Universal Design Introduction: Housing for the 21st century is changing. More than ever, it is necessary to design living space that meets the needs of all people, young, old, short, tall, disabled and able-bodied. There's an exciting design principle called Universal Design that helps to achieve this objective. Using Universal Design and applying principles for affordable building techniques results in a product that serves a broad range of people.

Billy Howell is a Fredericksburg Virginia builder who has been able to incorporate these principles into a very successful business model.

Narration: Hi. My name is Billy Howell. I own and operate Howell Franklin Construction. Several years ago, I became interested in building places for people with disabilities which led me to learn about Universal Design. My company has built several of these apartments now, and through this work, we have discovered some simple tactics that may be helpful to other builders interested in achieving this all inclusive design approach ... affordably.

This is Lafayette Square, one of the first places we built. It's a twelve unit complex with six universally designed units. I'll point out some of the design components we applied and explain how we were able to build this complex affordably. Later on we'll go into more detail.

Notice this parking lot and the elevated curbs. Its typical to most apartment complexes. Unfortunately, entryways like this are not manageable for everybody. To resolve this we learned how to eliminate curbs [as shown here] ... and save money. Every curb cut costs about $500, so if you can avoid them, you save money that can be used to build a more usable site.

Automatic door openers have improved dramatically in recent years. They're not as costly as you may think. This one was reasonably priced and works much like a garage door opener. There's a nine volt battery inside the press unit that activates an electric motor and opens the door.

Inside the apartments, we used an open design that's easy for anyone to navigate. This type of layout also cuts down on the amount of supplies needed. Each unit has about 650 square feet.

We have tips for every room of the unit which we'll pass on to you shortly. In building this project we concentrated on the seven most important principles of Universal Design. Let's take a look at them...

Paths of Travel

Narration: Here's a picture of Abby I & II. We eliminated the curbs and used the grading to control water run off. We saved money and made a better, more useable site - not just for disabled people, but for everyone. The use of open design helped provide an accessible route into and through the apartment and saved money on building materials too. We made sure that doors were thirty-six inches wide. Pre-hung thirty-six inch doors are the same price as thirty-two inch pre hung doors at most building supply houses. Use them everywhere, even on closets and utility rooms. An accessible path of travel begins with an accessible parking spot then continues to the sidewalk and into the home.

A "path of travel" refers to the route that is used to get to and through a building or facility. When considering the accessibility of a path of travel, the needs of persons with mobility impairments and visual impairments need to be considered.

A. Accessible Paths
The path of travel must be at least 36 inches wide to accommodate the width of a wheelchair and the arc of a cane used by a person who is visually impaired or blind it should be smooth and as level as possible without hazards or obstructions.

Access Board - http://www.access-board.gov/ufas/ufas-html/ufas.htm#4.3

B. Cross Slopes
Excessive cross slope is a major barrier to travel along sidewalks for pedestrians who use wheelchairs and scooters, pedestrians who use walkers and crutches, pedestrians who have braces or lower-limb prostheses, and those with gait, balance, and stamina impairments. Curb ramp cross slope in new construction should not exceed 1:48 (2%). Where street crossings are planned at mid-block or at T-intersections on sloping roadways, careful engineering is required to blend curb ramp, landing, and crosswalk at the vehicular way. In alterations, it may be necessary to accept a steeper cross slope because of the difficulty and cost of correction.

Access Board - http://www.access-board.gov/ufas/ufas-html/ufas.htm#4.8
Federal Highway Administration - http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/sidewalk2/sidewalks205.htm
Technology News - http://www.ctre.iastate.edu/pubs/tech_news/2005/mar-apr/accessible_ped.htm

C. Sidewalks & Curb Cuts
Curb ramps are transitions between roads, parking areas, access aisles, and sidewalks that allow pedestrian route to
remain accessible to people.

Access Board - http://www.access-board.gov/ufas/ufas-html/ufas.htm#4.7

D. Slope and Rise
Ramps are built for people who can't use stairs, or need a gentler, less stressful way to change levels. A successful home ramp building project requires careful planning, because compromises may have to be made among man competing needs – of the person with a disability. The least possible slope shall be used for any ramp. The maximum slope of a ramp in new construction shall be 1:12. The maximum rise for any run shall be 30 in (760mm). When built to provide an accessible entrance, the slope of the ramp should be as small as possible.

