There are a variety of ways that residential architecture design can be used to promote accessibility, including:
1. Incorporating ramps and lifts: Ramps and lifts can be added to homes to make them accessible for people with mobility impairments. These can be placed at the entrance and inside the home to make it easier to move from room to room.
2. Wide doorways and hallways: Doors and hallways should be at least 36 inches wide to accommodate mobility equipment like wheelchairs and walkers. Additionally, doors should be designed to be operable with a closed fist or open hand, rather than the need for twisting.
3. Multi-level design: Living spaces within a home can be designed on only one level to increase accessibility. Alternatively, multi-level design can be achieved with the addition of elevators.
4. Slip-resistant surfaces: Using non-slip surfaces in bathrooms, kitchens, and other high-traffic areas can help prevent accidents.
5. Sensor lights and audio alerts: Incorporating sensor lights and audio alerts for doorbells and smoke detectors for those who are elderly or hard-of-hearing would promote accessibility.
6. Raised appliance platforms: The height of appliances in the kitchen can be raised to reduce the need for bending over.
7. Visual Contrast: Ensuring that areas such as stairways have visual contrast to make them easier to navigate.
8. Lever-style door handles: For those with limited hand mobility, lever-style door handles offer easier access than doorknobs.
9. Window Design: Implementing windows that are easy to open for people of all physical capabilities.
Overall, the above measures are just some ways that residential architecture design can increase accessibility in the home and promote universal design.
Publication date: