This book covers universal design principles, which can be used during the building or remodeling process to make homes accessible to everyone regardless of height, weight, age, level of ability or any other characteristic.
Universal Design Tips
As an example of her target audience, Jordan points to the “sandwich generation.” These are the people who find themselves taking care of both their children and parents, which means their homes are full of residents who have different needs.
Tips offered in the book such as having smooth, slip-resistant flooring and an open floor plan are beneficial for increasing safety for both the elderly and children.
The attention to small details in Universal Design for the Home makes this book stand out as a work that has the potential to make everyday life easier for people with disabilities. Installing lower-than-usual light switches and higher-than-usual electrical outlets, for example, is a fairly simple project that can make life a little easier for people in wheelchairs.
If the reader fears that universal design means a loss in aesthetic value, much in the way that one-size-fits-all clothing sometimes lacks visual appeal, the author writes that “universal design features blend seamlessly into home designs, drawing little attention to themselves, yet making the designs much better.” Included in the book are plenty of diagrams and color photographs for visual reference.
After implementing the recommendations offered in Universal Design for the Home to enhance the ability for a home to be visitable and beautiful, any resident or guest will feel at home.
Publisher: Quarry Books
Publish date: Feb. 1, 2008
ISBN-10: 1592533817
ISBN-13: 978-1592533817
