It’s an idea whose time has come — almost.
A house that lasts a lifetime, if anyone stays put that long anymore.
The concept is called universal design. And the Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University anticipates the concept not only will catch on soon but could become commonplace in 10 or 15 years. Most of the know-how and technology exists.
The concept is a home that grows and evolves with the owners, meeting their changing needs when they begin having children, become empty-nesters and, finally, need a place that can accommodate a walker or wheelchair and even live-in help.
Broader than accessible design, which targets people with disabilities, universal design acknowledges that people differ in size, age and ability. The goal is to make the home environment convenient for various generations, to eliminate barriers and increase accessibility for persons with physical limitations without inconveniencing residents who have a typical range of function.
Homes that were convenient when their residents were 50 can cause problems as people age and diminishing abilities make daily routines more difficult. When people use walkers or wheelchairs, for example, hallways suddenly become too dark and narrow, bathrooms too cramped and cabinets too high. The whole house becomes dangerous.
Universal design, which can be camouflaged in luxury, offers children the freedom to do for themselves and older people the ability to remain in their homes despite the increasing challenges of age.
But despite the increasing need for barrier-free housing as the population continues to age and the fact that manufacturers are offering universal-design products and furnishings, the philosophy has been slow to take hold with builders and home buyers.
Universal design hasn’t yet gained universal appeal. People try to make do because they’re afraid of the stigma of looking different.
A house featuring universal design doesn’t have to announce that an older or disabled person lives there. Good design for people of all ages and capabilities can be virtually invisible.
And what may be a necessity for some residents can be an added convenience for others.