Current Trends in Universal Design

The popularity of the universal design concept is rising constantly among interior designers, re-modellers, builders, and homeowners. The concept is all about making products, spaces, and aesthetics that support the lifestyle, activities, and circumstances of people they are being designed for. It is also about being both functional and visually appealing for people of all ages. An increasing number of homeowners now appreciate the aging-in-place concept. 

Here are the top trends in universal design:

·         Homeowners are interested in ways to create a level entry, with a focus on more open plans with clear floor space that makes maneuvering easier. Today, more and more people seem to be appreciative of intelligent design that improves accessibility and ease of use. 

·          Now, many universal design products are designed as smart for everyone alike, including seniors, kids, and those with limited mobility. More importance is being laid on products that benefits are designed to make tasks simpler for people of all ages. This eliminates the need for changes later. People are losing interest in wall cabinets, while preferring storage alternatives within easy reach.

·         Homeowners seem more interested in plans that include a master suite on the main floor, unlike the traditional two-story concept.

·         Home appliance manufacturers seem to have shifted to designing products that are safe, convenient, and comfortable to use, without sacrificing beauty.

·         One of the most popular trends in universal design is making the bathroom, from shower to lighting, a safe place for all. In keeping with the trend, manufacturers are coming up with both functional and appealing bathroom furnishing and fixtures, countertops, and designs that provide homeowners more options and flexibility to enhance their experience. There are bathroom designs that permit easy accessibility for both foot and wheelchair traffic. Grab bars have become quite a hit with homeowners today, as they coordinate well with faucets and fixtures while also doubling as functional and decorative pieces.

·         Night lighting concept in the bathroom seems to have wooed homeowners of all ages, helping anyone getting up in the middle of the night to easily navigate without assistance. Homeowners are requesting bathroom designs that include a seating option to perform some of the tasks at hand.

·         Another universal design trend is the use of smart design in the kitchen to open space, make it safe and easily accessible for users of all ages. Today, the advent of technology and innovation in the home design industry has resulted in appliances, lighting, equipment, and accessories that are easy to use and more intuitive for users. Larger appliances seem to have shifted to drawer spaces in the kitchen, seamlessly blending into the cabinetry. As a result, appliances, such as refrigerators, microwave ovens, and dishwashers, are easier to access for users.

·         Another trend in universal design is to leave some space under countertops around the cooking area or sink for easy seated access and flexibility. Some manufacturers are coming up with adjustable height countertops for use by people of all ages and heights. Roll-out drawers and shelves are increasingly becoming a popular choice in kitchens, making it easier to reach items stored in lower cabinets.

There are plenty more universal design options available. As a designer, you must take into account the critical parameters of the client space, preferences, and budget to stay in line with the universal design trend and provide them with beautiful, efficient spaces that are not only beautiful and convenient, but also functional and safe to use.