If you follow design news, you may have heard about a new movement called Universal Design. This exciting idea taking hold in the design world aims to design products, services, and environments that can be used and enjoyed by as many people as possible without the need for adaption or specialized design.

So, what does that mean from a practical perspective? Well, Universal Design means that a space should accommodate everyone, regardless of age, ability, or situation, without having to specifically adapt or remodel the space. It’s the difference between a home that everyone can use, and a home that is merely handicap accessible.

If you’re thinking, “This can’t possibly look good,” think again! When done well, you can’t even tell that Universal Design principles were used. And if you are thinking about remodeling your home, you may want to incorporate some of these principles as well. After all, don’t you want your home to appeal to as many potential buyers as possible? Some of the elements you might want to include are wider doorways, rocker light switches, lever handles, and direct walk in showers (no threshhold or lip to step over).

Note the Universal Design features in this bathroom, like the lack of a shower threshhold (no tripping hazard) and the easy to flip faucet handle.

While Universal Design is for people of all ages and abilities, it is also linked with another great design idea called Aging in Place. Aging in Place is the concept that you should design your home to fit your needs both now and in the future. This will allow you to enjoy greater safety and independence as you age, without having to leave your home.

Our principal designer, Michelle Nettles, recently finished training as a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) and will soon receive her certificate. This means we will be working with contractors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists to design spaces that everyone can appreciate, including special needs clients, and those with an eye to the future.

Stay tuned to the blog, because we’ll be sharing much more information about Universal Design, Aging in Place, and how MJN & Associates Interiors can help you improve your John’s Creek, Duluth, or Atlanta area home.

Photo via Houzz