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158 Kitchen Design and Planning

CHAPTER 6

versa I

Universal makes kitchen and great~room

efficient, accessible, and comfortable for all, without

sacrificing style.

T he beauty of universal design is its intent to make housing usable

by everyone through all of life's stages and changes. If you're in

the early planning stages of building or renovating a house,

incorporating universal design is a wise long-term investment.

In most cases you won't need to make significant changes whatever the

circumstances: a family member becoming permanently or temporarily

disabled, an elderly parent in the home, a young child or a shorter-than-

average adult, or guests with disabilities. Free of obstacles, your home will be

enjoyable for all. And if you're planning to live there for many years, universal

design features will accommodate your own needs in the future, whether you

sprain a wrist, develop stiff joints, or need assistance to move about.

CHAPTER 6 CONTENTS

SmartDesignfor Everyone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

Food-PrepConvenience.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

EfficientStorage.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

CookingCenter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164

People-FriendlyCleanupCenter. . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

left Craftsman style beautifully translates to the open, friendly

interior of this convenient 21st-century kitchen and great-room.

Kitchen Design and Planning 159

Smart Design forEveryoneUniversal design is now mainstream because of growing

awareness and changes in population demographics.

As baby boomers enter their 50s and 60s, many will be

building or remodeling homes for when they retire.

Universal design will serve them well in preparing

a comfortable, safe environment for their later years.

Successful implementation of universal design does not

produce a sterile, institutional look. Instead it results ina functional and attractive setting where your family and

friends can savor their surroundings, drawn by a pleasing

combination of colors, textures, and surfaces that is

heightened by engaging finishing touches.

Universal design can be affordable. The 1,300-square-

foot house highlighted in this chapter cost $130,000 to

build with all materials as stock. Universal design features

and products are almost undetectable and increase

expenses no more than 3 percent if implemented as part

of the original design.With particular attention to placement, shape, and size,

universal design features make the house easier for all

family members and visitors, regardless of physical ability.

For instance, if you put light switches and electrical outlets

between 44 and 48 inches from the floor, anyone who has

trouble bending over or reaching up will not struggle to

plug in an appliance or turn on a light.The shape of something as simple as a doorknob

affects how easily someone can enter and leave a room.

Comparably priced lever-style door handles are easier to

turn than knobs and are available in a range of styles and

ifinishes. Anyone experiencing arthritis will appreciate the

action, which is easy on the wrist.

Making halls a little wider and installing doors at least

32 inches wide is convenient for everyone. Wider doorwaysare a must for wheelchair users or those who use walkers,

but spacious doorways also make movement throughoutthe home easier. For instance, a 36-inch-wide door

simplifies tasks such as moving furniture in or out of thehouse or between rooms and lessens the likelihood of

damaging walls and doorjambs.An entrance based on universal design eliminates steps,

simplifying coming and going, especially if you're carrying

in groceries, rolling a suitcase, pushing a baby stroller, or

guiding a wheelchair. When bad weather causes wet or icyconditions, more secure footing lessens the worry about

slipping on the walkway.To ensure safety and usability for anyone entering or

leaving the house, follow these guidelines:

II1II Plan for at least one level entrance with no steps intoyour home, eliminating raised sills on the exterior door.

II1II Ensurea flush threshold, with a maximum ofVz-inch rise.

II1II Use a beveled strip at the bottom door track of slidingglass doors to prevent tripping.

II1II Install a sidelightby the entrance door or dual peepholes with one 42 to 48 inches high.

II1II Locate addressnumbersso they are visiblefromthe street.

~

III Make sure walkways have a gentle slope of no

more than 5 percent.III Provide an accessible route with no steps

from parking or vehicle drop-off.

III Light the exterior of the entry door with

motion sensor lights.

III Cover the entryway for protection from

weather, and provide a safe place to wait.

III Allow a space of at least 18 inches on thelatch side of the door.

III Push-button combination locks are easier to

use than keys.III Exterior doors should be at least 36 inches

wide and interior doors 32 inches.

III Ensure that no more than 5 pounds of force is

needed to open doors.

III Replace standard hinges with swing-free

hinges to increase the door opening.

