Universal Design: Integrating the spirit of accessibility throughout home design.
Universal design is a relatively new paradigm or attitude whose concept has emerged from ‘barrier free’
design, yet also appeals to a wide range of consumers. It is a broad spectrum and non-stigmatizing
solution that helps everyone – not just people with disabilities or physical limitations. Universal design
recognizes the importance of how things look.
As life expectancy rises and modern medicine has increased the survival rate of those with injuries or
illnesses, there is a growing interest in universal design. Its principals are widely accepted and preferred
among the 50+ age category who are very active, yet realize their living needs will change as they age
gracefully in the coming years. Incorporating the principles of universal design into a living environment
extends the possibility of staying in one’s home for an extended period of time. It eliminates many of the
limitations that traditional home design and construction reveal when one’s health status changes.
Universal design creates an integration of accessibility throughout a home project. It creates a total
design theme of spaces that are easy to use and provide accessibility, while at the same time being
visually attractive. Although creating compliance with the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act),
Universal design incorporates many ‘hidden’ features that make the space attractive to all segments of
the population. Comfortable flow is the recognized characteristic of universal design – not grab bars and
ill proportioned spaces, unique fixtures, or unusually large doorways leading to small bathrooms. It is not
about providing a large focus on disability; it is about providing spaces that are universally accessible.
The Knolls at Hillcrest is Montana’s first active adult lifestyle community, designed for those 55 and
better. Accessibility and the principles of Universal Design have been integrated throughout The Knolls
project through recognition of the spirit for ready accessibility – housing units that are universally more
accessible and more gracious and spacious for everyone. This integration makes accessibility almost
invisible with spaciousness throughout the project a basic amenity. Some of the universal design
features that can be found in The Knolls homes include:
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Building sites that were engineered for accessible entries and spaces for all levels of mobility
No-step entry: garage floors level with main living spaces enabling individuals to enter the home
and its main rooms without having to navigate stairs
Natural daylight throughout the home creating spaces that provide higher natural lighting levels
needed by people who are 50+
Bright and appropriate lighting – particularly under-counter task lighting in kitchen areas
Adjustable lighting control: dimmer controls throughout each home for day/evening flexibility
Unique side yards and courtyard style ‘outdoor rooms’ with total accessibility and semi-privacy
Open and wide entry areas; roof canopies allowing easy access to entries protected from weather
Open living spaces that distribute light and eliminate dark areas – creating more gradual levels of
light change that are easier on the eye
Wide interior doors and hallways creating a more gracious feel; everyone and everything moves
more easily from room to room; with extra floor space in the primary living spaces
Lever style door handles throughout
Easy to use bathrooms: comfort height toilets; ADA compliant fixtures; low-curb walk-in showers
Bathrooms, toilet areas, and showers that are accessible and can accommodate any level of
disability on a custom basis;
One-story living: primary living spaces are all located on the ground floor which is barrier free
Universal design gives you great home features you can enjoy now, and it also helps you plan
for the future. This kind of planning can help you make sure every part of your home will adapt
to your changing needs.