• Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • Gplus
  • Home
    • Get Started
    • Our Story
    • FAQ
    • Meet the Team
      • Meet Travis
      • Meet Stacey
      • Meet Jeneane
      • Meet Jamie
      • Meet Taylor
      • Meet Heather
    • Testimonials
    • Publications and Awards
  • Cabinets
    • Cabinet Options
      • Walker Woodworking
      • Dura Supreme
      • Cabinets by Cabico
      • Metropolitan Woodworks Cabinets
      • Fabuwood Cabinets
      • James Martin
    • Browse by Room
    • Cabinet Accessories
      • Decorative & Functional Components
      • Decorative Cabinet Hardware
  • Inside the Showroom
    • Award Winning Showroom
    • Interior Designer
    • Randy McNeilly
    • Resources & Partners
      • Cabinetry
      • Countertops
      • Decorative Cabinet Hardware
      • Decorative & Storage Components
      • Kitchen and Bath
      • The Galley Dealer
      • Graber
      • Grouthouse Solid Wood Surfaces
      • Furniture and Home
      • Karran Sinks
      • Kessick Custom Wine Cellars
      • Lighting Resources
      • Nora Fleming
      • Spatial Solutions
      • Stikwood
      • Tile Resources
      • Vintage Vinyl
  • Our Process
    • 7 Step Process
    • Our Services
      • Kitchen and Bath Design
      • Millwork
      • Install FAQ
      • Interior Designer
  • Contact Us
    • Service Areas
  • Blog
  • Where to Start
  • Happenings
    • May Events
    • June Events
    • Event Gallery
    • Grand Opening Gala
    • Community
980-404-9600
Greenbrook Design Center
  • Home
    • Get Started
    • Our Story
    • FAQ
    • Meet the Team
      • Meet Travis
      • Meet Stacey
      • Meet Jeneane
      • Meet Jamie
      • Meet Taylor
      • Meet Heather
    • Testimonials
    • Publications and Awards
  • Cabinets
    • Cabinet Options
      • Walker Woodworking
      • Dura Supreme
      • Cabinets by Cabico
      • Metropolitan Woodworks Cabinets
      • Fabuwood Cabinets
      • James Martin
    • Browse by Room
    • Cabinet Accessories
      • Decorative & Functional Components
      • Decorative Cabinet Hardware
  • Inside the Showroom
    • Award Winning Showroom
    • Interior Designer
    • Randy McNeilly
    • Resources & Partners
      • Cabinetry
      • Countertops
      • Decorative Cabinet Hardware
      • Decorative & Storage Components
      • Kitchen and Bath
      • The Galley Dealer
      • Graber
      • Grouthouse Solid Wood Surfaces
      • Furniture and Home
      • Karran Sinks
      • Kessick Custom Wine Cellars
      • Lighting Resources
      • Nora Fleming
      • Spatial Solutions
      • Stikwood
      • Tile Resources
      • Vintage Vinyl
  • Our Process
    • 7 Step Process
    • Our Services
      • Kitchen and Bath Design
      • Millwork
      • Install FAQ
      • Interior Designer
  • Contact Us
    • Service Areas
  • Blog
  • Where to Start
  • Happenings
    • May Events
    • June Events
    • Event Gallery
    • Grand Opening Gala
    • Community
  • Search
  • Menu

What is Accessible and Universal Design?

Guest post by Jenny Pippin of Pippin Home Designs

All photos supplied by Pippin Home Designs

Accessible and Universal Homes are sweeping the home design industry!  People are catching on to the IMMENSE VALUE of a home designed to make life easier.  With all the challenges that life brings, the way you live in your home doesn’t have to be one.    The techniques of Accessible and Universal Design can create greater ease and comfort right into your daily life before potential challenges become an issue.