Access Board - http://www.access-board.gov/ufas/ufas-html/ufas.htm#4.7
Able Data - http://www.abledata.com/abledata_docs/ramps.pdf
Design NCSU - http://www.design.ncsu.edu/cud/pdf_files/rampbooklet296final.pdf

E. Protruding Objects
The corridor space is an accessible route and like all accessible routes and maneuvering areas, it must be free of hazardous protruding objects that project from walls and posts and are dangerous to someone who is inobservant or a person with a visual impairment.

Access Board - http://www.access-board.gov/ufas/ufas-html/ufas.htm#4.4

F. Dumpsters
Dumpsters must be on an accessible route with easy access to the door on at least one dumpster in each such public and common use site facility.

G. Accessible Public and Common-Use Areas
Covered multifamily dwellings with a building entrance on an accessible route shall be designed in such a manner that the public and common use areas are readily accessible and usable by handicapped persons.

Fair Housing First - http://www.fairhousingfirst.org/

Common Use Areas

Narration: All common areas must be accessible. By using the principles of Universal Design, you achieve accessibility without creating a medical look in these areas. We use front loading washers and dryers in the laundry areas. We raise all the outlets to a reasonable height. When we use stairs, we make sure they meet the elements of universal design. Hallways are a little wider. Office areas are fully accessible with different levels of counter heights where they are used. We try to take into account the needs of all our customers.

Covered housing must have accessible and usable public and common-use areas. Public and common-use areas cover all parts of the housing outside individual units. They include -- for example -- building-wide fire alarms, parking lots, storage areas, indoor and outdoor recreational areas, lobbies, mailrooms and mailboxes, and laundry areas.

HUD - http://www.hud.gov/library/bookshelf09/fhefha6.html
USDOJ - http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/taman3.html

A. The Americans With Disabilities Act, ADA recognizes and protects the civil rights of people with disabilities and is modeled after earlier landmark laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race and gender. The ADA covers a wide range of disability, from physical conditions affecting mobility, stamina, sight, hearing, and speech to conditions such as emotional illness and learning disorders. The ADA addresses access to the workplace (title I), State and local government services (title II), and places of public accommodation and commercial facilities (title III). It also requires phone companies to provide telecommunications relay services for people who have hearing or speech impairments (title IV) and miscellaneous instructions to Federal agencies that enforce the law (title V). Regulations issued under the different titles by various Federal agencies set requirements and establish enforcement procedures. To understand and comply with the ADA, it is important to follow the appropriate regulations.

USDOJ - http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adahom1.htm

B. Assembly Areas - If provided in the facility or at the site. Assembly and associated areas are required to be accessible.

Access Board - http://www.access-board.gov/ufas/ufas-html/ufas.htm#4.33

C. Laundry Rooms
If provided in the facility or at the site, at least one of each type of appliance should be provided in each laundry area. Front load washers are preferred.

D. Rental Offices – Rental offices and sales offices for residential housing are by their nature are open to the public and are places of public accommodation that must comply with the ADA requirements in addition to all applicable requirements if the Fair Housing Act.

Useable Doors and Windows

Narration: Doors and windows are an important part of universal design. We've already shown you press pad doors. As we mentioned, the cost is coming down so they can be installed in even the most affordable developments. Door thresholds are an important consideration, so we've provided you some information about those also. Windows come in all sorts of construction, from cranks to double hung. We've given you some examples to consider when planning a project. For more information, you can find additional suppliers at accessva.org.

A. Doors 36" vs. 32"
Doors should be at least 32" inches wide; 36 inches wide would be better. The direction of the door swing should not interfere with someone in a wheelchair or walker. Offset hinges can let a door swing out of the way to provide even more clearance space. Peepholes can be installed at wheelchair height in front doors. The view window should allow someone to use it without getting to close to the peephole. A second peephole installed at standard height will allow for non-wheelchair users who have difficulty bending to view outside.
Dynamic Living - http://www.dynamic-living.com/offset_hinge.htm
Adaptive Access - http://www.adaptiveaccess.com/offset_hinges.php

B. Automatic Door Openers
Getting in and out of your front door is the first and most important consideration. If you can get through all doors, interior and exterior, plus the bathroom door, you're well on your way. Automatic door openers can be used with all door types, including sliding or swinging doors and they do lock.