III Have a bench or package shelf available

beside the door to hold items you may bringin from the car.

III Make circulation paths at least 3 feet wide.

III Consider using pocket doors for the interior

when hall and room space is limited.III Fit interior doorways with lever-style

door handles.

III Move all objects and furniture that can

obstruct passages.

III Install handrails at exterior steps for safer

travel up and down.

The seven basic principles of universal design:

III Equitable Use: Making the design useful and marketable

to people with diverse abilities.

III Flexibility in Use: Accommodating the many differences in

individual preferences and abilities.

III Simple and Intuitive Use: Making the design easy to

understand, regardless of the user's experience, knowledge,

language skills, or current concentration level.

III Perceptible Information: Communicating information

effectively to the user, regardless of the ambient conditions

or the user's sensory abilities.

III Tolerance for Error: Minimizing hazards and adverse

consequences of accidental or unintended actions.

III Low Physical Effort: Making the design easy and

comfortable with minimum fatigue.

III Size and Space for Approach and Use: Providing

appropriate size and space for approach, reach,

manipulation, and use, regardless of user's body size,

posture, or mobility.


Food-Prep ConvenienceThe L-shape kitchen's work triangle minimizes unnecessary

trips and reduces fatigue. Open space makes fixtures,

appliances, and workstations easy to reach and use by most

cooks. The sink and other work spaces are located within

universal reach range, which means the cook, if seated,does not have to lean and strain to turn on the faucet or

pick up a heavy item from a high countertop. Keepinga basic set of cooking utensils at every workstation also

saves steps. These guidelines also make the food-preparea more usable:

.. If you install two sinks, mount them at two heights, with

the edge of the highest no more than 34 inches.

.. At least one sink should provide clear knee space that

measures at least 27 inches high, 30 inches wide, and

19 inches deep. (Wider is better.)

.. Sink basins should be no more than 6Yz inches deep

with a rear drain for people who prefer to sit or to allow

children to use a step stool.

.. Insulate the bottom of the sink and the water pipes to

protect any seated cook from bums and/or cuts... Make sure fixtures and other workstations are within

universal reach range (15 to 48 inches).

.. Install single-handle/lever faucets that can be operated

with a closed fist.

.. Choose a sprayer with an extra long hose.

.. Place the sink near the range so you can use the sprayer

to fill pots while on the burner.

.. Consider a garbage disposer at a double-basin sink

provided kneespace can be made under one sink.

right Beauty was not spared

on the island, as this

monochromatic tile pattern

shows. The island countertop,

where company is most

likely to sit, is made of

solid-surfacing. Less

expensive laminate is used

on the other countertops.


above The Craftsman-style pendant, made of

formica and metal, directs light over the sink while

casting a glow throughout the kitchen.

Efficient StorageAlthough this house is not large, every inch of space is

used. A pullout pantry and pull-down shelves put items at

the fingertips of short or seated cooks. Universally designedstorage offers great options for all homeowners. Follow

these guidelines:

II Vary cabinet sizes for use by family members of different

heights and physical needs; consider children and tallmen or women.

II Use lowered wall cabinets or pull-down storage units so

objects and supplies are within the universal reach range

requirements of 15 to 48 inches.

II Include cabinets that allow for knee space (at least

27 inches high, 30 inches wide, and 19 inches deep).II Consider cabinet doors that slide back into the cabinet.

II Place magnetic latches on cabinets for easier closure.

II Choose cabinet components that facilitate access

to stored supplies and appliances, including larger,heavier items: rotating units, such as lazy Susans;

shelves that pull or roll out of base cabinets; andfull-extension drawers.

II Use a wide entry and storage units that rotate or pull outfor a walk-in pantry.

II Install pull-out shelves in base cabinets.

II Consider loop handles on cabinet doors and drawers.

II Use shelves that are height adjustable in wall cabinets

or are just above countertops.

II Install shelves that move up and down for maximum

storage in full-height pantries.II Consider shelves 4 to 6 inches wide at the back of the

counter for convenient everyday storage.

cold STORAGEThe homeowners placed the refrigerator and pantry close

together to aid in food preparation and unloading groceries.

