By Justin Bravo from Lone Star Contractors, the WOAI.com remodeling expert
SAN ANTONIO - Whether you are considering a full scale renovation project, a room addition, or a small bathroom or kitchen remodel, it is important that you incorporate "universal design" into the project’s plans.
Universal design is based on the idea that your home should serve all of the people who live in it. People come in all sizes, shapes and abilities, and you will want your new home to be able to adapt to your lifestyle no matter what age group you are in. You also want to make sure that your home could easily adapt to the lifestyle of potential buyers if you chose to sell your home. It’s important to consider the resale value of your project when remodeling by considering how easily your home or project’s layout could be utilized by others.
Universal design in many ways is green design. By planning ahead, you can save thousands of dollars and save a lot of resources by not having to remodel your home again in the future as your needs change. Instead of making your home adapt to your changing needs, build a home that can support your changing lifestyle for years to come.
Here are some universal design features that are very important and should be a part of your remodeling project:
- Doors – Make exterior doors at least 36″ wide opening and interior doors at least 32″ wide but preferably 36″ wide also.
- Hallways – Keep hallways to a minimum because they are a waste of space; however, the ones that are necessary should be 48″ wide.
- Stairways – Keep stairways also at 48″ wide.
- Turning Radius - Maintain a turning radius equaling 60″ in all open spaces and especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Bathrooms - Design showers with a zero step entry, install grab bars, and a shower bench.
- Kitchens – Install ADA-Compliant cabinetry and plumbing fixtures.
When building new or remodeling, consider Universal Design practices in your plans. Remember that universal design doesn’t have to lack individualism and uniqueness in your design, it can simply add to it.