Access Board - http://www.access-board.gov/ufas/ufas-html/ufas.htm#4.12
USA Tech Guide - http://www.usatechguide.org/techguide.php?vmode=1&catid=160
Ageless Design - http://www.agelessdesign.com/ate-autodooropeners.htm
Access Ability - http://www.access-ability.com/door.html

C. Lever Door Knobs
Doors can let you into a room or a home. They can also keep you out. Think about this the next time you finish a messy outdoor project. You want to get inside and clean up as fast as possible. But the round door knob on your back door stands between you and your kitchen sink. You can't turn that knob with hands that are covered with garden dirt or engine grease. Many people are throwing away their round door knobs. That's because they are so hard to use. Young people with small hands can't grab them. Older people with weak hands can't turn them These people are using lever handles instead. You don't have to twist or turn lever handles. You don't even have to grab them. All you do is press down on the handle's flat surface and push. The door opens. It takes only the touch of a closed fist or a finger. You can even open doors with an elbow if your hands are messy or full of packages.

Lowes - http://www.lowes.com

D. No Step Entrances
This does not mean a ramp. Use a gradual slope (1:20) to connect the walk to the entrance porch or stoop. Earth fill can be used to replace steps and make a smooth connection between walk and porch.

E. Thresholds
Thresholds at doorways shall not exceed 3/4 in (19 mm) in height for exterior sliding doors or 1/2 in (13 mm) for other types of doors. Raised thresholds and floor level changes at accessible doorways shall be beveled with a slope no greater than 1:2.

H. Windows
Windows that are taller and closer to the floor can provide comfortable views to people who are in wheelchairs as well as people who are standing. A tandem latch allows a person to access both the upper and lower latches using only the lower latch.


Kitchen:

Narration: We've spent a lot of time rethinking the kitchen and bathroom. In the kitchen, we used roll under sinks. The industry has now come out with rear drain sinks at no additional cost. That allows the plumber to move the drains back against the wall. This eliminates the need for expensive and unsightly pipe insulation, letting us hide the pipes behind a facade. We can now do the same in the bathroom. Now available is an entire line of universally designed appliances that are very economical. We use a standard drop in range with a side oven. This allows us to have roll under convenience and a much more useable oven space. We use a standard side-by-side refrigerator and lower cabinets, which are also now widely available. Drawers are often more useful than shelves, but here again, the industry has introduced some very economical slide out shelves.

The shape of the kitchen is an important feature in the planning of your kitchen. The most important thing to remember is,
whichever shape your kitchen will have, try to plan your kitchen as efficient as possible.

A. L-Shaped Kitchens
The L-shaped kitchen will give a lot of workspace and storage space below the worktop will not be a problem. Also the walking distance between the main zones in your kitchen will be minimized. Another big advantage of the L-shaped kitchen is that one of the corners of your kitchen will be free to use as a dining area. The problem area in an L-shaped kitchen is often the space under the worktop in the corner.

Design Kitchens - http://design.kitchensatlanta.com/shapes.htm
Medinorm - http://medinorm-kitchens.com/product_pics.html
Ability Center - http://www.abilitycenter.org/webtools/links/adaresources/usablekitchen.pdf

B. U-Shaped Kitchens
U-shaped kitchen will give you a lot of work- and storage space. It can, however, become a bit of an enclosing space if the wall cupboards run all around the room. Also the floor area will be a lot less than in any other shape of kitchen. Consider this when choosing this shape of kitchen. If this type of kitchen is used in a bigger room, then one of the legs of the U can be used as a breakfast bar.

Design Kitchens - http://design.kitchensatlanta.com/shapes.htm
Ability Center - http://www.abilitycenter.org/webtools/links/adaresources/usablekitchen.pdf

C. Flexible Countertops
Adjustable height counters can have several different applications in an adaptable kitchen. Adjustable counter segments, some with sinks and disposal units, some with cook tops, adjustable in 2" increments (28" - 42") allows in-kitchen work for wheelchair user and people of all heights.

Ability Center - http://www.abilitycenter.org/webtools/links/adaresources/usablekitchen.pdf

D. Upper Cabinets
Upper Cabinets are most useful when they are positioned 12 to 15 inches above the counter, or 48 inches above the floor. Since we will have more than one cook sharing the kitchen, cabinets installed with adjustable heights will satisfy everyone's physical needs. A wide range of special accessories are available to customize kitchen cabinets.

Kraft Maid - http://www.kraftmaid.com/whykm/index.cfm?navigationid=16000

E. Lower Cabinets
Kraft Maid - http://www.kraftmaid.com/whykm/index.cfm?navigationid=16000

F. Kitchen Storage
Kitchen storage should be provided in locations that are convenient to work areas. Storage options for wheelchair users may be more limited because of lower reach capabilities and loss of base cabinets at knee space locations. Base cabinets can be equipped with sliding shelves that make access easier for items that are stored in the back of cupboards. Lazy-Susan corner cabinets increase storage capacity and provide easier access to cabinet interiors. The interior faces of cabinets and pantry doors can be equipped with narrow storage racks that make stored items easier to visually locate and access. Careful selection of cabinetry can increase kitchen accessibility without the extra expense of custom cabinets.
Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=howTo&p=Improve/OrgKit.html&rn=RightNavFiles/rightNavHomeOrganization
HGTV - http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/dc_design_kitchen/article/0,1793,HGTV_3375_3591234,00.html
Kraft Maid - http://www.kraftmaid.com/whykm/index.cfm?navigationid=16200

G. Roll Under Access
Roll-under countertops, like roll-under sinks, allow for a person in a wheelchair or standard chair to more easily work at the countertop in a seated position.

Ability Center - http://www.abilitycenter.org/webtools/links/adaresources/usablekitchen.pdf
Kraft Maid - http://www.kraftmaid.com/whykm/index.cfm?navigationid=16200

H. Kitchen Sinks (Rear Drain)
The best sink location is a straight counter section that accommodates a front approach with kneespace or a parallel approach without kneespace. A rear drain pushes the plumbing to the rear of your sink cabinet. What was once a jungle full of pipes is now open to roll under or have for storage.

Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productList&function=showAll&catalogId=C050700

Home Depot
http://www.homedepot.com/prel80HDUS/EN_US/diy_main/pg_diy.jsp?CNTTYPE=PROD_META&N=2984+5178&IR
C=2&searchText=sinks&CNTKEY=misc/searchResults.jsp&BV_SessionID=@@@@0566184574.1121798335@@@
@&BV_EngineID=ccejaddfekjgeidcgelceffdfgidgln.0
Kitchen Aid - http://www.kitchenaid.com/catalog/product.jsp?src=SINKS&categoryId=285&productId=295
Ability Center - http://www.abilitycenter.org/webtools/links/adaresources/usablekitchen.pdf

I. Garbage Disposal

Installation of a garbage disposal helps with kitchen cleanup tasks. Its location, however, can
restrict knee space under the sink. To avoid this problem, the disposal can be offset to one side. A better alternative, where space permits, is to provide a small disposal sink next to the primary sink.

Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productList&catalogId=T050700

Home Depot -
http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US/diy_main/pg_diy.jsp?CNTTYPE=PROD_META&pos=p03&MID=9
876&com.broadvision.session.new=Yes&CNTKEY=Products_2%2fAppliances
Ability Center - http://www.abilitycenter.org/webtools/links/adaresources/usablekitchen.pdf

Appliances

Narration: Finding the right appliances can be tricky, but it can also mean the difference between having a useable product or not. We have provided a wide array of vendors for you to explore. Also, you'll find accessible and universally designed appliances on the web at accessva.org. This is a great resource designed and managed by VHDA - all sorts of information is available, from appliances to building materials.

Refrigerators - "Side-by-side" refrigerators are most appropriate for accessible kitchens. This unit provides both refrigerator and freezer storage at similar reach levels, enabling wheelchair users to locate and remove items more easily. Narrower doors on this refrigerator model are also easier for a wheelchair user to operate. If an "over-and-under" model is selected, at least a portion of the freezer space, as well as controls, should be located below a height of 4'6". Whenever possible, refrigerators should be located where doors can swing back a full 180 degrees when opened. This allows wheelchair users to position themselves more closely to refrigerator shelves.

Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productSection&catalogId=M050605&bc=s

Home Depot - http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US/diy_main/pg_diy.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@@@06 73911942.1121806111@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccdladdfekjgffecgelceffdfgidgnj.0&CNTTYPE=PRO D_META&CNTKEY=Products_2/Appliances&MID=9876&pos=p03

Dishwashers - Raised height dishwashers installed like wall ovens at a height around 18 inches off the floor, can be easier to use for tall people or for people who have difficultly bending and people in wheelchairs. Dishwashers are typically located next to the kitchen sink because used water drains through the disposal into the plumbing waste lines. Unlike other appliances, dishwashers have a standard fixed height and must be installed under a 36" high counter. An ideal dishwasher location is at the open end of a counter, which allows a wheelchair user to pull alongside the unit and easily reach the racks inside.
Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productSection&catalogId=T050100&bc=n
Dynamic Living - http://www.dynamic-living.com/dishwasher-ada-compliant.htm

Home Depot - http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US/diy_main/pg_diy.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@@@06 73911942.1121806111@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccdladdfekjgffecgelceffdfgidgnj.0&CNTTYPE=PRO D_META&CNTKEY=Products_2/Appliances&MID=9876&pos=p03

Sears - http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/search.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&vertical=APPL&cat=Refrigera tion&subcat=Side-by-Side+Refrigerators&displayTarget=Subcategory

Cook top – A cook top provides wheelchair users the option of a knee space below the burners. For cook tops an electric unit with a smooth ceramic surface allows cooking containers to be easily slid on and off burners in order to minimize spills. Cook top operating controls should be either front- or side-mounted. Rear controls create a dangerous condition where individuals must reach across burners to operate the cook top. Control knobs and switches should be configured to allow one-hand operation and should not require tight grasping, inching, or twisting of the wrist. Locating the cook top near a sink with a handheld sprayer to make it easier to fill pots on the cook top with water. Eliminating the cabinet below will allow wheelchair access, but be sure to properly insulate under the cook top to avoid accidental burns.

Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productSection&catalogId=M050317&bc=s

Home Depot -
http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US/diy_main/pg_diy.jsp?CNTTYPE=PROD_META&
pos=p03&MID=9876&com.broadvision.session.new=Yes&CNTKEY=Products_2%2fAppliances

Ability Center - http://www.abilitycenter.org/webtools/links/adaresources/usablekitchen.pdf
http://www.accessibleconstruction.com/services/bathrooms/36aa.html

Sears - http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/search.do?BV_SessionID=@@@@0440686246.1122908994@@@@&BV_ EngineID=ccggaddfflhkjjgcegecegjdghldgfm.0&cat=Cooking&subcat=Cooktops&displayTarget=Subcate gory&vertical=APPL

Ranges - A stove that is safe for someone who cooks while seated or when using a wheelchair has controls on the front edge of the range surface. This allows turning the heat down or off without having to reach over hot burners. Control knobs and switches should be configured to allow one-hand operation and should not require tight grasping, inching, or twisting of the wrist. For range tops an electric unit with a smooth ceramic surface allows cooking containers to be easily slid on and off burners in order to minimize spills. Locating the cook top near a sink with a handheld sprayer to make it easier to fill pots on the cook top with water.

Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productSection&catalogId=M050415&bc=s

Home Depot - http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US/diy_main/pg_diy.jsp?CNTTYPE=PROD_META&
pos=p03&MID=9876&com.broadvision.session.new=Yes&CNTKEY=Products_2%2fAppliances

Ability Center - http://www.abilitycenter.org/webtools/links/adaresources/usablekitchen.pdf

Wall Ovens - Wall ovens are more convenient for wheelchair users than conventional ovens, but spill protection must be provided. For conventional ovens, the lowered oven door provides spill protection as heated dishes are removed. For most wheelchair users a side-hinged oven door is easier to operate. This helps the wheelchair user to insert or remove items from the oven and partially protects them from spills during the process but it does not offer the same protection as a pull down oven door. Where side-hinged wall ovens are installed, a pullout shelf can be installed below the unit for spill protection and gives the user a place to sit the item they putting into the oven or removing.