II Side-by-side refrigerators offer access at a variety of

heights usable by everyone.

II Icemakers and water dispensers in the refrigerator door

are convenient for everyone.

II The refrigerator/freezer is on a raised platform.II Roll-out drawers ease access to food.

II Spill-proof shelves, container storage in the door, slide-out

shelves, and see-through vegetable bins ease access.

II Door handles require minimal effort and finger use.


Cooking CenterSafety and comfort are paramount for anyone who cooks.

Oven controls should be easy to read and require little

gripping to turn. Instead of the coil burners shown here,

some homeowners prefer smooth glass tops so they canslide heavy pots and pans to the countertop. However,

smooth glass cooktops are not good for people with lowvision or who are blind. Here are other considerations

when shopping for a range.

II1II An indicator light on the range that warns ifa burneris hot helps prevent burns.

II1II You won't need an overhead vent hood if you install

a downdraft venting system, which has vents at the

center or at the back of the cooktop. They are equipped

with high-power fans that pull heat away from the user.

II1II Alarms on the range must be both visual and audible.II1II Allow sufficient room on both sides of the oven for

easier access to the oven interior.

II1II Self-cleaning ovens are good timesavers.II1II Place the microwave oven at counter height with

a pull-out shelf in front and knee space below.

Countertops should have rounded edges and comers. There is plenty

of counter space beside the cooktop and oven, easing removal of hot

pots. These guidelines make countertops functional:

II Use a contrasting color for the border treatment on countertops

to enhance visibility.

II Install fold-down shelves or pull-out countertops to meet all familymembers' size requirements.

II Install easy-clean surfaces.

II Have continuous countertop space to slide heavy objects.

II Plan a food-preparation countertop that is 30 to 32 inches highwith knee space below.

II Install a pull-out cutting board 30 inches high belowthe countertop.

II Install heatproof surfaces, especially near cooking appliances.

II A slightly lipped countertop edge minimizes spills running offonto the floor.

above A quick turn of the lazySusan in the corner

cabinet makes contents visible at first glance andhandy at first reach.


People-FriendlyCleanup CenterWashing dishes or clothes may not be the high point of your day,however, installation of a raised dishwasher and convenient laundrycenter make these chores easier.

Raising the height of the washer and dryer also helps you avoid

excess bending. You can effortlessly toss clothes into a front-loading

washer, which uses less detergent, and a front-loading dryer. The tops

of both come in handy as counter space. Make sure the lint catcher is

in front for easier cleaning.

Extend convenience into your closets. Install adjustable-height

shelving (great for growing kids) and hang clothing on a motorized

clothing carousel. Double racks in closets allow for less reach and

more storage space.

DishwasherRaise the height of the dishwasher 6 to 16 inches

to eliminate extra bending.Look for a dishwasher with these features:

controls on the upper rim of the door; automatic

soil-content, water-temperature, and cycle-

selection sensors; flexible loading features such

as fold-down tines; a lockout switch to prevent

accidental operation; an easy-to-read display;

and electronic problem indicators. A dishwasher

drawer unit is another option, especially for

a household of one or two people. Also consider

high contrast lettering indicating function, and

large buttons (smooth control areas are difficultfor people with low vision).

This house uses matte ceramic tile and carpeting to

prevent slipping. Here are some other ways to keep traffic

moving smoothly through your home:

III Install level nonskid flooring (prefinished hardwood is

a good choice).

III Choose surfaces such as vinyl, wood, and low-pile

carpeting, which do not impede the movement of wheels.

III Use different flooring for tactile clues for navigation,

such as tile in the entrance, carpet in the living room,

and vinyl in the kitchen.

III Secure the edges of area rugs.

III Remove throw or scatter rugs to minimize tripping.

III Install lighting at floor level and along stairs toenhance vision.

III Leave a clear, unobstructed 30x48-inch floor space in

front of the refrigerator, range, microwave, sink,

countertops, and dishwasher.III Leave a minimum of 60 inches in diameter in the kitchen

to allow a wheelchair to turn 360 degrees.

LET THERE

BE lightIII To reduce bending, place electrical

outlets 18 to 24 inches above

the floor.

