Remodeling for accessibility in homes has become a notable change in recent years. Here are remodeling ideas to make your home more accessible. Whether the remodel is designed to accommodate disabled residents or less mobile elderly, a few adjustments can allow homeowners to stay in their much-loved homes. Or in some cases, a few accessibility modifications may be needed for a new home being purchased.
As people’s needs differ, so do their homes. Merely meeting the legal minimums for accessibility will not work for all individuals. Some additional modifications may be required to suit each person’s needs. As such, design build professionals are able to adapt their design upgrades to match individual circumstances.
The remodel should fit all the occupants needs while retaining the home’s aesthetic values and character.
Working with a Design Build Professional
When accessibility is an issue, you should first identify the elements that will need to be modified. Usually entryways, doorways, stairways, bathrooms, and kitchens represent the biggest challenges for individuals with disabilities.
A design build professional designer incorporates imaginative ideas with practical solutions. For example, if the bathroom area demands more floor space to accommodate a wheelchair, an experienced design build professional understands what is feasible within your budget. The solution may be to reposition some elements, open a closet, or incorporate some space from an adjoining room.
Most importantly, focus the design changes to accommodate the individual’s specific needs. For example, countertops, doorway widths, and bathroom accessories should match his or her height, chair width, and reach.
Remodeling Ideas to Make Your Home Accessible
Doorways to Accommodate Wheelchairs
Adult wheelchairs vary in width from wheel-to-wheel depending on the seat size and other structural factors. While the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates a minimum of a clear 32-inch opening for doorways, many wheelchairs require more width. Additionally, sometimes a sharp turn is necessary after clearing the doorway. Therefore a wider passage of up to 40-inches may be the best option.
Exterior Entrances
Homeowners hoping to maintain the aesthetics of the front entryway may choose to install an access ramp in the garage. Another option is along the side of the house.
For homes with a connected garage, adding the wheelchair ramp in the garage may be the best option for ease of access. While this may use up some parking space, a garage entry is often the most efficient and easiest option. Homeowners should aim to have two accessible, exterior entrances in case of emergency.
Kitchens and Bathrooms
In kitchens, it is normally easy to store dishes, cups, and glasses without having to reach far. When an individual uses a wheelchair, the process becomes more challenging. To be sure counter spaces and cupboards are easily accessible and usable, the individual’s height and reach should be assessed during the design phase.
Lowing cupboards are an option, however your design should also include clear space beneath the counters. This will allow individuals in wheelchairs to access items on or above the countertop.
Bathrooms require that wheelchairs are able to turn 360° easily to access sinks, toilets, and showers. Additionally, “curbless” showers allow easy access and are also aesthetically pleasing. Sinks, mirrors, vanities, and light switches should also be modified for accessibility. Where necessary, handrails should also be added.
Contact Master’s Design Build
A “one size fits all” never works in any remodeling project. Consulting a proven, professional design build company is your best option for remodeling ideas to make your home more accessible.
In Eastern Pennsylvania, the award-winning team at Master’s Design Build are uniquely qualified to help you discover and realize the best solutions for modifying your home to meet any accessibility demands. Additionally, they are approved builders for the Disability Building Grants for Veterans program.
With nearly two decades of experience helping homeowners remodel to meet their needs, the Master’s professionals can help you adapt your home to match all of your needs while maintaining the highest level of quality.
For more information, visit the Master’s Design Build website to view their many finished projects.
The Master’s Design Build experts will work with you from the initial idea and design all the way to a beautifully finished project.