Jenny Pippin of Pippin Home Designs https://www.pippinhomedesigns.com learned the value of these remarkable forms of design firsthand while beginning her career in the 80’s.  In a nearly fatal car accident, Jenny’s back was broken, and she required a full body cast for four months.  She quickly learned her home did not accommodate a person with physical disabilities.  Her bedroom required passage through a narrow hallway with a sharp 90-degree turn, which prevented a stretcher from gaining access to her bed.  She was forced to rent a hospital bed and place it in the living room.  Once she healed from the body cast, she found her kitchen cabinets were too high to reach without pain, bending over to unload the dishwasher was a struggle, and her bathroom was too difficult to navigate while wearing a back brace.

This experience inspired her to incorporate accessibility into each of her home designs, finding creative and beautiful solutions to potential future challenges and inevitable life changes.

Physical abilities can shift abruptly, as in the case of Jenny’s accident, but they also shift gradually in the continuous process of aging.

“Your life is ever changing, and your needs will shift,” Jenny reminds.  “Thoughtful planning ahead ensures your home will support your life now and transition gracefully as your physical needs change.”

Things to consider for your home when planning for the future:

  • Are you planning to retire and age in place in your home?
  • Will your home still function for you when you retire?
  • What if you suddenly require a wheelchair, crutches, walker, or body cast?
  • What if one of your loved ones’ experiences any of these challenges?
  • Will they be able to visit you?

What is Accessible Design?

Accessibility in reference to home design is a term coined in 1990 with the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  The intention of Accessible Design is to meet the functional limitations of people with disabilities and other physical challenges, be they short term or permanent.

Statistics on disabled:

Data collected in 2018 by the CDC showed that 61 million adults in the United States live with some form of disability.  That’s 26% of the population or 1 in 4 adults.  Another statistic shows that 2.8 million kids age 5-15 also have a disability.  What these numbers show is the likelihood that we are all living with the need to accommodate someone with limitations in life.

What is Universal Design?

Universal Design is a broader concept using techniques that take into consideration EVERY possible challenge and limitation in life.  A Universal Home is designed with spaces and products that are easily usable by all people; healthy and ill, able bodied and physically challenged, young and old, tall and short, male, female, and everything in between.

Universal Design is inclusive design!

Regardless of individual abilities or circumstances, Universal Design empowers homeowners and their visitors to carry out routine household activities with ease and without the need for adaptation.

Concepts of Accessible and Universal Design:

Equitable Use:

These homes consider people with diverse abilities. They are designed to be accessible, appealing, and accommodating of all people at all ages.

Intuitive Appliances:

Simple and intuitive appliances include right- and left-handed usability, easy to use fixtures, low physical effort required for operation, minimized hazards, appropriate space for approach and use, and located at appropriate heights for the intended users.

Solutions to Aging:

Design solutions to many common aging challenges can extend your quality of life far into the future.

Visitability:

Design plays a big role in how comfortable others feel in your home.  Homeowners may not initially believe their home needs to be accessible, however visiting family and friends with additional needs should be considered.

Beauty and Function Unite

A functional home is a beautiful home.  Skilled Residential Design Specialists and Interior Designers can create stunningly gorgeous accessible homes that enhance aesthetics with intelligent design.

There are countless creative aspects to Accessible and Universal Design.  The following are a few of the most popular:

Modified Appliances

Simple modifications to appliances can turn a mediocre kitchen into a simplicity showpiece.  Cooktops with front mounted controls eliminate the need to reach over a hot burner to adjust the heat.  Raised dishwashers, washers, or dryers minimize the need to bend over.  Refrigerators, freezers, and dishwashers with drawers as opposed to traditional doors provide ease in accessing the items inside.

Modified Cabinets

Drawers as opposed to traditional cabinets eliminate the need to bend down and dig through to find items.  Touch latch cabinets are easy to open without the need for grasping.

Kitchen Countertop Adjustments

Modifications to countertop heights making them slightly taller or lower to accommodate the height of inhabitants is a simple adjustment that greatly enhances the usability of a kitchen.  A seated prep work area in the kitchen can provide comfort for anyone who doesn’t want to be on their feet for long periods of time while cooking.  Rounded corners and countertops reduce the incidents of bumps and bruises.

