Accessible Remodeling: Features to Include in Your Project

Remodeling should involve more than just enhancing a property’s aesthetic appeal. It should also aim to improve the functionality of the rooms and amenities, thus increasing the comfort and convenience of the occupants. Accessible remodeling is a type of renovation project focused on improving the quality of life of people with special needs or disabilities.

Here are the features you should include in an accessibility remodeling project.

Bathroom

Bathrooms can be hard to access for people with mobility problems, such as those using a wheelchair or crutches. When remodeling your bathroom, always consider ease of access and safety for them. A good example would be to construct doorways that are wide enough for wheelchair users to pass through them. You can also install lever-style doors that open outwards to create more space in the bathroom and to make it easier for other people to access the room in case of an emergency. Lever doors are also easier to open than doorknobs, which can be difficult to grip if a person has weak arm strength.  

Kitchen

The kitchen also needs to be accessible so that older family members or individuals living with disabilities can still live independently and prepare food themselves. There are several things you must keep in mind during kitchen remodeling, such as safety, ease of access and better mobility. Keep the occupants safe by installing countertops and cabinets with rounded edges. These will reduce the risk of accidents. Allow ease of access by lowering the countertops and the power outlets. Touch-sensitive faucets should also be added. Furthermore, you can improve mobility by creating enough space for wheelchairs and walkers to fit in. You should also select anti-slip flooring.

Other Accessibility Features

There are other accessibility features that you can have constructed or installed in other areas of your property. Wider hallways are always a good idea since they will allow occupants to maneuver around the house more easily. Grab bars are also necessary in areas where the occupants need to sit or lay down, such as bathrooms and bedrooms. Then, consider replacing all doorknobs with levers and handles to make it easier for everyone to open and close doors.

If you’re planning home additions, Cottage Industries, Inc is a reputable contractor that focuses on providing the best value for each remodeling project. With our excellent designers and remodeling specialists, you can be assured that your project is in the hands of industry experts. To request a consultation, call us at (610) 293-9750, or fill out our contact form.