Universal Design: Simplified | Chapter 11
Universal design is ideal for new construction.Universal design is frequently discussed in the residential homebuilding market. While we do want more accessible homes to allow individuals to stay in their home longer as they age (giving individuals more independence for their daily activities, and allowing other people to visit the home without worry of barriers upon entry), it is important to note that universal design may not be the best option when modifying an existing home, especially if financial constraints exist.
Universal design may not be the best option when modifying an existing home.Remodeling projects need to meet the needs of homeowners based on abilities, and typically will not cater to a variety of different people. This is a controversial opinion, but our experience has been that homeowners are often reactive to circumstances that necessitate specific modifications to a home that wan’t designed to be universal to begin with. It’s not easy nor inexpensive to take a non-universally-designed home and modify it to include all the features necessary to truly create a universal environment. Compromises will likely have to be made.
Our opinion is that universal design is best suited for new construction, as it opens up many more options for ease of adaptation for specific needs. When you start with a blank slate, many more possibilities exist.
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