To create plenty of sources of natural light to help his mother cope with her failing eyesight, he installed large windows and selfflashing skylights from Home Depot. Color is almost as important as light in accessible-housing design. For example, to help his mother find doors to rooms and the apartment itself, he painted them yellow to make them easily distinguishable from the walls. Click here to read more.. »
Making Renovation Project Barrier-Free (5)
Entry to the building was accomplished by a concrete ramp with a two-tiered railing near the front door. The end of the ramp at the sidewalk could be lowered even farther, for easier wheelchair access. The door to the building opened out, permitting a 90-degree turn so that a wheelchair-bound person entering the building could be assisted. Click here to read more.. »
Making Renovation Project Barrier-Free (4)
Remember that such changes will allow you to live in your house for a very long time. Universal design features will likely be more cost-effective and less of a disruption in your life than buying a new house designed to be free of barriers. Click here to read more.. »
Making Renovation Project Barrier-Free (3)
Some houses include flexible “bonus” space that can accommodate a live-in nurse if that becomes necessary. An addition can include first-floor space that can be converted into a bedroom later or a master bedroom now, thus shifting guestrooms to the second floor. Click here to read more.. »
Making Renovation Project Barrier-Free (2)
Universal design incorporates most federal design and accessibility guidelines because, over time, it allows a consumer to grow into a house. Making the house entirely wheelchair accessible by designing wider hallways and entryways is a way to avoid costly retrofitting later. Click here to read more.. »