The Essentials Of Building an Accessible Home
Written by: Patrick Young at Able USA
Designing and building an accessible home is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning, thoughtful design, and meticulous execution. However, the benefits of living in a space that caters to your unique needs are immeasurable. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to create an accessible home, ensuring comfort, safety, and convenience for all residents.
Building a New Construction Home:
If you’re struggling to find a home on the market that meets you accessibility needs, building a new home could be an excellent solution. This approach allows you to work closely with the builder to ensure that every aspect of the design caters to your specific requirements, from wider doorways and hallways for wheelchair access to lower countertops and cabinets for ease of use.
It’s important to budget appropriately for such a project, taking into account not only the construction costs but also the price of land, permits, and potential upgrades or modifications. By building a new home, you can create a space that is not only functional and accessible but also truly yours.
Planning for Accessible Outdoor Spaces:
The first step towards building an accessible home involves planning for outdoor spaces that are easy to navigate. This can include installing ramps instead of stairs, creating wide pathways, and ensuring good lighting at night.
Additionally, it’s crucial to consider the landscape’s layout and features, such as gardens, patios, and driveways, to ensure they are accessible and safe for everyone.
Importance of Property Surveying:
Before beginning construction, it’s vital to engage a professional property surveyor to take precise land measurements. They will determine the exact boundaries of your property and potential restrictions that could impact your building plans. A property survey also helps to avoid future disputes with neighbors and legal complications.
Adjustable Countertops and Cabinetry:
In the interior of your home, adjustable countertops and cabinetry can significantly enhance accessibility. These features allow individuals of different heights and mobility levels to use the kitchen comfortably. With adjustable features, you can modify the height according to your needs, making tasks like cooking and cleaning less strenuous.
Image Description: A man in a wheelchair prepares food in an accessible kitchen
Door Handles and Faucets with Levers:
Door handles and faucets designed with a lever are crucial elements for homes that prioritize accessibility. This design, which deviates from conventional knobs, simplifies operation, making it less challenging for those who may have limited hand strength or dexterity.
In the same vein, faucets of the lever-style variety can be conveniently activated or deactivated with a gentle push, thus minimizing stress on the wrists and hands. This not only enhances ease of use but also promotes independent living for individuals with varying physical capabilities.
Designing a Bathroom for Accessibility:
When you are outlining the blueprint, one area that should be given paramount consideration is the bathroom. It’s crucial to design this space with accessibility in mind, incorporating elements like a roll-in shower, grab bars, and a raised toilet seat. These are not merely comfort-enhancing features, but also vital safety measures.
Image Description: Two showers with grab bars, roll in flooring and bench seats offer accessible accomidations.
Wider Hallways and Doorways:
Wide doorways and hallways are another key aspect of accessible home design. They allow easy movement for people using wheelchairs or walkers. This ensures ample space for turning and maneuvering mobility devices.
Image Description: A wide entry way leads into the rest of the home through a wide doorway.
A Home Office:
A home office can be a vital tool for professionals with disabilities, providing a comfortable and accessible environment tailored to their specific needs. It eliminates the need for commuting, which can be challenging for some individuals, and allows for a flexible work schedule. Moreover, a home office offers the opportunity to set up equipment and furniture that accommodate the user’s requirements, enhancing productivity and reducing physical strain.
Additionally, maintaining a home office for your business has financial benefits as well; it enables you to deduct certain business expenses from your taxes. This includes a proportion of your home’s costs, such as mortgage interest, insurance, utilities, and repairs, according to the IRS guidelines. Thus, a home office can contribute significantly to both the professional and financial wellbeing of individuals with disabilities.
Smart Home Products:
Incorporating smart home products can enhance accessibility significantly. Features like voice-controlled lights, automated blinds, and smart thermostats can make daily tasks easier and more convenient. Before purchasing, it’s advisable to consult online resources for in-depth product reviews to ensure you choose the best options for your needs.
Building an accessible home involves careful planning and consideration of various factors, from working closely with the builder to creating a home office and adding smart home features. By following these steps, you can create a comfortable and accessible living environment that caters to everyone’s needs. Remember, the goal is not just to build a house but to create a home where you can live independently and comfortably.
