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Universal Design
 Stunning and  Functional Homes
Comfortable and Cost-Wise Checklist

  Universal Design Darryl Rantis, Architect

  

 All-Inclusive Design for Today and Tomorrow

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The idea of creating an all-inclusive home is not a new one.

The idea of a home that offers enduring features is not a new one. As we age, that certainly makes sense,  as it does throughout a lifetime. And it is possible seamlessly to incorporate accessibility features into a home- with just a bit of thoughtful planning. This is especially important when you desire the results to be both stunning and functional, and to work for every stage of life.

 Many creative professionals are dedicated to improving the lives of children, youth and older people through intergenerational collaboration.  This is especially true of  Generations United, or GU.   In terms of multigenerational homes, more and more  families are working toward collaboration.

And, according to a Home Features Survey by the National Association of REALTORS®, more buyers are also saying that they’d pay extra for a home with an in-law suite.  

Across Generations, Demographics, and Regions

More and more these days,   people are opting for homes that can work across the generations, an intuition born out by a recent Pew Research Center . This report found that living in multi-generational households definitely is on the rise.

Is this trend simply due to family economics? Not so say a number of  homebuilders who tell us – “ the demand for housing that accommodates several generations under one roof [is and continues to be] on the rise... across all demographics and regions”.

Biophilic Multigeneration Low-Energy House - Design Thesis Studio

Here’s an animation depicting what you might refer to as
The Ultimate Expanding  Multi-generational PALACE... .

Universal Design

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5 Comfortable and Cost-Wise Focal Points

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Here you will find descriptions of the Energy Efficient Universal Design Elements. Certainly, choosing to stay in a lifelong home requires considerable thought and preparation. The following  elements, in addition to being beautiful, and functional also can provide cost savings.

1) Electrical, Lighting, Safety and Security-

Light switches by each entrance to halls and rooms, light switches, thermostats and other environmental controls placed in accessible locations no higher than 48 inches from floor.

Clear access space of 30 inches by 48 inches in front of switches and controls, rocker or touch light switches, high-tech security/intercom system that can be monitored, with the heating, air conditioning and lighting, from any TV in the house, pre-programmed thermostats.

Of course, if you are anything like the research team here at The Sage Companion, you also will appreciate a home that is wired for computers.

2) Flooring - Smooth, non-glare, slip-resistant surfaces, interior and exterior -bamboo and recycled hardwoods- (Remove throw rugs)

3) Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning -(HVAC)

Everyone can appreciate an HVAC system that is designed so that filters are easily accessible. We look for energy efficient HVAC units, and we still like windows that can be opened for cross ventilation, and plenty of fresh air!

4) Energy Efficient Home Features

In-line framing with 2 by 6 studs spaced 24-inch on center.

Air-barrier installation and sealing of duct work with mastic.

Reduced-size air conditioning units with gas furnaces.

Mechanical fresh air ventilation, installation of air returns in all bedrooms and use of carbon monoxide detectors.

Energy efficient windows with Low-E glass.


5) Reduced Maintenance/Convenience Features- Inside and Out!

Easy to clean surfaces

Central vacuum

Built-in pet feeding system

Built-in recycling system

Video phones

Intercom system Low-maintenance exterior (vinyl, brick)

Low-maintenance shrubs and plants

Deck, patio or balcony surfaces are no more than ½ inch below interior floor level if made of wood

Other Ideas:

A separate apartment for rental income or future caregiver.

A Flex space or room that can used as a nursery or playroom when the children are young and as a home office later; if combined with a full bath, this room could also be used for Aging-in-PALACE©.

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CHECKLIST

Click the link above, or use the "onward" arrow to  look at  how  to plan for building or adding on universal design elements  into a lifelong home to make it BOTH functional and beautiful.

Discover the benefits of choosing and incorporating functional modifications and helpful technology to "spruce up" your home.

See a handy checklist.

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