Lots of detail goes into a universally-designed kitchen. These are the features that provide easy access and use for everyone.
| 9.1 | Kitchen and food storage areas accessible without steps. | Why? |
| 9.2 | Doorway widths no less than 32 inches -or- if open floor plan, no less than 32 inches of passable width at narrow-most point. | Why? |
| Counters | ||
| 9.3 | Counter spaces at various heights. | Why? |
| 9.4 | Heat-resistant counter surface(s). | Why? |
| 9.5 | Clearance underneath counter for seated access (can include closed cabinetry with flipper doors). | Why? |
| Storage | ||
| 9.6 | More than 50% of shelving between 18 and 48 inches from the floor. | Why? |
| 9.7 | Pull-down shelving for any storage over 60 inches from the floor. | Why? |
| 9.8 | Pull-out shelving or drawers where helpful. | Why? |
| 9.9 | Cabinet hardware usable one-handed & without the need for grip strength. | Why? |
| Layout | ||
| 9.10 | At least 48 inches of floor space in front of any appliance and counter. | Why? |
| 9.11 | 60-inch turning radius in any work area. | Why? |
| 9.12 | Kitchen adjacent to eating area. | Why? |
| 9.13 | Some power outlets installed near front of counters. | Why? |
| Sink | ||
| 9.14 | Lever, push-button, or electronic faucet controls. | Why? |
| 9.15 | Pull-out spray faucet -or- faucet with side spray. | Why? |
| 9.16 | Faucet mounted at side of sink (vs. the rear). | Why? |
| 9.17 | Clearance underneath sink for seated access (can include closed cabinetry with flipper doors). | Why? |
| 9.18 | Garbage disposal switch mounted near front of counter. | Why? |
| 9.19 | Offset rear drain. | Why? |
| 9.20 | Insulated and/or covered plumbing. | Why? |
| Cooktops & Ovens | ||
| 9.21 | Induction cooktop with front or side-mount controls. | Why? |
| 9.22 | Cooktop installed in-counter with clearance underneath for seated access (can include closed cabinetry with flipper doors). | Why? |
| 9.23 | Vent/hood controls installed near front of counter. | Why? |
| 9.24 | Wall oven with side-swing door, bottom shelf between 36 and 42 inches from floor. | Why? |
| 9.25 | Microwave on counter -or- in-wall or cabinet, inside surface between 36 and 42 inches from floor. | Why? |
| Refrigerator | ||
| 9.26 | Refrigerator and freezer: drawers and/or adjustable, pull-out shelving. | Why? |
| Dishwasher | ||
| 9.27 | Standard dishwasher, raised installation. -and/or- | Why? |
| 9.28 | Drawer dishwasher, installed just below counter. | Why? |
| Flooring | ||
| 9.29 | Slip-resistant and durable flooring. | Why? |
| 9.30 | Color and texture contrast used for transitions between spaces. | Why? |
| Lighting | ||
| 9.31 | Task lighting over each workspace. | Why? |
| 9.32 | Ambient lighting over all eating areas. | Why? |