Planning

Universal Design Principles for Homeowners

Updated June 2025 — Design that works for everyone

What Universal Design Is (and Isn't)

Universal design is an approach to creating spaces and products that work for as many people as possible, regardless of age, ability, or disability — without requiring adaptation or specialized design. It is different from "accessibility" in that accessibility often means retrofitting a space to meet the specific needs of one person. Universal design creates spaces that work well for a 25-year-old and a 75-year-old, for a person carrying groceries and a person using a walker.

For homeowners, universal design thinking is valuable because: modifications made with universal design principles tend to look like design choices rather than medical equipment, they serve the whole household, and they often add rather than detract from home value.

The 7 Principles Applied to Home Modifications

1. Equitable Use: The design is useful to people with diverse abilities. Example: a curbless shower entry is safer and more elegant for everyone, not just wheelchair users.
2. Flexibility in Use: Accommodates a wide range of individual preferences. Example: an adjustable-height countertop section serves someone standing, someone seated, and a child.
3. Simple and Intuitive Use: Easy to understand regardless of experience or cognitive ability. Example: lever door handles that open with a push from an elbow or forearm.
4. Perceptible Information: Communicates necessary information regardless of sensory ability. Example: high-contrast stair nosing that's visible in poor lighting.
5. Tolerance for Error: Minimizes hazards from accidental or unintended actions. Example: pressure-balance shower valves that prevent scalding.
6. Low Physical Effort: Can be used efficiently with minimal fatigue. Example: rocker light switches instead of toggle switches; lever faucets instead of knobs.
7. Size and Space for Approach and Use: Appropriate size and space for approach, reach, and use. Example: 36-inch doorways, 60-inch bathroom turning radius.

Universal Design Features That Add Home Value

Research by the National Association of Realtors and others has identified several universal design features that buyers value and that can support home prices:

• Zero-step home entry (single-floor access)
• Wide doorways (36”) throughout
• Curbless shower with bench
• Comfort-height toilet
• Lever hardware throughout
• First-floor bedroom and full bath
• Open floor plan with wide traffic lanes

These features appeal to buyers of all ages because they represent thoughtful design. The framing matters: "curbless shower" tests better with buyers than "roll-in shower for wheelchair access."