The term “Universal Design” is used more and more these days when describing new homes but what does that really mean to a home buyer?
Architect Ronald Mace was the first to coin the term, using it to describe the concept of designing all products and the built environment to be both aesthetic and usable to the greatest extent possible by all people, regardless of their age, ability or status in life.
With life expectancies on the rise, this becomes particularly important for aging adults interested in aging-in-place. By purchasing a universal design home, you increase the chances of staying put longer as your mobility needs change.
One of the builders creating universal design homes in Arlington, Texas is Grenadier Homes. Their contribution to the Viridian neighborhood includes the following design features:
- Low profile thresholds for all exterior doors
- Minimum of 42″ wide hallways
- 60″ turning radius in all living and sleeping areas
- Master bath pre-blocked for future optional grab bars
- Roll-in shower
- Shower seat bench
- Lever handles on all interior doors – easier to grasp and turn
- Placement of electrical receptacles, switches, and thermostats for easy access from standing or seated positions.
- Rocker style light switches
- Front mounted controls on kitchen ranges
You can find these and other universal design features in Viridian as well as other new home communities across North Texas. Call Senior Downsizing Experts at 817-330-9235 to start your home search today!