Accessible Solutions: Kitchens

Basic work sequences can be accommodated in several different counter arrangements including U-shaped, L-shaped, and galley (straight-line) kitchens. Kitchens with island counters are a variation of one of the three basic arrangements. Of these counter arrangements, the U-shaped kitchen may be the most efficient for wheelchair users because countertop surfaces are more continuous. In this respect, the galley kitchen is perhaps the least appropriate. It is most important, however, to select an overall arrangement that functions well with adjacent rooms and exterior spaces. Wheelchair-accessible kitchens can include such features as kneespace at both the sink and at a kneespace work area, lowered countertops, and a lowered wall oven with a pull-out shelf below. Countertops Accessible kitchen design should minimize workflow disruptions and simplify kitchen tasks. The kitchen arrangement should locate appropriate counter space next to each work center. Convenient counter space is important for wheelchair users who must set items aside each time they reposition themselves. As a general rule, counter arrangements should provide the following features: • Refrigerator located next to a 1'6" (minimum) countertop. • Sink and dishwasher with a 2'0" (minimum) countertop on both sides of the sink basin. • Stove or oven/cooktop with a 2'0" (minimum) countertop on both sides of the appliance unit. For wheelchair users, countertops should be as continuous as possible so that dishes or containers can be slid between workstations. This arrangement is preferable because it is difficult for wheelchair users to move items between unconnected counters. In some arrangements, a worktable can provide additional counter space. Tables can be repositioned to suit specific activities and stored when they are not needed. If a kitchen is designed to serve the needs of a wheelchair user and an ambulatory spouse, the countertop height should be carefully considered. A standard kitchen countertop height is 36". Countertop heights for wheelchair users are typically between 29" and 34", depending on the nature of the tasks that will be performed. Another design option is to provide lower countertop sections at important locations, again, depending on the wheelchair user's needs and capabilities. Lower countertops may be provided at the sink, cooktop, or work counter. Differing countertop levels result in "stepped" counters that may complicate workflow. Countertop level changes should be minimized by consolidating lowered counters when possible. A more expensive option for accommodating the needs of both wheelchair and ambulatory users is to install electrically operated, adjustable height countertops. Kitchen sinks can be designed with kneespace to accommodate a wheelchair user. The countertop is typically lowered to 2'10". A shallow basin should be selected to increase kneespace. The drain placement and the configuration of the drain line are important considerations. Sinks and Disposals The sink, disposal, and dishwasher are the "center" of the kitchen for both food preparation and cleanup. They functionally work together and share plumbing supply and waste lines so they should always be adjacent in the kitchen plan. Kitchen Sinks - Sinks for wheelchair users should have the following features: • Clear floor space for wheelchair access (either front or parallel approach). • An appropriate sink height. • Provision for kneespace (if desired). The most important design decision regarding the sink relates to the intended users. For example, if the wheelchair user desires full access to the sink, then the design should provide a kneespace and accommodate front approach. Otherwise, a carefully located sink without kneespace can still provide an acceptable level of access for some wheelchair users.

...Continued - Page 2 of 3 ( 1 2 3 )
< Previous Page | Next Page >