Kitchen: Universal design
Gina Simpson of Decor and You DC and Monarch Design Remodeling created multiple layouts for the kitchen. Warm maple gingersnap cabinets compliment a lighter Silestone countertop to create a cozy feel. Universal design elements include a sink and multiple wall cabinets that lift and lower, as well as an under counter microwave and drawer
Ideally, refrigeration and dry-goods storage should be located nearest to the kitchen’s entry point. The cooking area should be located toward the dining spaces, and the sink is best positioned between those two functions. This creates what’s called a work triangle. The best work triangle is less than 21 linear feet (6.4 meters). Work triangles that exceed 26 feet (7.9 meters) make moving from one function to another inefficient in most cases.
Ensure that floors are slip-resistant. Materials that don’t get slick reduce the chances of falling when there’s a spill. Floor tile should have enough grout and texture to grip your feet. Porcelain tile absorbs less moisture than ceramic tile or other flooring types; it’s also easy to maintain and clean. Vinyl flooring can offer good slip resistance too, and it’s softer on your feet.
Pick drawers, not doors. The best part about drawers is that they display all your flatware and utensils at once, which allows for easy grabbing. You don’t have to get on your knees and peer into the back of the cabinet to see what’s available. Large drawers don’t skimp on storage space. Any set wider than 30 inches can stow plenty of pots and pans.
Choose standard counter-depth appliances and cabinets without any frills. Designing an age-proof kitchen isn’t the time to get fancy with decorative legs, ornate refrigerator panels or angled counters. Though these eye-catchers add personality, they can transform your space into an obstacle course. You’re more prone to bump your knees, legs and hips on appliances and cabinetry details that jut out from the counter.
Keep the sink close to the stove. As we age, it’s harder on our arms and backs to carry big pots full of water to and from the cooktop. If any spills on the way, it becomes a slipping hazard. You may be tempted to put your sink next to your stove, but be sure to leave workspace in between. It defeats the purpose if you’re forced to hold a pot longer than is comfortable because you can’t find a place to set it down.
Southern Living SaveEmail Where it isn’t possible to have the sink on the same side as the stove (or if the layout won’t work for the way you cook), there’s another option. Place the sink across from the stove, and you’re only 180 degrees and a step or two away. This works well in galley-style kitchens.
0. Have a flat shower entry. This minimizes your risk of tripping over a step as you enter your shower. It’s also a wheelchair-accessible feature. If you forgo a shower step, your shower floor will need to be properly sloped to allow water to drain correctly. If you do include a step, don’t make it large and bulky.
A custom designed eat-in banquette with bench provides plenty of seating and a table that will accommodate wheelchairs.
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