Bathroom Shower Modifications

Curbless showers eliminate the need to step over a threshold making wheelchair or walker accessibility simple and beautiful.  Single shower handle valves are easy to turn on and adjust temperature.  Shower and bathtub valves can be intentionally designed at heights appropriate for the specific occupants of the home.

Bathroom Sink Modifications

A roll under sink that can be accented with cabinet doors is a beautiful and functional option for making a bathroom wheelchair accessible.  Raised vanities reduce the amount of bending necessary to use the sink.  Wall mounted vanities open up more floor space and can also be more wheelchair friendly.

Cost of Accessibility

Accessible and Universal homes are NOT necessarily more expensive than standard homes, they’re just smarter!  Many elements are simply about placement or product selection.  In fact, incorporating these forms of intelligent design increases the value of your home and offers long term cost savings.

Incorporating elements of ease into the plans for your home before it’s built is the best option for long term comfort and usability.  However, if you’re renovating your current home into your forever home, working with a skilled and forward-thinking designer can help you make wise decisions for best ways to plan ease into your long-term homelife.

Share this entry
  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on Twitter
  • Share on Google+
  • Share on Pinterest
  • Share on Linkedin
  • Share on Reddit
  • Share by Mail

0 replies

Leave a Reply

Want to join the discussion?
Feel free to contribute!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Did you enjoy this post?

If so, we invite you to sign up for our monthly newsletter for new post updates and featured projects from our designers.

Did I mention we only send these once a month?

Newsletter Sign-Up

Instagram

greenbrookdesign

Now offering virtual design meetings
Email 🖥 jan@greenbrookdesign.com for more info
Follow👉 @walkerwoodworking

Greenbrook Design
A space free from clutter is a space where you can A space free from clutter is a space where you can breathe easy so why not include some storage solutions in your renovation?
#greenbrookdesign
#storagesolutions
#organizedhome
#kitchenorganization
#cabinetdesign
#kitchengoals
#cltdesign
#designtrend
#pulloutdrawers
#webelieveinhome
#personalizeyourhome
Look at all the beautiful contrast combinations in Look at all the beautiful contrast combinations in this install. From the soft gray backsplash to the dark floors, these white frameless cabinets are perfect.  Once finished this kitchen will welcome any pop of color as a surprise element.  What do you think about the white grout lines? 
#greenbrookdesign
#installday
#kitchenbacksplash
#contrastingcolors
#kitchencountertops
#charlottedesign
#kitchenupgrade
#walkerwoodworking
#customcabinets
#whitekitchendesign
#allwhitekitchen
#grayandwhite
#darkflooring
#detailsmatter
There are many elements that make up a design visi There are many elements that make up a design vision which is why we offer countertops, flooring, backsplash, lighting, and more. What is one thing you wish you could change in your home?
#greenbrookdesign
#designservices
#kitchenbacksplash
#countertops
#inspiredliving
#finditstyleit
#decorativelighting
#lightinginspiration 
#naturalstone 
#whitekitchenideas 
#beautifulcabinets 
#kitchenrenovation
Our goal with every project we create is that it i Our goal with every project we create is that it is designed to perform beautifully. Our experienced design team always makes sure to listen to the needs of our clients so that the final result is a new area they can enjoy for years to come.
#greenbrookdesign
#customersatisfaction
#designexperience
#kitchendesigner
#bathroomdesigner
#charlotteinteriordesign
#cltdesign
#designmeeting
#mondaymotivation
#kitchengoals
#customerjourney
Need a last minute gift for Mother's Day? We have Need a last minute gift for Mother's Day? We have several beautiful and unique options available here at the showroom and don't forget to visit the other amazing shops located in Uptown Shelby today!

