Accessible Solutions: Residential Design and Construction

Page 1 of 4 ( 1 2 3 4 )

Most homeowners and their families who wish to purchase a single-family home have a wide range of choices. The residential real estate market includes an extensive stockpile of existing homes. Developers offer many new home models, including some that buyers can modify if they purchase before construction. Custom-built homes are a third alternative that offers buyers considerable design freedom. For wheelchair users, however, the inventory of existing accessible housing is much smaller. Because of this shortage, building a new home or renovating an existing home may often be their best alternative. If they elect to undertake such a project, it is important that wheelchair users and their family understand the residential design and construction process. Wheelchair accessibility, while it is essential and many times the impetus, is only one component of such a project. Other important considerations, for example, include the home's location, lot size, number of bedrooms, floor plans, architectural style, and the anticipated cost of any necessary construction. Construction documents include details on both materials and methods of building the project. Many accessible elements such as roll-in showers or kneespace vanities will require extra details to ensure that the finished product is usable. Designing a Project Designing an accessible home, alteration, or addition requires the skills of professionals with experience in residential design and construction. A successful project requires close cooperation between the homeowner, designer, and contractor or builder in order to identify and address the wheelchair user's specific needs. Every homeowner is unique in his or her capabilities to perform daily living activities. Homeowners are also different in their personal preferences, finances, marital status, family size, and many other factors that will affect the project's design. In many projects, homeowners attempt to save costs by minimizing design fees. This is not always prudent. Design fees are typically a good investment. Proper design can save time and money during construction. Clear design information, for example, eliminates confusion or misunderstandings that arise during construction and add expense and delay. A good design for either a new home or an addition can also add immeasurable value to the project. Professional design skills can make the difference between a competent project and a more complete project that succeeds both functionally and aesthetically. A good design does not necessarily cost more to construct and, in those cases where it is more expensive, the incremental extra cost is often a good investment. The genius in good design is solving a broad range of functional and aesthetic problems in one simple and practical solution. If your designer has knowledge of accessibility, it can be helpful; but accessibility experience should not be the deciding factor in selecting an architect or building designer. With good accessibility resource material and careful and frank discussion with the clients, an experienced architect or residential designer can meet a wheelchair user's and family's needs. Good design skills and a good personal rapport with the clients are the most important attributes to look for in an architect or building designer.

...Continued - Page 1 of 4 ( 1 2 3 4 )
Next Page >