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   Universal Design
 more...>Functional, Accessible & Adaptable>Universal Design>

Universal Design Checklist

  • Safe, functional throughout lifecycle
  • Accommodates various ages, heights, needs, abilities and changes

Visitability by Persons with Disabilities
A grade-level or ramped entry path and doorway
No steps into visiting areas and one bathroom
Minimum 32-inch-wide doorways to visiting areas
One accessible bathroom (5-foot turning circle at toilet and sink)
General Interior Features

No level changes on first story

Thresholds < 1/2 inch high 
All doorways > 32 inches wide 
Hallways, paths > 42 inches wide 

Lower electrical switches (38-48 inches from floor to operable part) 

Higher electrical outlets (18 inches from floor to plug holes) 

Rocker switches or motion sensors

Lever door handles, U-shaped cabinet pulls 

Single-lever faucet controls
Easy-to-reach A/C filter
Adjustable shelves, rods

Rounded counter and cabinet corners

Non-slip, no-glare, even flooring
Contrasting color and texture visual aids
Ample, variable light without glare, task lighting
Space planned for “just in case” elevator shaft, if two-story
Kitchen and Laundry - adaptable and convenient for various users

Appliances placed for safety and universal access

Microwave at counter height (36 inches)
Front-loading clothes washer

Cooktop controls at side

42-inch pathway clearances
5-foot clear turning circle at sink, range, refrigerator
Varied counter heights

Seated work space in kitchen (30-32 inches high)

No center stile on cabinets where knee space might be needed (sink, cooktop)

Some electrical outlets, switches on sides of counters

Roll-out shelves, baskets, drawers; easy storage access

One Bedroom, One Bathroom - more fully wheelchair accessible

On ground floor

36-inch-wide doorways, no thresholds

24-inch space on latch side of doors
Doors open outward
5-foot turning circle clear floor spaces

Bedroom has door to outside

Low windows and mirrors (maximum 40 inches above floor)

No deep pile carpet or slick, shiny flooring
Knee space under lavatory (not obstructed by cabinet or plumbing)
Reinforced walls at toilet, tub, shower for grab bars
Non-slip decorative grab bars
Higher toilet, accessible (not enclosed)
Easy-transfer shower, tub with seat or curbless shower
Single-lever bath valve, offset for easy reach

Higher cabinet toe space (9 inches)

Easily adaptable to changing needs

Return to Design for a Lifetime

Last Updated: 5/29/2011 3:23:40 PM
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Design for a Lifetime
Universal Design
 
point of contact
Evans, Audrey A.
 
institutions
LSU AgCenter