Remodeling Tips: Designing a Kitchen for Accessibility

Everyone inevitably grows older, and as we do, our bodies and lifestyles change. It only makes sense that our home will change with us. One of the most important rooms in your home is the kitchen. You must be able to navigate your kitchen efficiently and safely even as you age. This is why accessibility in design is so important. So whether you are planning for your golden years or accommodating older family members, designing a kitchen for accessibility can be a wise decision. When you’re ready to remodel your kitchen, contact About Kitchens & More for excellent remodeling recommendations and results. 

Why Should You Remodel for Accessibility? 

Why is designing a kitchen for accessibility important? A more accessible kitchen can provide three key benefits that homeowners desire: 

• Safety: The risk of accidents and injuries in the kitchen increases as we age. An accessible kitchen takes steps to reduce hazards and potential injuries. 
• Independence: An accessible kitchen allows homeowners to continue to live in their own homes and prepare their meals. 
• Comfort: The kitchen will remain comfortable and functional, allowing you to get the most out of your home. 

Understand Universal Design Principles

Universal design is an approach that creates spaces that are accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Keep these critical universal design concepts in mind as you remodel your kitchen: 

• Wide doorways and hallways: Ensure the doorways and paths leading to the kitchen are wide enough to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs. 
• Low-threshold entries: Minimize or eliminate steps or thresholds at entry points to prevent falling or tripping. 
• Adjustable countertops: Consider countertops that can be raised or lowered to accommodate different heights and needs. 
• Lever handles: Install lever-style door and faucet handles which are easier to grasp and use than knobs or pulls. 
• Open shelving: This allows for easier access to kitchen items and reduces bending and reaching. 

Accessible Flooring and Lighting Designs

Consider non-slip flooring with materials that provide traction and are slip-resistant to reduce slips and falls. Avoid small rugs or mats that might cause tripping. Install adequate lighting to make sure everything is well-lit, especially in work areas. Task lighting can be great for specific illumination. 

Cabinets and Storage with Easy Access

When designing a kitchen for accessibility, make sure that all items can be easily retrieved. Install pull-out shelves in lower cabinets to make reaching items in the back easier, like pots and pans. You may also use lazy Susans in corner cabinets to easily access items deep within cabinets. Keep your frequently used items at accessible heights so you don’t need to use step stools or reach too far overhead. 

Accessible Appliances and Fixtures

Finally, consider which appliances may be best for your new kitchen design. For example, side-by-side refrigerators allow easy access to the fridge and freezer, reducing reaching and bending. Wall ovens positioned at a comfortable height eliminate bending down, reducing potential burns or injury. Touchless faucets in your sink are convenient and hygienic and do not require twisting or turning of handles. 

PROFESSIONAL DESIGN AND REMODELING SERVICES FROM ABOUT KITCHENS AND BATHS

About Kitchens and Baths has the Annapolis community abuzz with excitement over our stellar home renovation services. With an approximate timeline of only three weeks and two days for project completion, we outshine the competition in our reliability. From tear-out to design, all aspects of each renovation project are handled in-house by our expert team. We ensure customer satisfaction and consistent quality for all remodeling services. Visit our showroom to meet the About Kitchens team and discuss your design goals. Our home renovation services are versatile and detail-oriented, supporting all styles, features, and rooms. While kitchens and bathrooms are our primary focus, we also channel our skills to assist home office and laundry room renovations. The sky’s the limit! Call us at 410-573-0877 or email us at aboutkitchensandbaths@yahoo.com or fill out our contact form today!