Many building and remodeling contractors have some ideas as to what could be done for wheelchair access, but most are at a loss as to what features can be incorporated for diminishing eyesight.  This process takes time, effort and expertise; and the access solutions should be customized to each individual’s needs. 

Access Features
To get you started thinking about your project, here are some design access features that can be incorporated to address your immediate and long term visual needs.  They will help you to improve safety, maintain your independence, and still offer beauty and function in the design of your home.


  • High contrast makes it easier for persons with limited vision to identify objects.  Objects stand out if they contrast with their backgrounds such as sinks, outlets, doorways, grab bars, etc.

  • Identify circulation routes with a different floor material than those used in adjacent rooms.  Straight lines and right angles are easiest for those with visual impairments to negotiate. 

  • Shadows and reflections can be deceiving and often confusing to individuals with visual impairments.  Place items such as hanging plants and mirrors with care as they may be misperceived as people or door openings.

  • Flooring transitions can be tripping hazards.  All floor surfaces and transitions should be neutral, with no abrupt rises – or if necessary, rises should be detectable by a cane. 

  • Areas/rooms that are large or have a lot of hard surfaces can cause “sound” confusion. Such areas should be treated with fabrics and sound-absorbing treatments to help control sound, making the direction of its source more obvious.  Hard floor surfaces, needed for wheelchair access, add challenge to this issue.

  • Avoid any protrusion into circulation areas.  Sliding and accordian doors are preferred over swinging doors, as they do not obstruct circulation routes.  This applies to doorways and also cabinet doors – especially wall-mounted units, which can’t be detected with a cane.

  • Stairs should have handrails on each side that extend beyond the stairwell; as well as texturizing on the floor area in front of the stairwell to warn people of the nearby step up/down.


This list is just a sample of the many access features that can be incorporated into a home design or remodeling project to address reduced or no vision.  Seek expert input from an access specialist to achieve a truly customized accessible home.

Jane A. Hampton, CID, CAPS is the President and Founder of Accessibility Design, a Minneapolis, MN based home access design, consultation, and project management company (est.1992). As a Certified Interior Designer and Certified Aging in Place Specialist, Jane Hampton was one of the early pioneers in developing the specialty niche of home access and defining what it is today. She and her company have captured the essence of Universal Design, Aging in Place, and Home Access and have helped thousands enhance their lives by refining residential access and independent living. She is looked to as an expert in the field, as well as an educator on both a regional and national level.  

For more information regarding Jane Hampton and her company Accessibility Design, please visit www.accessibilitydesign.com.

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