Recently I have been designing homes for older clients and these later living projects have taught me a lot about sustainability and future proofing our homes.

UNIVERSAL DESIGN APPROACH -

As we age our homes must adapt to our changing needs but many of these design principles can be incorporated now in a universal design approach.

The aim of this approach is to create homes that benefit us at any age and also enable us to be independent, comfortable and maintain our quality of life in the future.

By identifying and empathizing with the problems of older people we can adapt this universal design approach to many aspects of interior design such as the following:

LIGHTING DESIGN –

To avoid glare and shadows always allow for several light sources and additional task lighting such as adjustable spotlights for reading. Allow for two-way switches by doors and beds. Internal cupboard lighting is useful to light up dark recesses.

KITCHEN DESIGN –

When designing kitchens think about the height of surfaces, shelves and cupboards so that they are within reach. The fridge could be at worktop height for easy access. Taps need to be easy to grip and turn, single levers are ideal. Drawers are more accessible than cupboards and D handles are easier to pull. Avoid cabinets over the cooker they can create shadows. Allow for seating at a prep area.

BATHROOM DESIGN -

When designing newly built bathrooms I include wall strengthening so that grab rails and shower seats can be added when needed in the future. I allow for handy shelves for toiletries in the shower, with handheld showers, shower seats and single lever taps. And I include, when possible, motion sensitive floor level lighting for night time visits.

FIXTURES AND FITTINGS -

Door handles should be easy to grab and turn, lever handles are better than round ones. For cupboard handles allow for long D handles that are easy to grip. Light switches that are simple to use and labelled can also be installed.

FURNITURE SELECTION –

Selecting quality furniture that looks good, and lasts is important. I consider functionality such as seat heights that are easy to get up from, the weight of items, are they easy to use and move around and are they in the right place for a quick rest or a landing place for objects.

HALLS and STAIRS-

I design well-lit circulation spaces such as halls, corridors and stairs and Install handrails on both sides of the stairs where possible. I specify friendly floor finishes to avoid trips and falls keep the floor smooth without too many changes in levels, inset rugs are better than thick rugs.

CONCLUSION -

By thinking about and including these universal design elements in every interior design project, I aim to create future proof homes that are applicable for us now and in the future, providing longevity, comfort and style.

HOW TO DESIGN FOR OUR FUTURE SELVES