Steps in planning a universally designed kitchen

Planning a universally designed kitchen requires special consideration of every aspect of the space: countertops, cabinets, appliances, etc.

Countertops and Cabinets

There are many manufacturers of cabinets and accessories for kitchen accessibility. For example, one has a modular system of base cabinet segments, countertops, and wall cabinets mounted on vertical tracks for manual or motorized adjustability. Another manufactures hardware that (via remote control or manual rank) adjusts the height of wall cabinets and/or countertops. They also distribute a device that provides access to wall-cabinet shelves by mounting them on a gliding unit that pulls down. Some manufacture Lazy-Susans, full-extension slides for drawers and shelves, container lids that open, or shelves that slide out when the cabinet door is opened, and baskets mounted on the back of cabinet doors. One manufacturer produces a dumbwaiter with a 75-pound capacity. Another manufactures cabinet that allows bifold base-cabinet doors to open fully, providing maximum use of clear knee space for seated users, and a step stool that conveniently folds away into the toe kick under the base cabinet.

Some manufacturers make countertops in contrasting colors and surface textures to accommodate users who are visually impaired. Countertops with raised edges to prevent spills can be included. Outlets and switches should be mounted at easily accessible locations. Accessible hardware such as D-pulls or extended-wire pulls on cabinet doors may be a good choice. Food pantries which are accessed on one side from the kitchen and on the other from the garage can be filled directly from the car after a shopping trip. Cabinet manufacturers make a host of pullout accessories, including trays/cutting boards, work surfaces, vegetable bins, ironing boards, and wastebaskets.

Countertops, for example, must be designed within easy reach of the user. Therefore, countertop height must be carefully considered.

A standard countertop is 36 inches high, but this height is often uncomfortable for children or adults who are shorter or taller than average or for those who prefer to work while seated. For a universally designed kitchen, NKBA recommends including some countertops that are 28 inches to 32 inches high. This height is appropriate for seated or shorter users and for use as a chopping or baking center. For taller users, countertops that are 42 inches to 45 inches high are suitable. This height will work well as a snack bar also. The space also should include some countertops at 36 inches high for general use by standing users.

NKBA also offers the following suggestions for cabinets:

• Lowering wall cabinets via motorized or mechanical system
• Interior storage systems, like divider drawers, roll-out shelves and try dividers, to provide clear accessibility and easy retrieval of items
• Open shelves for quick detection of items and to eliminate the hazard of open doors
• Drawers, instead of doors, to eliminate the need to get around the open door
• Lever handles, as opposed to knobs, to allow easier opening of doors

Appliances

As more and more manufacturers become aware of universal design, more appliance options become available. This allows universally designed appliances to be incorporated into the space without sacrificing aesthetics.

Consider the following items when planning a universal kitchen:

• Side-by-side refrigerators or bottom freezer models provide ideal access for all users – young and old
• Separate cooktop and oven accommodate height differences
• Controls on appliances placed at the front allow easy access
• Easy-to-read numbers and touch-pad controls, rather than knobs, are easier to see and use
• Microwave placement should be within reach and sight of the individuals who will use it

By including these items in the kitchen and considering carefully their placement in the design, you ensure that the space can be used by everyone, regardless of their abilities or stage of life.

Steps in planning a universally designed bathroom

Planning a universally designed bath requires special consideration for every aspect of the space. To insure accessibility for all users no matter their age or ability:

• Consider adaptations that can make bathrooms easier to use for individuals with limited mobility, including raised toilet seats, grab bars in the bath and shower, a shower with an integral bench.
• If you have seniors or family members with disabilities, barrier-free bathtubs, roll-in showers with fold-down seats, and wall-hung lavatories take on added importance.
• A shower with no sill or other obstruction to step over allows access to a wheelchair user.
• Place light switches and ventilation controls at a height that children or a person in a wheelchair can reach.
• Towel bars and robe hooks should be within arm’s reach of the bathtub or shower.
• A handheld personal shower in the bath is convenient for washing hair while seated.
• A wall-hung lavatory allows access for a person in a wheelchair.
• Lever or wristblade handle faucets are easy to operate, even for children and individuals with physical limitations.
• Showers should be fitted with pressure-balancing valves. Because of the added level of safety pressure-balancing valves provide, they are now required in most new home construction.
• Slip-resistant floor coverings and bath and shower basins mean added safety.
• Steps should not be planned around the bath or shower area.
• A drop-in bath should be installed at a height that is comfortable and safe to enter and exit.
• A wheelchair-height transfer seat at the head of the bathtub promotes easy access and provides a bathing option for individuals who may not have the strength to lower themselves into the bathtub.
• Replace toggle switches with large rocker plates.
• For individuals with limited eyesight, mount the room light switch on the outside of the entrance door and use a glowing switch.
• Use shallow, open shelving rather than deep, enclosed cabinets.
• Use lever or C-shaped handles as opposed to small knobs on vanities and storage drawers to allow for easier opening.
• To provide comfort and ease of use for individuals of vary heights, the height of the counter can be positioned between 25.5″ and 42″ above the floor.