Inclusive Home Design
Inclusive home design: 5 ways to future-proof your home without sacrificing style
Ged, our Senior Architectural Technologist, is on a mission to make homes accessible and comfortable for all. Having supported loved ones with disabilities, Ged knows that inclusive design isn’t just about function – it’s about making spaces that feel like home, no matter your needs.
With his in-depth knowledge of the Lifetime Homes guidance, Ged’s here to share his top 5 tips for future-proofing your home without sacrificing your style.
- Rethink Your Entryways
Let’s talk about your front door—how easy is it to get to?
Steps might seem small, but they can become a real hurdle as we get older. Most houses, even some newer ones, have a step or two that can be tricky for anyone with mobility issues. The ideal? A smooth, level entryway that makes entering your home easy.
And while we’re outside, take a look at your driveway. With cars getting bigger and outdoor space shrinking, is there enough room to open those car doors wide, especially if you’re dealing with a wheelchair?
- Embrace (or Consider) Open-Plan Living
Open-plan living isn’t for everyone, but it can make a world of difference when it comes to age-proofing your home. Reducing the number of corridors and doorways can make your living spaces more functional in the future.
If you’re not keen on open plan think about installing wide sliding or pocket doors to close off one area. Lightweight partitions to divide rooms are also an option. These can give you the flexibility to reconfigure room arrangements in the future, without a huge price tag.
- Let There Be Light
Our eyes might need a bit more help as we age, so it’s time to shine a light on those tricky spots like stairways and hallways.
Adding lighting to the underside of each step and lighting under kitchen or bathroom cabinets can help to brighten these usually dark areas. But, watch out for glare; choose softer, glare-free lighting options to help eliminate the shine off reflective surfaces.
- Grab a Stylish Rail
Grab rails can be a lifesaver, but who says they must be plastic and dull-looking?
These days, you can find rails in sleek metal or warm timber, or even as part of other home accessories like towel racks or shelving. They blend in beautifully while still offering a steady hand when you need it.
And don’t forget the design of furniture and fittings, pieces like a stylish bathroom vanity unit provide a suitable stable surface to steady yourself.
- Ground Floor Bathrooms: Not Just for Guests
A downstairs loo is always useful, but why not take it up a notch? Extending that space into a good-sized shower room can make life easier down the line—plus, it’s perfect for rinsing off after a muddy walk or beach day. Make sure there’s enough room for wheelchair access and a 5-foot turning circle, so the space works for everyone, both now and in the future.
Incorporating these features doesn’t mean compromising on style. With a bit of clever design (and our expertise!), you can create a home that’s as beautiful as it is functional.
Let’s make sure your home is ready for whatever the future holds—while keeping it looking fabulous.
Contact us today
All images sourced from Google.
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