Principles of Universal Design and Remodeling Presented by: NAME HERE

What is Universal Design? Universal design is a worldwide movement based on the idea that homes should be easily accessed and used by all members of the family, regardless their age, size, or physical abilities.

What is Universal Design? There are seven principles of Universal Design, according to The Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University. They are: Equitable use Flexibility in use Simple and intuitive use Perceptible information Tolerance for error Low physical effort Size and space for approach and use This slide you can talk about what types of changes you can make to update your home to make it more comfortable to all.

Who Needs Universal Design? By Spring 2011, Multi-generational living had increased 21.8 million—representing 18.3 percent of households. According to AARP, 84% of Baby Boomers would like to remain in their home as they age. There are an estimated 76 million people in that generation. This slide you can talk about some of the modifications a homeowner might not think of, if they want to remain in their home as they age (i.e. wider doorways, barrier-free showers, grab bars, etc.)

Why is Universal Design Important? Families are sharing the responsibilities of home life. Evolution of how responsibilities are carried out. Average life expectancy continues to increase. A typical family contains members of widely varying ages, sizes and abilities. We should not be forced to move because a house is not adaptable to family change. On this slide, you can use examples in the home, like countertop heights (how this impacts children helping in the kitchen) or light switch heights.

How do Homeowners get Universal Design? Professional contractors are trained to conduct a client needs assessment. Contractors will: Recognize barriers using age and building restrictions. Conduct a home audit for every area of the home. Incorporate unique lifestyle and long-term environmental changes into needs. Advise clients based on emerging technologies, construction techniques and social services. NARI’s Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) designation educates and tests contractors on Universal Design practices specifically in remodeling. A trained professional knows what questions to ask and common home accessibility barriers. Their expertise in remodeling gives them the ability to address client needs through customization of design solutions. Professionals will also bring a in-depth knowledge of the latest building techniques, products and technologies to your project.

What does Universal Design Look Like? Universal Design features in the bathroom. Barrier-free or curbless showers, grab bars Front-mounted faucets can prevent stretching to turn on and off. Open area under sink. Adjustable, wall-mounted mirror angles forward for wheelchair users Slightly raised toilet seat lessens strain of transferring from a wheelchair or sitting down. Substitute your own images/description of Universal Design features in the bathroom. Discuss examples of addressing a client’s needs in a bathroom with a universal design solution or a feature incorporated into the bathroom for easy universal design integration in the future (like blocking in walls). Bathrooms are commonly updated with universal design in mind, including height adjustments, grab bars, curbless showers, adjustable storage or mirrors, or motion-sensored technologies are incorporated into this space. DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Greater Grand Rapids, Comstock Park, Michigan, 2017 Region 4 East Central CotY Award Winner, Universal Design Project Recognition, Residential Bath $25,000 to $50,000

What does Universal Design Look Like? Universal Design features in the kitchen: Additional counter space, with increased width near stovetop. Staging area next to oven, where something can be placed while opening/closing door. Additional width between counters and island. Additional legroom in sitting areas. Accessible storage under counters. Increased lighting and task lighting in sink, range and food prep areas. Substitute your own photos and descriptions of Universal Design examples in the kitchen. Highlight kitchen universal design features that blend in nicely, like hidden refrigeration drawers or lowered microwaves, actually complement the overall kitchen design. Or, opening the first floor space and traffic flow are important to entertaining purposes as well as accessibility. A. Fillinger, Inc., South Milwaukee, WI, 2015 NARI Universal Design Project Recognition

Other Common Universal Design Features? Exterior: Level entrances Controls: Thermostats, outlets, switches and window hardware must be placed within reasonable range of reach, require a minimal amount of dexterity. Windows: Awning windows, or top-hinged windows, are most user-friendly. Doorways/hallways: Minimum doorway 32” wide, hallways 42” wide. Easy grip controls: Lever handles on doors/faucets, rocker panel light switches, touch pad controls. Appliances: Front loading washer/dryer, elevated dishwasher, electric range with front controls, side-by-side refrigerator. Provide examples of scenarios where some of these items would be helpful. An easy and convenient universal design element is adding a ramped entryway to a home. Also, new motion-sensored controls allow homeowners to easily adjust temperatures, lights, or water in the home. When clients are choosing appliances/products for their home, they should have the long-term mentality woven into decisions. Before purchasing, clients should ask themselves: “Will this be easy to use or operate in 20 or 30 years?”

For more information visit: Don’t Wait! If you’re home is lacking in accessibility don’t wait to make universal design modifications. For more information visit: nari.org If you’re a NARI UDCP, you can discuss why and how it helps.

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