Residential construction varies depending on the needs of the homeowner. Beauty, modern features, connectivity, space, energy efficiency, durability and many other factors can play a role in completing the picture. However, one of the features often overlooked is accessibility.
Kitchens, for example, are not always the most accessible spaces, especially for people with challenged mobility. It’s often more difficult to find kitchens built to the specifications of universal design, but if you’re planning home improvements, that should be on your checklist.
A kitchen renovation performed by a professional remodeling contractor should add to the value of your home. Most people who are looking for a home that follows universal design principles are less likely to pass up on a home with a kitchen that is properly equipped for accessibility. Studies also show that kitchen renovations — especially when they follow universal design — have recoup values of up to 110%.
To get started on your new kitchen design that accommodates wheelchair accessibility, here are some ideas:
Kitchen Counters
- A typical kitchen countertop would be about 36 inches high. To be more accessible for a person in a wheelchair, build your countertops 2 inches lower during your residential remodeling.
- As for adjustable workspaces, make them 28 to 36 inches high.
- Drop the base cabinets from your design to make way for knee and toe room.
- It’s a good idea to make personalized measurements for the user’s comfort.
- To make the dimensions perfect, measure each member of the family, and use adjustable tables for accuracy.
- For even more comfort for wheelchair users, install pull-out shelves at the food preparation area.
Kitchen Sinks
- Your kitchen sink should have open space underneath. This will allow a person in a wheelchair or one using a walker to access the sink safely and comfortably. Discuss your options with your remodeling contractor.
- Measurements for the area under the sink depend on the user, but the standard dimensions for adults are 27 inches in height and 8 inches in depth. For children, make it 11 inches deep.
- A regular sink would have piping at the center down below, but for this sink, make sure the piping is at the rear. This allows a wheelchair user or a walker user to use the sink without bumping into the pipe.
- Apply insulation on the pipes to protect sink users from hot pipes.
- Ensure the water heater is set at a temperature that will not cause burns.
- Install the faucet to the side of the sink for easier access. A single lever is recommended. You can also buy a faucet with touch control.
- Keep cleaning products and other frequently used items in long drawers on both sides of the sink.
Kitchen Cabinets
- During your residential remodeling, position cabinets low enough for wheelchair users to reach. If your budget allows, ask your residential construction professional about adjustable cabinets equipped with a button for lowering and raising.
- Equip kitchen cabinets with additional features for accessibility, such as lazy susans, pull-down and adjustable shelves, etc.
- Whatever items are used frequently by the person with limited mobility should be placed in lower cabinets where they are easier to reach.
- Looped cabinet pulls are more comfortable to use than knobs.
Other Considerations
- Design the kitchen cabinets and countertops with consideration for appliances, which should also be height-adjusted or adjustable for easier access.
- During residential construction, install grab handles in the hallways and wherever they can be safely installed.
- A rolling cabinet for moving dishes and other items or for working is highly recommended.
- Consider accessibility when you position light switches and electrical outlets.
- Make sure the doors and hallways are wide enough to navigate a wheelchair or a walker with ease.
Kingdom Restoration can help design and build your kitchen with improved accessibility for limited-mobility users. Call us today at (941) 263-8715 or contact us here.