Ability Center - http://www.abilitycenter.org/webtools/links/adaresources/usablekitchen.pdf

Pull Down Oven
Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productSection&catalogId=B050320&bc=s

Home Depot - http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US/diy_main/pg_diy.jsp?CNTTYPE=PROD_META& pos=p03&MID=9876&com.broadvision.session.new=Yes&CNTKEY=Products_2%2fAppliances

Side Open Oven
Frigidaire - http://www.frigidaire.com/products/cooking/built-in_ovens/electric/single/prod_GLEB27S7C.asp

K. Faucets & Handles
Lever handles allow a person to turn water on and off with the use of a fist or arm movement rather than finger
movements or grasping.

American Standard - http://www.americanstandard-us.com/ProductNew.asp?prodID=386

Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productSection&catalogId=M070250&pad=true

Home Depot - http://www.homedepot.com/prel80HDUS/EN_US/diy_main/pg_diy.jsp?CNTTYPE=PROD_META&pos=n06
& MID=9876&com.broadvision.session.new=Yes&N=2984+3116&CNTKEY=misc%2fsearchResults.jsp

Ace Hardware - http://www.acehardware.com/family/index.jsp?cp=1254880.1254995&doVSearch=no&categoryId=126082 7&page=5&pageBucket=0&doVSearch=no

ebuild - http://www.ebuild.com/guide/products/specifierresults.asp?catCode=1572&pageNum=1&sortCode=5

Universally Designed Bathroom

Narration: In the bathrooms we've tried several different ideas. Some have worked and others have been a learning experience. In most cases, we try to waterproof the entire room. Here we used a fiberglass wall-covering product from ceiling to floor. We used a dual drain and tile floor. By adding a small rubber or tile dam to retain water and sloping the floor, we can give people the option of using an enclosed shower with the shower curtain. Or if the person needs a bathing attendant, the shower curtain can be pulled back for more usable space. Flexibility is the key principle here. We make about half our baths with roll in showers and the other half with accessible tubs. We tile the entire floor and put in a center drain and a trough drain. That way if the tenant needs help bathing, the attendant can pull back the curtain and use the entire space. We generally use a pedestal style sink. We have developed these wrap around shower rods by bending electrical conduit. Also, it is possible to get vanities with pull out inserts to convert them into roll under sinks.

Since the bathroom is one of the most expensive rooms in the house as well as somewhat difficult to adapt or remodel later, it is necessary to plan for both present and future needs of all residents of the home. When building or remodeling, the bathroom should be designed around maintaining the independence of all the home's residents. It is important to remember that with proper design decisions, the home does not have to appear like an institution.

A. Bathroom Sinks
Wall-mounted, pedestal, and counter top sinks can all be used in accessible bathrooms. An individual should be
able to access the sink as well as the handles on the faucet.

Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productList&catalogId=VANITY_TOPS&bc=l

Home Depot - http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US/diy_main/pg_diy.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@@@0414088249.112292 8757@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccegaddfflljiejcgelceffdfgidgjk.0&CNTTYPE=PROD_META&CNTKEY=Super%20Categories/Indoor%20Living&MID=9876&pos=p05

Ability Center - http://www.abilitycenter.org/webtools/links/adaresources/AdaptableBath.pdf

B. Curbless Showers
These showers feature a very low or no threshold at all so users may easily walk or roll into the unit. Curb less showers provide enough space for people in wheelchairs to maneuver and enough space to have an attendant assist if necessary. Curb less showers can be used to stand and bathe in a conventional manner and may also have a built-in seat, a hand- held showers and appropriately placed grab bars for support.

NCSU - http://www.design.ncsu.edu/cud/pubs/shower%20announce.htm

Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productList&catalogId=SHOWER_FLOORS/WALLS

Home Depot - http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US/jsearch/product_map.jsp?N=2984+5194

C. Roll Under Access
For wheelchair access, vanities should be mounted as low as possible without obstructing the knee space below (typically 27" to 29"). Drawers provide more accessible storage than cabinets and can be located on either side of the basin to suit the user's preference or capabilities. The mirror should be as low as practical and tilted. The wall adjacent to the basin can accommodate an electrical outlet, towel rack, and medicine cabinet.

Ability Center - http://www.abilitycenter.org/webtools/links/adaresources/AdaptableBath.pdf

D. Grab Bars

Grab bars will provide safety and support to help you maintain balance. Grab bars are not just for the elderly or people with disabilities, everyone will benefit by making it easier to get in and out of the bathtub or shower.

Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productSection&catalogId=B060350&bc=c&category=15

Home Depot - http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US/jsearch/product_map.jsp?N=2984+5148

Ability Center - http://www.abilitycenter.org/webtools/links/adaresources/AdaptableBath.pdf

Access Ability - http://www.access-ability.com/grab.html

E. Accessible Tubs

Bathtub features such as fold down or integrated seats, built-in lifts, doors on bathtubs, soft padded surfaces, and roll-in or transfer shower modules provide accessible bathing environments that can be used by any members of the household, not just those with physical disabilities.

Kohler - http://www.us.kohler.com/designkb/designcenter/accessibility.jsp

Home Center - http://www.homecenter.com/Searchproducts.asp?Manufacturer=&Color=&Material_index=&length_index =&width_index=&PropList=Manufacturer%2CColor%2CMaterial_index%2Clength_index%2Cwidth_index%2C&sS
ortProperty=&fSortAscending=True&sFreeText=&catalog_name=HomeCenter&category_name=Bath+and+Showe r+Modules

Ability Center - http://www.abilitycenter.org/webtools/links/adaresources/AdaptableBath.pdf

F. Faucets & Handles
Lever handles allow a person to turn water on and off with the use of a fist or arm movement rather than finger movements or grasping.

American Standard - http://www.americanstandard-us.com/ProductNew.asp?prodID=386

Home Depot - http://www.homedepot.com/prel80HDUS/EN_US/diy_main/pg_diy.jsp?CNTTYPE=PROD_META&pos=n06 & MID=9876&com.broadvision.session.new=Yes&N=2984+3116&CNTKEY=misc%2fsearchResults.jsp

Ace Hardware
http://www.acehardware.com/family/index.jsp?cp=1254880.1254995&doVSearch=no&categoryId=1260827&page=5&pageBucket=0&doVSearch=no ebuild http://www.ebuild.com/guide/products/specifierresults.asp?catCode=1572&pageNum=1&sortCode=5

Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productSection&catalogId=M070250&pad=true

G. Toilets
Toilet seat height varies from one individual to another, usually between 17" to 19". Toilets can be replaced with special units or raised seats can be installed. For wheelchair users who transfer, the most convenient seat height approximately matches their wheelchair seat level. Grab bars and rails installed near the bathroom toilet will help avoid injury by providing safety, additional support and balance when sitting, standing or transferring from a wheelchair or walker.

Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=212568-834-3600000.020&lpage=none
UD Homes - http://www.udhomes.com/Geberit.asp?source=udhnet

Reinforced Walls

Narration: We put reinforcement behind the drywall in the bathroom. In all of these apartments, we installed grab bars... but the important thing is to make sure the reinforcement is there, in case someone needs to install them later.

Switches

Narration: We lowered light switches and raised electrical outlets. Doing this incurs no additional cost and is much more usable for everyone. We used paddle switches and even lowered the switches on the range hood. We lowered the electrical box so it would be accessible to everyone.

A. Light Switches
Light switches shall be mounted no higher than forty-eight (48) inches above the floor. Rocker light switches are larger
and easier to find and use than standard light switches.

Home Depot - http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US/diy_main/pg_diy.jsp?CNTTYPE=PROD_META&CNTKEY =misc%2fsearchResults.jsp&BV_SessionID=@@@@2040195064.1121713219@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccd eaddfejkjghjcgelceffdfgidglo.0&MID=9876

Lowes - http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=70633-334-C7513W-SP-L&lpage=none

Electrical Outlets
Each electrical plug or other receptacle shall be at least eighteen (18) inches from the floor.

B. Environmental Controls
Thermostats shall be mounted no higher than forty-eight (48) inches above the floor.

C. Switches in Tight Places

Other Information

Narration: Knowing where to find vendors that sell affordable universally designed appliances and building materials is an important part of this technique. We have made a companion brochure available for you. The brochure provides contact information for several sources. We have also developed a web page at accessva.org that lists additional suppliers and much more information on building affordably and with universal design in mind.

Sponsor websites

Virginia Housing Development Authority
http://www.vhda.com
Department of Rehabilitative Services
http://www.vadrs.org/
Assistive Technology Loan Fund Authority
http://www.atlfa.org/