As our population continues to age and our awareness of diverse abilities grows, the concept of universal design has become an increasingly popular approach to homebuilding. Universal design is an architectural philosophy that seeks to create living spaces that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, ensuring a more inclusive, comfortable, and functional way of life.
By incorporating universal design features into your custom home in Utah County, you not only make your living space more accessible and accommodating but also future-proof your home to adapt to changing needs throughout your lifetime.
At Riding Homes, our experienced team of builders and designers is dedicated to helping you create a custom home that embodies the principles of universal design. We are committed to providing our clients with an accessible and adaptable living environment that fosters safety, comfort, and ease of use.
Whether you are planning for multigenerational living or simply want a home that can adapt to your needs as you age, we can help you design a custom home that superbly caters to your unique requirements and preferences.
In this blog post, we will discuss the various universal design features you can incorporate into your custom home in Utah County to enhance accessibility, safety, and comfort. We will explore elements such as wider doorways and hallways, non-slip flooring, and adaptable living spaces, all designed to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.
Allow us to guide you through the process of designing a custom home that embodies the principles of universal design, ensuring a lifetime of enjoyment and ease for you and your loved ones.
Identifying Key Elements of Universal Design for Your Custom Home
Understanding the various elements of universal design can help guide your custom home in Utah County towards a more accessible and inclusive living space:
- Barrier-Free Access: Eliminate steps, curbs, and other barriers that may restrict the movement of people with limited mobility, making it easier for everyone to navigate your home.
- Wider Doorways and Hallways: Ensure doorways and hallways are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility aids, providing ample space for all users to move freely.
- Adaptable Living Spaces: Design living areas that can be easily adapted to the changing needs of occupants, allowing for easy modifications to suit different life stages, abilities, and preferences.
- Accessible Fixtures and Appliances: Incorporate accessible fixtures and appliances, such as lever-style door handles and controls, adjustable-height countertops, and more, to promote ease of use for all.
Enhancing Safety with Non-Slip Flooring and Walk-In Showers
Incorporating safety features in your custom home is essential to ensuring a comfortable and secure environment for all residents:
- Non-Slip Flooring: Choose non-slip flooring materials, such as textured tiles or slip-resistant vinyl, for areas prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
- Walk-In Showers: Install walk-in showers with low-entry thresholds and built-in seating, making it safer and more comfortable for individuals with limited mobility to bathe independently.
- Grab Bars and Handrails: Place grab bars and handrails strategically throughout the home, particularly in bathrooms and on stairs, providing support and stability for those who might need it.
Fostering Independence with Accessible Kitchen and Bathroom Design
Thoughtful design choices in kitchens and bathrooms can significantly enhance the independence and wellbeing of all occupants:
- Adjustable Countertops and Cabinets: Opt for adjustable-height countertops and cabinets with easy-to-reach access, allowing users to modify the space to suit their unique needs and abilities.
- Easy-Operate Fixtures: Choose fixtures that are easy to operate, like lever-style faucets and hands-free controls, to make daily tasks more manageable for users with limited dexterity or strength.
- Roll-Under Sinks and Cooktops: Install roll-under sinks and cooktops with ample knee clearance, making it more convenient for wheelchair users to access and use these essential areas.
Incorporating Multigenerational Design Considerations in Your Custom Home
Embrace the trend of multigenerational living by designing your custom home to accommodate the diverse needs of various age groups and abilities:
- Private Living Quarters: Create private living quarters with separate entrances and amenities, allowing for independence and privacy among different generations under one roof.
- Flexible Bedroom Options: Design bedrooms with flexible layouts, such as first-floor master suites, that can adapt to accommodate various age groups and family compositions over time.
- Inclusive Outdoor Spaces: Ensure that your outdoor living spaces are accessible and inclusive, with features like ramps, wide pathways, and low-maintenance landscaping suitable for people of all ages and abilities.
Conclusion
Incorporating universal design features into your custom home in Utah County is an investment in your home’s liveability, longevity, and overall enjoyment. By focusing on accessibility, safety, flexibility, and inclusive design, you can create a living environment that is welcoming and accommodating to people of all ages and abilities.
Partnering with Riding Homes, you can trust that our team of skilled builders and designers will bring your vision of an inclusive custom home to life, crafting a stunning property that is tailored to the diverse needs and preferences of its occupants.
Embrace the principles of universal design, and let us help you design and build a custom home in Utah County that resonates with your values and showcases your commitment to inclusive living. Contact Riding Homes today to begin your journey towards creating a universally designed custom home that you and your loved ones will treasure for generations to come.
Looking to make your dream home a reality? Visit Utah Design Center at Riding Homes and let our team of experts guide you through the process! Our state-of-the-art showroom features the latest trends and technology in home design, and our experienced staff is here to help you every step of the way. From flooring to lighting to custom cabinetry, we have everything you need to create the perfect space. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start building the home of your dreams!