low as possible. If you have a door, make sure it swings in and out.
- Fixtures and faucets. Make sure fixtures are within reach. Grab bars and rails now come in stylish and sturdy models to suit any decor. The hose of hand showers should be long enough to reach anywhere in the shower. A faucet mounted on the side of the sink is easier to reach.
- Toilets. A comfort-height toilet that sits 17 inches, with the seat, off the floor is preferred. To help with self-cleaning, toilet seats with bidet plumbing and features are on the rise.
- Counters. Allow space under the sink and counter to make access from the front or side easier. Pedestal sinks are popular choices when space is tight.
Lighting
- Indoor. A good lighting plan involves three types of lighting: ambient (or general), accent and task lighting (in and under cabinets). Add dimmable lighting wherever possible. Don't overlook lighting in hallways and on stairs, where steps and railing can be lighted. And if your shower or bath is dark, add an overhead light or LED grab bars.
- Outdoor. Universally designed exterior lighting ensures a smooth transition between indoors and out, day or night. Light outdoor spaces from your home's entrance to backyard patios and walkways.
Other features
- Doors and doorways. Doorways should be at least 3 feet wide and provide a smooth, curb-less transition from one room to the next — or between indoors and out. Pocket doors work well in bathrooms and free up floor space.
- Cabinet and door hardware. Replace your doorknobs, cabinet hardware and faucets with lever-handled versions. Wide drawer and cabinet pulls are also easy to open and close.
- Elevator. Aging in place is a good reason to have an elevator (or the space for one down the road). But there are others. An elevator can move groceries and laundry between floors in a multilevel home.
- Floors. Secure rugs or eliminate them to avoid mobility issues or trip hazards. If you are forgoing rugs or carpet, choose nonskid flooring or a smooth flooring, such as concrete.
- Remote controls. Beyond your TV, remote controls can control lighting, window shades and your AC/heating systems.
- Outside. Instead of wood, use a concrete ramp that blends into the landscaping and resembles a low terrace wall.
