Planning a Kitchen with a Universal Design
When you’re remodeling or designing your dream kitchen, you should aim to go for a universal design. Universal design is the design of an environment that can be accessed and used by everyone, regardless of age, size, or ability. The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, because it’s the room where everyone gathers and comes together, it’s also the most frequently used. Because of this, it should be designed to accommodate anyone.
Open Up the Layout
The first thing to plan out when creating a universal layout is to make sure there is enough room for everyone to move around comfortably. There should always be a turning space in the kitchen; this is a five-foot-diameter space clear of obstructions where a wheelchair can turn around.
If you’re thinking of installing a kitchen island, you should ensure that there is enough space between it and the walls or counters that everyone can maneuver properly. And, of course, you should ensure that the doorway is wide enough that anyone can get through.
Use Pull-Out Storage Options
Pull-out storage options for trash and shelves are a major aspect of universal design. They are easily maneuvered by people of all ages and abilities and are highly desired in many modern kitchens. Pull-out storage is especially nice because it makes it easier to see what’s in your cabinets instead of having to fish around in the back blindly. They’re easy to organize and grab whatever pots and pans you might need.
Open Shelves Instead of Closed Cabinets
Speaking of being able to find and access everything, open shelving is probably the easiest way to do exactly that. Everything you need is right there, out in the open, on display and easy to grab. Removing closed-door cabinets and replacing them with open shelves makes it easier for anyone who might have trouble with opening drawers or doors. It also removes the clearance needed to open cabinet doors.
Install Single-Lever Faucets
Hot and cold knobs aren’t always easy for people who have arthritis or trouble gripping things. Instead, you should select a sink with a single lever, as that’s infinitely more accessible. However, you should also ensure that it’s easy to determine which direction the lever moves to provide hot or cold water.
Keep Appliances Low
It’s important to keep appliances, like ovens, dishwashers, and even microwaves, at a height that anyone can access. A universal design requires anyone to be able to reach these essential appliances without trouble. This usually involves installing them beneath the countertop, but that also has the benefit of freeing up more countertop space for other items or decorations.
Universal design is meant to make your kitchen accessible and easy to use for everyone, so when you’re planning your dream kitchen, keep these factors in mind. It can make your kitchen more welcoming to family and guests, increase its resale value, and simply make better use of the space than a standard kitchen design. Contact us today to start designing with the help of our experienced architects.
