What is Universal Design? It’s invisible elements integrated into the features of the design that has a market appeal and meets needs for people of all abilities.
Universal Design is a “Life Style in Place” or an “Aging in Place” home. It will meet the needs for all ages. You can live in this home as a young family just starting out and live there with parents returning home and you can live there to the end.
Here at Homes by Benny Clark we incorporate many aspects of Universal Design and Aging in Place into each and every home we build. We work with each of our clients to determine the current needs and what their needs may be in the future. We want to build your dream home to accommodate whatever life may throw at you.
There are many articles and books written on Universal Design and Aging in Place so I have listed several items that we try to include in the design and build processes of a home.
- Interior Circulation, how the home flows from room to room
- Wide doors everywhere
- Open plan minimizing hallways and doorway and maximizing sight lines
- Slip resistant floors …porcelain tile in all styles and textures
- Lots of Drawers in kitchens and bath vanities for lower cabinets
- Bathrooms that is accessible for everyone
- Showers that are step free
- Total Step free home on the first floor
- No thresholds at doors entering the home
- Handheld shower heads, decorative grab bars, cabinets pulls (no knobs)
- If a second floor is needed, widened staircase to allow for a future lift chair
- Sink bases and cook-tops with knee space below
- Rocker panel light switches
- Easy access to storm/safe rooms
Colors play a very important part in the Universal Design home. So we work closely with our clients to achieve a balance and symmetry within the home.
This is just a small portion of the thought process that goes into each home we build. As a builder, we do not have to do all of these we can help our clients pick and choose what they want. Our job is to make you think about tomorrow! Each home should and always is a reflection of the homeowner we just assist you in making your dream home a reality.