"Universal Design allows the home to age with the homeowner. As your needs change the home accommodates those needs. It is not unusual for Universal Design to add 15+ years of livability to the home.
Doug Collins, Collins Custom Builders
What is Universal Design?
Universal Design refers to the
construction approach and design of all aspects of a home to enable people of all ages and abilities to live comfortably and easily in their homes. Universal Design is also referred to as "aging in place"
What makes a home "universal"? It's simple. Everyone can use universal design! It doesn't matter if you are young or old. You could be short or tall, healthy or ill. You might have a disability. Or you may be a prize-winning athlete. Because of universal design, people who are very different can all enjoy the same home. And that home will be there for all its inhabitants even when their needs change.
What sorts of things are included in Universal Design?
Universal Design incorporates many different things from having a "Step-less" accessible entry into the home and curbless showers. This requires a floor plan conducive to disabilities, such as a bedroom on the main floor, lever style door handles rather that doorknobs, Casement style windows, and wider hallways and door frames to enable the user to move easily throughout the home with or without a disability. Universal Design is not only functional it looks great as well!
You'll find out that there are easier and safer ways to carry out your daily activities. Universal Design can help. Give it a try!
More Universal Design Links: Please notify us of any dead links: Doug@Collins
(Check back often as we will be adding new links on a regular basis!)
The Center for U.D.
great site for all information
http://www.adaptationsinc.com/
Design and consulting service
www.visualizerset.com
planning and design tools
Hud Publication PDF
This is a large file (8.5 mb) but a handy resource for the housing professional and the do-it-yourselfer alike. Its clear descriptions and abundant graphics can help homeowners plan new home, remodeling or rehabilitation projects.
CustomBuilders.com
Thank you
Walk through the home below to see just a few key Universal Design features we would recommend!
Click on the house photo for a full size slide show!
There are many more Universal Design, Aging in place, and Building Green features that you can add to your project with little or no additional cost!
Universal Design & Building Green is building healthier for you, the environment, and your wallet.
Universal Design Links:
(Check back often as we will be adding new links on a regular basis!)
Universal Design Living Laboratory Homes Across
Great article and idea links
A Showcase of Resource-Efficient Homes
Sustainable Design
Frequently asked questions and more
Universal Design for New Home Construction or Remodel projects
Serving Northern Colorado Since 1999
(970) 686-2351 or Email us at:
Doug@CollinsCustomBuilders.com
