A universal design-build project is appealing to all users. When correctly applied, any home area will be accented universally with stylish function and appears virtually invisible. Bathrooms, kitchens, family rooms, and bedrooms will all benefit the homeowner once the principles of Universal Design are applied. Examples of increased usability provided by Universal Design include wider doorways and hallways, enhanced lighting, non-slip flooring, contrasting colors within rooms, more accessible electrical controls and devices, curb-less showers, lever door hardware, more pull-out shelves, and drawers over cabinet doors, varying cabinet top heights, and water faucets and controls operable by a single hand or closed fist. Be advised, Universal design ideas do not strictly deal with accessibility or Aging in Place design. They do not implement precise ADA standards, but offers flexibility to add accessories now and later to those planning or the end user. 

David L. Traut, CAPS (1636580), the president and owner of T-Square Company, is accredited in Universal Design in the United States and Australia and has written many papers on the subject. David not only practices integrating Universal Design in his local design/build projects, but he acts as a consultant directing customers who live out of his service area. He has now published a book covering how Universal Design overcomes today's problematic living situations within traditional homes due to their association with status-quo building concepts. Additionally, Universal Design offers a common-sense gateway for increasing accessibility and adaptability in future homes. T-Square Company in Austin, Texas has been offering design/build accessibility projects to their clients incorporating the principles of Universal Design for over twenty-five years. They specialize in Universal Design Ideas. 

Universal Design construction or inclusive construction is used when a homeowner is smartly preparing for future life changes and want to remain in their existing home. The most significant advantage of using this innovative concept is that it smoothly prepares a home for Aging in Place. By gradually applying elements of Universal Design during periodic home remodeling projects, those specific home areas affected are Age in Place ready without being noticed until needed. The concept provides various human performance characteristics for people using spaces within their homes, including well-integrated usability features. These adaptations have a broad market appeal to everyone for achieving ease of use, safety, and convenience, accommodating an inevitable reality. The effects of a disability, aging and disease are tempered because adaptability is built into the design. The reality is that all people exist along a continuum of human performance as per their traits and characteristics, regardless of their age. A universal approach to design considers that everyone has varying degrees of ability and disability rather than someone who is either fully functional or disabled.

 David L. Traut, CAPS, the owner-president of T-Square Company has published a book entitled "Age in Place at Home :Adapting the Home Environment for All Generations". The book is available through Amazon. This book covers identifying and overcoming common accessibility shortcomings found within a traditional home. Within it's pages, David takes you through a home's interior showing you how and where to apply Universal Design aspects in every room. Since Universal Design seamlessly segues into Aging in Place needs, it is a how-to book worth reading. Incorporating Universal Design principles into your home facilitate future Aging in Place goals, while comfortably addressing the diverse needs of all ages and mobility levels living within your home at any time. This book is a great reference for aging homeowners, parents of special needs children, homeowners moving in their elderly parents, and multi-generational living situations. Always remember, home accessibility is not exclusively age-related, but it must be appropriate for those needing it the most.

Universal Design construction and Aging in Place home modifications are available through T-Square Company in SW Austin, Texas. Each universal design/build project is customized to the homeowner's needs. Call 512-444-0097 today to prepare for the accessible second chapter of your life while remaining safe and secure in your existing home. T-Square Company will design and build an adapted living environment customized around your abilities. Whether your project concerns home modifications, an accessible addition or wing, or new construction, they can help you increase your accessibility. T-Square Company has over three decades of building and remodeling experience practicing as a disability contractor for people with special needs. They want to help their clients be as self-sufficient and independent as possible by offering handicap accessible floor plans. Let them show you how to increase safety and accessibility within your living environment.

After so long a time of blogging, soap box deliveries, and conversations with customers and other builders concerning the importance of Universal Design in the future of our home building industry, others have listened and agreed. David was humbled to find this article published in the Austin American Statesman. He takes pride in the fact that people are beginning to see the importance of this very forward-thinking design concept because it just makes good sense.  May this article help to propel the needed universal building movement forward.

The trend toward 'universal design' in homes
Tuesday, Jan 15, 2019 @ 3:57pm
By David Wilfong

Simple adjustments like a sideways opening oven can make life a lot easier for a person in a wheelchair. | Jofre Essley / Flickr

For many years disabled people faced challenges at every corner of public life. Stairs, rough ground, or even just reaching objects on a shelf created obstacles at inopportune times. Then the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) came into play. Wheelchair ramps and handicapped restrooms became commonplace in common spaces, and the result has been an improved quality of life for millions.

Then there’s the subject of home design. Homes have been modified for many years to meet the needs of the disabled, but now there is a new concept of “universal design,” which means homes being built for all needs from the beginning, even if there is not currently a disabled person living there.
“Along with aging in place, universal design is becoming more of a household term,” says T-Square Company (14141 Highway 290 West, Suite 800 in Austin) in is online blog. “Essentially, it’s about building or modifying places and spaces—both public and private—to accommodate people of all ages and abilities. More than just an architectural concept, universal design is a win-win for sandwich generation boomers caring for aging parents and their children at home, for grandparents raising grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and for all who are facing the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other chronic diseases. Whether your family needs the support now or down the road, universal design features are a good long-term investment for the home itself.”

The trend toward 'universal design' in homes
Tuesday, Jan 15, 2019 @ 3:57pm
By David Wilfong

Human problems must be solved using correct design changes. The principles of Universal Design solve accessibility issues for the most significant number of people. Special needs children, people who have become seriously injured, people living with a debilitating disease, people with sensory limitations or intellectual limitations, and last but not least, the people who are planning to stay in their homes for as long as possible while Aging in Place all benefit from accessible homes. The need to provide for disabilities during elder construction or home modifications for special needs children empowers us to create environments wherein people can function effectively. As our society evolves away from institutionalized care, editing and making a home more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing for children, older adults, and their visitors benefits the comfort and lifestyle of the entire family. By the way, how are you planning for your future when it concerns editing your existing home which may no longer fit your family's evolving needs?

