If you’ve never heard of the concept of universal design when it comes to kitchen décor, don’t fret – many haven’t. Here we’ll discuss what this trend is, and why it can add significant value to your home.
What Is Universal Design?
To best explain this concept, let’s use an example. If you have a person who uses a wheelchair in your family, the home would be built with this concept in mind, right? This means widened doorways, wheelchair-accessible ramps and in the most luxurious homes – even built-in elevators.
In short, universal design is simply accessible home design. It takes concepts like the ones above to another level. In the case of kitchen décor, this would mean adding features like adjustable countertops and cabinets, knee space under counter tops and shelving, shelving that pulls out from a sit-down level to provide extra food and work-prep space, etc.
Why Universal Design Can Add Value to Your Home
There are two reasons universal design is becoming so popular and can add value to your home.
Aging Population: Americans are aging. The percentage of senior citizens has just about doubled since 1950. And as many of them are living extended, healthier lives, they want to remain in their homes longer. A kitchen constructed using universal design is a natural concept for a country with an aging population.
Disabled Americans: Population experts estimate that about 49 million Americans have some type of disability. Citizens with disabilities are one of the fastest growing segments of the population, along with senior citizens. And, like senior citizens, they require adaptations to make a home work for them.
So if you’re thinking about building or renovating your kitchen, ask your contractor about some universal kitchen design concepts you can incorporate. It just may be the competitive selling advantage you need later on.
