Houston Remodeling Guide 2008: Good Design; Something for All Ages & Abilities

Good architectural and interior design should enhance living for occupants of all ages and abilities. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Use a critical eye to evaluate your next home or remodel. Here are some considerations which, when done at the onset of a project, will not have major financial consequences.

Evaluate the lighting in each room; it can“ “make or break” an interior. Is there ample general, task and ambient lighting? The occupant will provide some of this lighting, but one ceiling fixture is not adequate under most circumstances. To increase functionality, consider under cabinet lighting, the amount of closet lighting, and night lighting for passages and stairways. Also tubular skylights are another way to provide additional lighting. They are quickly installed by a professional, provide considerably more light than their demure size would indicate and also require no electricity. Examine placement of electrical switches. When placed at 42 inches from the floor instead of the customary 48 to 54 inches, they are much easier for children and those in wheelchairs to reach, but the lower placement does not inconvenience an able-bodied adult. Toggle flat switches are easier to operate and present a cleaner look on the wall.

Standard exterior doors are 36 inches wide, so why not place wider doors on the interior as well? Wider doors of 32 to 36 inches, rather than the standard 30-inch interior doors, are easier to pass through, especially when carrying packages, laundry or moving furniture. This width will also more easily accommodate wheelchairs and other accessible devices. Consider door levers over knobs. They are easier to operate and are available in a wide variety

of styles, finishes and price points. Once again, these changes make operation and mobility around the house much easier for people of all ages and abilities.

In the bathroom, consider grab bars in the shower and tub, as well as the toilet area. Grab bars are especially helpful for children, the elderly, handicapped and anyone who is ill, be it long-term or simply the flu. Too often when slipping on wet surfaces or losing their balance, adults and children alike will dangerously grab for towel racks, which are not designed to carry human weight and may pull out of the wall. Grab bars come in a variety of styles, finishes and sizes. Additionally, consider showers with a 60-inch interior radius that have built-in or fold down seats, hand-held shower sprays and wide doors with low profile thresholds. These provide long time service regardless of age or ability.

In the kitchen and laundry areas, place microwave ovens and dishwasher drawers under counters, providing easy access to children, wheelchair occupants and a safer height for all. Install drawers, rather than shelves with doors and pull-out cabinets. When moving to the laundry room, consider raised, front-loading appliances, pull down hanging racks and lower surfaces, 28 to 30-inch heights, rather than 36 inches, for folding.

All of these considerations can make life easier for everyone, and if evaluated at the onset of a project, will not constitute a significant expense. Good architectural and interior design is available and should be considered a requirement. By consulting an architect, interior designer or professional remodeler, good accessible design can be incorporated into most residential projects.