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While the concept of Universal Design (UD) has been around since the 1960s, misconceptions still exist about the style, and the how and why of integrating Universal Design into the home are still widely misunderstood. But before we go over most common misconceptions, we are going to review the principles themselves.

The principles which were set forth in 1997, and revised in 2007, still serve as the gold standard in Universal Design. Here is a list of the Universal Design principles.

Equitable Use - Equitable use simply means that something can be used by a person, regardless of skill or ability.

Flexibility in Use - The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities and provides choice in methods of use.

Simple and Intuitive Use - When design is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level, we can refer to this as intuitive.

Perceptible Information - The design offers feedback and communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless 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, allowing user to maintain a neutral body position.

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.

Now that we know the Universal Design principles, we will explore a few of the design style’s most common myths.

- Universal Design looks generic. Many believe that a home incorporating Universal Design elements will look “cookie cutter” or like it came straight from a factory, the elements will only be available in limited colors, or will have no personality. While this may have been the case fifteen years ago, the expanded demand for Universal Design necessitates increased options so that today, myriad options exist to match any décor or color scheme.

- Universal Design will make my home look institutional. Because the most obvious reasons to begin incorporating Universal Design elements into a home are accommodating those with special needs, it can be easy to see Universal Design as an extension of the style common to hospitals, nursing homes, and other types of care facilities. However, because Universal Design is meant to accommodate everyone, elements are easily found to match the style and décor of any home.

- Universal Design elements incorporated into my home décor will stand out. Similar to worrying about an “institutional” look, many potential clients express concern that incorporated UD elements will stand out and look obvious to visitors. This is far from the truth. In fact, Universal Design, when done properly, should look and feel seamless to the user. A good designer is able to make a home universally user-friendly, remaining true to the desired décor, with the result that the Universal Design feels completely organic and nearly invisible.

It is often stated that Universal Design is simply good design, and this is absolutely true when you’re working with a trusted and knowledgeable remodeler. Whether you’re looking to add a first-floor master bedroom, undertake a complete home renovation, or upgrade to a new barrier-free custom home, AIP (Age in Place) Custom Builders has the expertise, industry knowledge, and experience to provide turn-key design-build services.

Article Source: AIPCustomBuilders.com