Universal Design Principles Showcased at International Show
A new national Universal Design Home model, planned for construction in the Columbus area, was the focal point of a panel discussion at the National Association of Home Builder’s (NAHB) Annual Convention and Exposition.
Orlando, FL (PRWEB) March 24, 2006
A new national Universal Design Home model, planned for construction in the Columbus area, was the focal point of a panel discussion at the National Association of Home Builder’s (NAHB) Annual Convention and Exposition. This convention is known as the International Builders’ Show and is one of the largest building projects showcases in the country, attracting more than 105,000 attendees.
The mastermind behind the project, Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph. D. of Rossetti Enterprises Inc., is a speaker, trainer, consultant and writer. As a former Ms. Wheelchair Ohio, she has been a vocal advocate for people with disabilities. She is using her experience as a wheelchair user and her seven years of research into Universal Design principles to help builders and product designers understand the importance of designing living spaces, and product lines, that benefit the widest possible range of people in the widest range of situations. Houses need to be designed so people can stay in them as long as possible, even when health conditions limit their mobility.
Here are some universal design features that these experts agree should be incorporated into floor plans and product specifications:
¨ Step-free entrance (a gradual, level grade; no conspicuous ramps)
¨ All doors without thresholds that are wide enough for a wheelchair or walker (36”)
¨ Wider hallways (46 “)
¨ Lever handles on doors and faucets
¨ Various heights of kitchen counters
¨ Full extension drawers and shelves in kitchen base cabinets
¨ Cooktop set into a counter with open knee space
¨ Side hinged microwave and oven doors at countertop height
¨ Side by side refrigerator
¨ Sliding casement or awning windows
¨ An elevator to the basement and/or second floor
¨ Lower rocker style light switches (36” above the floor)
¨ Higher electrical outlets (25” above the floor)
¨ Large bathroom with decorative grab bars
¨ Wood, non-slip tile and a dense weave, low pile (< ½”) carpet floors
¨ Large bathtubs with plenty of grab bars
¨ Curbless roll in showers with plenty of grab bars
¨ Slide bar for shower head
¨ Hand-held, flexible shower fixture
¨ 17-19” high toilet seat
¨ Adjustable hanging closet rods and shelves
¨ Front loading washer and dryer
¨ Open knee space under all sinks
Rossetti has found that some universal design features are appearing in appliances, however, universal design principles have not made it into all markets. She said, “I approached an outdoor barbecue grill during the conference and grabbed the hood handle with one hand. I was surprised to find that I could not budge it, due to the weight of the hood. Product manufacturers need to continue to bring universal design products to market.”
Rossetti knows from personal experience the difficulties people face when circumstances change due to either injury or simply aging. Rosemarie said, "I know this situation all too well. Seven years ago my spinal cord injury left me in a much compromised condition. I came home from the hospital in a wheelchair and realized just how unaccommodating my two-story home was to me. My life change was sudden; for others life changes more gradually. People develop chronic conditions like arthritis, get shorter as they age, and have hip and knee replacements."
Universal Design housing features are important as the Baby Boomer Generation begins to age. There are an estimated 78.2 million baby boomers. Active adults need to think ahead to prepare for future mobility limitations. Body parts do wear out, and 20 million Americans are limited in walking, reaching, or climbing steps. Four million need help walking inside their homes. Universal Design housing features will also benefit the estimated 54 million Americans living with a disability, and 1.8 million people use wheelchairs.
Rosemarie was joined by Mary Jo Peterson, CKD, CBD, CAPS of Mary Jo Peterson, Inc., Dottie Harper of Providence of Brookfield Homes and Derrick Layer of C. V. Perry.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Rosemarie Rossetti Ph. D.
1008 Eastchester Drive
Columbus, Ohio 43230-6230
1-614-471-6100
Www. UDLL. com
###