III Motion-sensitive lighting or touch

lights are easier for everyone to use

and especially helpful when a family

member lacks dexterity.

III Light switches should be mounted44 to 48 inches above the floor.

III Light switches that slide up and downare easier to turn on and off.

III Glowing light switches can be seenin the dark.

III Provide ambient lighting for overall

room illumination, task lighting over

work areas, and accent lighting to

focus on art and objects.

III Reduce glare with window treatments,

textured wallpaper, matte wall paint, or

low-gloss floors.


Acknowledgments

Special Thanks to:Tom and Lorena Ament

John and Lisa EganPaul and Jan Grant

Emily and Chris KearnsBonnie and David Krill

Lynn Mann-Hallmark and Don HallmarkThe Mantey FamilyDoug Scheffler

National Kitchen & Bath Association

687 Willow Grove Street

Hackettstown, NJ 07840877/NKBA-PRO (877/652-2776)www.nkba.com

The Center for Universal Design

North Carolina State University

Campus Box 8613Raleigh, NC 27695-8613www.design.ncsu.edu/cud

Chapter 2

Pages 34-41

Decorative Painting: Don Soderberg PaintingMike Rowlings, Milwaukee, Wisconsin414/771-1288

Furnishings: Peabody's InteriorsLisa Minneti, Whitefish Bay,Wisconsin414/962-4550

Interior Decorator: Emily KearnsMequon, Wisconsin

Pages 42-47

Decorator: Lynn Mann-HallmarkMilwaukee, Wisconsin

Pages 48-53Flooring and Countertops: Total Floor

Covering,Appleton, Wisconsin800/236-2275

E-mail: [email protected]

Interior Design Consultant: Cynthia Mantey

Green Bay,Wisconsin920/884-3182

Pages 54-61Designer/Decorator: Bonnie KrillCedar Grove,Wisconsin

Pages 62-67

Architect: Jeff Hibbard Design Services, Inc.(920) 731-7365

[email protected]: TomAment

Kaukauna, Wisconsin(920) 766-7900

tja@wiscobuilds,comInterior Design: Elite Home CreationsDeb Van Straten

(920) [email protected]


Interior Decorating: Kathy MitchellMenasha, Wisconsin(920) 729-6006

[email protected]

Page 68Power Access Automatic Door Opener

by Power Access Corporation170 Main Street

New Hartford, CT060571-800-344-0088

6

Pages 158-167Architect/Project Manager: Rosemann &

Associates, Eddie TapperKansas City,Missouri816/472-1448www.rosemann.com

Property Owner/Executive Director:

Universal Design Housing NetworkPaul LevyKansas City,MO816/751-7898

www.udhn.org

Interior Design: American Society of Interior

Designers, Missouri-West/Kansas ChapterCarolyn Wear,ASID

91 3/268-9126

Doreen Gregory, ASID91 3/341 -591 7

Sallie Kytt Redd, ASID913/492-3158

Sheryl Koch, ASID816/537-0133

Kelly Stewart816/803-0036

Deborah Cook816/313-8104

Suzette Burton

888/471-1715

Chapter 7Pages 168-187Kitchen and Bath Design Center:

Beth Loerke, Home Depot #4903Electrical: Team Services

Appleton, Wisconsin920/738-5885

E-mail: [email protected] Backsplash: Total Floor Covering,


E-mail: [email protected]

Painting: Gregg J. Kranzusch PaintingNeenah, Wisconsin

Plastering: Uitenbroek Plastering Inc.


Plumbing: Keyes & Sons Plumbing& Heating, Inc.Appleton, Wisconsin920/725-2494

Want to do it yourself?If you're interested in renovating or remodeling

your kitchen on your own The Home Depot@

1-2-3 library offers clear and concise step-by-

step, project-driven books to help you through

the process,

Titles include: Home Improvement 1-2-3,

Decorating 1-2-3,Decorative Painting 1-2-3,Wiring 1-2-3, Plumbing 1-2-3, Flooring 1-2-3,and Tiling 1-2-3. These books are available atThe Home Depot and at bookstoresthroughout North America