integrating universal design into remodeling · into remodeling september 22, 2009 remodeling...

Integrating Universal Design into Remodeling

September 22, 2009

Remodeling Futures ConferenceHarvard Joint Center for Housing Studies

RL Mace Universal Design Institute

Typical Homes

Peter Pan Homes

A Universal Approach to Remodeling

• Home Access Modifications– Add UD approach

• “Standard” Remodeling– Add UD features

Entry Alteration

A Universal Approach to Remodeling

• Home Access Modifications– Add UD approach

• “Standard” Remodeling– Add UD features

Curbless Showers

Irma Dobkin

Project Types

• Entrance/Porch

• Circulation

• Bath

• Kitchen

• Storage

• Addition/Other

UNIVERSAL DESIGN

UNIVERSAL DESIGN

Equitable Use

Flexibilityin Use

Simple and Intuitive Use

Perceptible Information

Size and Space for Approach and Use

Low Physical Effort

Tolerance for Error

The Principles work most effectively when used together

Universal Entrance

The Center for Universal Design

Concrete Change

VistAbility in PA

Vertical Platform Lift

With Landscaping and Roof

Louis Tennenbaum

Avoid

Pretty but...

Circulation

Door Widening

Circulation

Door width– 3’-0” (or 2’-10”)

Hall width– Minimum 3’-6”

preferred

Stacked Closets

Residential Elevator

Dual Handrails

StorageStorage

Bathroom

Confusion

Major Renovation

Toilets

The Center for Universal Design

The Center for Universal Design

Commode Closet

Curbless Showers

Irma Dobkin

Three-WayBathing

Kitchen

Very Accessible - Not UD

Better Design

Universal Kitchen

Adaptable Base CabinetsAdaptable Base Cabinets

Commonwealth Construction & Design, Inc.Chapel Hill, NC

ApplianceChoices

Storage at all reach ranges

FrontOperations

Home Automation

No Touch Faucet

Household Advantages

Aging in place• Remodeling dollars saved• Move out delayed or eliminated• Convenience • Ease of Use• Safety• Independence

Universal Design

Broad beneficiaries– Visiting Relatives/Friends– Multi-generational use

Market Appeal– Attractive to future buyer

Customization

Barriers/OpportunitiesIndustry readiness

• Builder/remodeler expertise

• Designer expertise

Finance - incentives

• Industry awareness - lenders, appraisers,

inspectors, Realtors

Government involvement

Lack of consumer awareness and demand

Household Fears

• Aging

• Disability

• Health Problems

• Appearance

• Resale value

• Not currently needed

• Costly

Action Steps

• Add UD/Home Access Remodeling to Existing Services

• Be creative• Re-characterize typical work

Action Steps

• CAPS Training• Advanced CAPS• National Branding Initiative

Review

• UD - home access modifications• UD – standard projects• Consumer resistance• Stimulus needed?• Initiatives underway• Resources are available

Designing for Human Diversity

R.L. Mace Universal Design Institute

Chapel Hill, NC

Office: 919-960-6734Web: udinstitute.org

Richard Duncanrduncan@udinstitute.org

R.L. Mace Universal Design Institute