The versatile elevator has a myriad of uses

The roots of Universal Design run deep into the fabric of this country originating with the return of the troops after World War II. There was an immediate awareness that homes needed to be adapted to the needs of those with mobility impairment. Early efforts were the springboard for a number of concepts including "barrier-free," "inclusive," "adaptable" and more recently "aging-in-place," "visitable" and "easy living."

All of these fall under the collective label of Universal Design which focuses not only on the disabled but on the benefits to all, thus the term "universal." Reality, whether we choose to recognize it or not, is that we all face some loss of our physical abilities as we transition through life.

A number of products have been developed to make life easier for those with special needs but because of their remarkable convenience and ease of use now are embraced by the population as a whole. Some examples: garage door openers, water and ice dispensers in refrigerator doors, big-grip potato peelers, sloped sidewalks at street corners and elevated front-load washers and dryers.

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At a minimum, homes should be accessible and include at least:

• one no-step entry door
• minimum interior door widths of 32"
• adequate maneuvering space in all key rooms

Costs to achieve accessibility in new construction can be as low as $500 but the cost to remodel a similar home at a later date to provide accessibility may prove to be cost prohibitive.

Assuming accessibility, there is a myriad of options available to a homebuyer to enhance their comfort, convenience and safety including but not limited to:

• levered plumbing and door hardware
• multi-level countertops
• customized cabinetry
• curbless showers
• comfort height commodes
• lowered switch plates and raised plugs
• enhanced task lighting
• medical home monitoring
• elevators

These options are constrained only by budget and imagination.

Finally, there may be circumstances requiring unique assistive equipment, e.g., lifts, audio and visual technology.

Tapestry Custom Homes is a recognized leader in this dynamic market whether it be as a homebuilder, remodeler or consultant.