Should Your New Kitchen Have Universal Appeal?

What is universal design and why would you want to consider it for your kitchen remodel?

When you employ a universal design approach, you are creating space that can easily be used by people of all ages and all ability levels. The result is a kitchen that everybody in the family can fully enjoy – from kids to grandparents to family members and friends who may have a visual impairment or use a wheelchair. Proponents of universal design also point out that it will save you the cost and work of modifying the room later as your own needs change.

Many of the universal recommendations are ones that will make your new kitchen more convenient and efficient, period. Consider some of the following features:

• Drawer dishwashers.
• Easy touch cabinet doors or larger drawer and door pulls that are easier to grip.
• Under-cabinet lighting.
• White cabinet interiors that will make stored items easier to locate.
• Non-slip floor surfaces such as laminate or hardwood with a non-slip finish, instead of throw rugs or polished marble.

• Rollout shelves and lazy Susans that make items easier to reach.
• A pot filler faucet above the cooktop  to eliminate carrying large pots of water from the sink.
• Raised toe kick spaces and open space for knee clearance under the sink, the cooktop and a countertop area make it easy to sit and work.
• Include work surfaces of varying heights.
• A rolling serving cart (coordinated with the cabinetry) is a great labor saver. Use it to serve meals, transport dirty dishes and unload groceries.
• Opt for sliding controls, push plates, or push buttons instead of small dials that require twisting.

As the name suggests, universal design is design.  Applying the principles to a kitchen remodel does not mean sacrificing style. You can have a great looking room that is comfortable and safe for all your chefs and kitchen helpers