 Not sure what to get? We can print gift certificates so Mom can get exactly what she likes! 
Call 980-404-9600 to have yours ready and pay over the phone! 
#greenbrookdesign 
#mothersdaygifts 
#mudpiegifts 
#giftideasforher 
#makeherfeelspecial 
#showroomdesign 
#decordetails 
#lastminutegift 
#uptownshelbync
Did you know that Walker Woodworking custom built Did you know that Walker Woodworking custom built our front doors? We love how they turned out and continue to look amazing after four years!
#greenbrookdesign
#walkerwoodworking
#custommadedoors
#uptownshelby
#showroomdoors
#historicbuilding
#customwoodwork
A dining room table is more than just a place to e A dining room table is more than just a place to eat, it is where we share the events of our day and memories are made. What do you love most about your table?
#greenbrookdesign
#diningroomtable
#showroomcenter
#personalizeyourhome
#finditstyleit
#diningroomtableideas
#detailsmatter
#liveedgetable
#tablesettingideas
#farmhousestyle
#charlotteinteriordesign
Is your bathroom in need of an update? Check out t Is your bathroom in need of an update? Check out these projects. Which is your favorite?
#greenbrookdesign 
#dreambathroom 
#bathroomdesign 
#whitebathroom 
#bathroomrenovation 
#bathroominspiration 
#spalikebath
Your Input is the Key Ingredient to a fabulous kit Your Input is the Key Ingredient to a fabulous kitchen design! 

We want to get to know you and what your needs are so we can design for YOU!

This client wanted to be sure and have easily accesible spices while cooking! 

