"Universal design is the design of products and enviroments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or special design." (Ron Mace).
Universal Design Features
Harvest Construction LLC
Seven Principles of Universal Design
- Equitable Use- The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities
- Flexibility in Use- The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities
- Simple and Intuitive Use- Use of the design is easy ot understand regardless of the user's experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level.
- Perceptivle Information- The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, reguardless of ambient conditions or the user's sensory abilities.
- Tolerance for Error- The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.
- Low Physical Effort- The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue.
- Size and Space for Approach and Use- Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user's body size, posture, or mobility. (Copyright 1997 NC State University)
When do these principles have a noticeable impact on my life? Universal design is looking at making you more efficient in your home and creating an environment where all individuals can perform daily tasks and functions with minimal to no special maneuvering. Take a simple thing like carrying groceries in from the car as an example. With a few home modifications we can eliminate the need to juggle multiple bags over to one hand or balance some bags on your knee to open the door. Now think about approaching the door on a flat level surface and manipulating a lever style handle. Small things like this and several other large picture details can make the difference between a life of frustration versus a life of freedom for anyone with a medical condition like limb weakness, motor control deficits, or a gradual onset of issues with aging like arthritis, limited range of motion, or some degree of vision loss. All of these deficits amplify the frustration, or make it impossible to perform tasks on your own without proper design and equipment. While universal design is usually thought about by those whose daily activities rely heavily on proper design, all of us benefit from universal design. Imagine not having to struggle with your mattress or couch to move it though a tight corner, door or stairs. Or have you ever wondered who in the world thought it was a good idea to put the toilet paper holder behind you on the wall. With some thoughtful planning during the design stages of your home everyday annoyances and eventually everyday limitations as you age can be avoided through universal design.All of our new home construction and home modifications apply these universal design principles