Is it "thyme" to re-do your kitchen?
#greenbrookdesign 
#spicerack 
#creativestorage 
#storagesolutions 
#twotonedkitchen 
#kitchendesigner 
#getorganized 
#reclaimedwoodprojects 
#whitekitchenlove 
#countertops 
#personalizeyourspace
Any light fixture can steal the show but it takes Any light fixture can steal the show but it takes a special fixture to make sure your focus remains where it needs to be. If you are looking for a light that will provide the necessary light without stealing the show, we have what you need!
#greenbrookdesign
#modernlighting
#lightingsolutions
#floorlamps
#lightinginspiration
#decorativelighting
#lightingideas
#designlighting
#makehomeyours 
#cltdesign 
#ashevilleinteriordesign 
#livingroomdécor
Room for everyone, that was one of the main factor Room for everyone, that was one of the main factors involved in desiging this unique t-shaped island for this client. They wanted an island that allowed their family and friends to gather together, to connect with ease, and at any time. We love how it turned out, don't you?
#greenbrookdesign
#builtwithconnection
#dreamkitchen
#hellocabico
#kitchenextension
#builtforfamily
#kitchenisland
#kitchensofinsta
#kitchentable
#diningroomtable
#aplaceatthetable
#kitcheninspiration
While we don't like talking about trash, we do lov While we don't like talking about trash, we do love talking about these trash can pull out drawers! They make it so easy to conventiently throw out the garbage when cooking or cleaning up the kitchen but can be neatly tucked away from guests eyes. Would you want one in your kitchen?
#greenbrookdesign
#storagesolutions
#getorganized
#kitchenideas
#kitchenstorageideas
#letsgetorganized
#charlotteinteriordesigner
#cltdesign
#customhomefeatures
#beautifulcabinets
#benjaminmoore
#kitchendesigner
#kitchendesignideas
#trashcandrawers
Does your bathroom feel dated and boring? It might Does your bathroom feel dated and boring? It might be time for an update. What is the first thing you would change about your bathroom?
#greenbrookdesign
#bathroomrenovation
#newbathroom
#bathroomvanities
#designinspiration
#neutraldecor
#webelieveinhome
#bathroominspiration
#bathroomsofinsta
#bathroomtiles
Don't be afraid to be bold in your choices because Don't be afraid to be bold in your choices because you never know just how amazing the results can be like this clients kitchen. They used Benjamin Moore Pacific Ocean for their cabinets and we loved it!
#greenbrookdesign
#boldcolorchoices
#dreamkitchen
#benjaminmoore
#contemporarykitchen
#bluekitchens
#whitekitchencabinets
#contrastingcolors
#charlottedesign 
#historichomerenovation 
#retrointeriordesign 
#designtrends 
#bronzehardware
Home is the one place we should enjoy returning to Home is the one place we should enjoy returning to everyday. What is one thing you love about your home?
#greenbrookdesign
#lovemyhome
#favoritemomentsathome
#homeisthebest
#makehomeyours
#styleitfindit
#personalizeyourspace
#lakenormaninteriordesign
#charlottenc
#queencity 
#rustichomestyle 
#rustichomedesign 
#livingspaces 
#historichomeremodel
Our goal is to provide service with a personal tou Our goal is to provide service with a personal touch that leads to a sophisticated design. What are you wishing for?
Project collaboration with Leah Heinsius
#greenbrookdesign
#personalizeddesign
#kitchenandbathdesign
#lakenormandesigner
#cltinteriordesign
#maketimefordesign 
#charlottedesign 
#projectcollaboration 
#teamworkdreamwork 
#kitchensofinsta
The location, the design style, the feeling you ge The location, the design style, the feeling you get as you walk inside your home. These are the things that matter in your home because it is meant to be a reflection of where you are, where you have been, and how you want to live. That is the purpose of design, it is meant to tell your story. How can we help you tell yours?
#greenbrookdesign
#tellyourstory
#designingahome
#charlotteinteriordesign
#makehomeyours
#clthomes
#housegoals
#homebeautiful 
#charlottedesign 
#glassfrontcabinet 
#floatingshelves 
#bluekitchens
Is your install complete but the walls still feel Is your install complete but the walls still feel empty? Then you need an art piece that not only will fill a void but speak to your soul. We have many beautiful options throughout our showroom that are ready to inspire you.
#greenbrookdesign
#artwork
#cltinteriordesign
#itsinthedetails
#emptywalls
#showroomdecor
#thedelightofdecor
#inspiredliving
#designanddecoration
#instahomedecor
#uptownshelby
#finditstyleit
#whatstrending
#designsolutions
#artandinteriors
We want to wish our very own @janblanton4 a very h We want to wish our very own @janblanton4 a very happy birthday. If you have called to schedule an appointment or visited the showroom then you have had the opportunityto meet Jan! Whether she is unpacking new inventory or greeting clients,  we would not be what we are without her and are grateful to have such an amazing person on our team. Join us in wishing her a fabulous birthday!
#greenbrookdesign 
#happybirthdaytoyou
Glare is a big problem when trying to work on your Glare is a big problem when trying to work on your computer. Good window treatments can provide the protection you need so you can stay focused on the task at hand. Graber blinds have all the solutions you need for your work from home station.
#greenbrookdesign
#graberblinds
#windowtreatments
#customdrapery
#charlotteinteriordesign
#windowstyle
#curtaindesign
#windowcoverings 
#charlottedesign 
#workingfromhome
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Visit Us in Uptown Shelby

Showroom Hours

  • Monday 9 to 5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 to 5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 to 5 pm
  • Thursday 9 to 5 pm
  • Friday 10 to 4 pm (First Friday’s extended hours 5 to 7 pm)
  • Saturday 10 to 2 pm

Make an appointment today for a design meeting!

112-1 N. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC
980-404-9600

Upcoming Events

Make plans to join us and bring a friend.

 

GBD Logo

Visit Us in Historic Shelby

112 N. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC
980-404-9600

Exclusive Dealer for

Walker Woodworking

 

Showroom

Call & schedule a showroom tour!
980-404-9600

Newsletter Signup

Greenbrook Design - powered by Enfold WordPress Theme
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • Gplus
What you need to know when buying a rug Using Indoor and Outdoor Plants in Design
Scroll to top