Let's start by defining what is meant by a home edit intended to accentuate an accessible home. First of all, it's main purpose is to increase organizational skills and to reduce clutter which promotes home safety and lifestyle trends. It produces a home that is more visually appealing, efficient, and functional. Going further, the identification and removal of a home's architectural barriers using Universal Design home modifications completes the need for safety and independence promoting a healthy living environment. Forward-thinking homeowners, in turn, experience a better quality of life from the benefits of a home edit. Finally the accessible home stands as the defined course for a Universal Designed home. In these edited accessible homes, performing as a Universal Design contractor, T-Square Company in Austin, Texas identifies a home's architectural barriers and removes them during a design/build remodel to increase safety and independence.  Accessible homes of Austin, or anywhere else for that matter, provide homeowners with a means to stay healthy, independent, and safe. People exhibiting any form of disability can live comfortably as well as fully functional individuals.

Tweet and understand this fact of life!  Accessible homes will be needed by everyone at some uncertain time within their life. This edit or change can be prompted for ourselves, a family member, or a visitor. This action defines the Aging in Place concept and its associated CAPS accreditation, a nationally registered credential offered through the NAHB.  Its function is to keep people in their homes longer and provide safety and independence to all homeowners. What is more, Universal Design segues seamlessly into Aging in Place.

Because everyone ages differently and has different needs and wants over time, a universal solution providing a design for all is needed. The factors that constitute the Aging in Place market for individuals is based on their genetic makeup and lifestyle, including their choices chosen while living and their living environment. These factors have brought about the need for Universal Design. This process is the design of products, services, and environments usable by as many people as possible regardless of age, ability, or situation avoiding future adaptation or specialized alterations. It provides the most significant safety and access for home guests or occupants and is undetectable when done well. Since so few homes share the accessibility offered by Universal Design, to satisfy the needs of a particular household member brought about by an accident, an illness, or simply the aging process, there will always be a need for customized and prudent accessibility features.  A seasoned CAPS-accredited remodeling professional has the ability to accomplish this desire by producing a truly safe and functional design. This same competent design/build home remodeling company that understands and practices Aging in Place home modifications should accomplish the work according to the principles of Universal Design ensuring your family's safety and accessibility. Certified Aging in Place specialists are listed in Washington on the NAHB CAPS website.

The concept of the accessible home has evolved beyond the basic grab bars and ramps to one in which accessibility is built into the basic design.  Universal Design makes living in a home easier for people of all ages and abilities.  Accessible design is beautiful and functional and never needs to have any institutional appearance.  As our aging baby boomer population ages, the need for accessibility in the home is becoming ever more critical. Our new way of viewing the basic home in our society coupled with our antiquated architecture is giving way to a revolution in home design. Ordinary homeowners with extraordinary challenges can partner up with CAPS design professionals, architects, and their own families to create homes to restore capabilities, independence, and grace to daily living.

Most recently, architects and designers, with the help of CAPS professionals, have been concentrating on revising home interior design basics. The obvious outcome is slowly we are creating design principles and strategies that accommodate the full range of human capability rather than only the fully-functional part of society. This field of flexible or inclusive design is called Universal Design and its goal is to create easily accessible living and working spaces without exclusion to anyone. Instead of appearing as a hospital extension, the thoughtful new designs are appealing, stylish and comfortable for everyone; not just the elder or severely disabled among us. Therefore, the world of boundaries and barricades is beginning to lessen while we overcome the nationwide problem one home at a time. This is a testament to the senior and disabled population demanding equal access to their homes.

The ADA rules came about in 1990, but unfortunately the ADA rules do not apply to the private residential market. However, these rules can be used as a guide for better accessibility in private homes. Seniors and disabled homeowners must depend on the knowledgeable CAPS certified private sector of builders and remodelers to remedy the housing shortcomings. They will supply the recommended aging in place home modifications. Universally, every home should be accessible to all inhabitants and their visitors regardless of their age, size, or physical abilities. Caring for someone with special needs is a unique and sometimes lifelong challenge. Whether it’s a child born with a disability, someone who has suffered an unfortunate accident or medical event causing them to lose abilities they once had, or an older family member in declining health needing assistance with daily life, the work of a special needs contractor can help make things easier for both the affected individual and their caregivers.

Accessible Bathroom Modifications In Austin

What are the most important home modifications for seniors and the disabled to increase their quality of life? Here is a list of considerations for Aging in Place.

• Replacing door knobs with lever devices.
• Widening doorways and hallways.
• Increasing lighting, especially around stairs and work areas.
• Installing curb-less showers.
• Installing grab bars, especially in wet areas.
• Installing taller comfort-height toilets.
• Installing ramps to overcome level changes.
• Installing lever-controlled faucets.
• Installing hand-held shower devices.
• Adding a shower bench.
• Replacing flooring with any non-skid type.
• Utilizing smart home devices like electric door openers and remote light switches.
• Undergoing kitchen modifications to increase comfort and safety.
• Making bathroom modifications to increase safety and usability.
• Installing a stair lift or vertical platform lift.

T- Square Company located at 14141 Highway 290 West, Suite 800 in Austin, Texas is an industry leading accessible, universal, certified Aging in Place and VA approved Specially Adapted Housing home builder and remodeler. T-Square offers design/build projects for both totally accessible homes from the ground up or complete handicap modifications for existing homes to Age in Place. Be aware, traditional home builders and remodelers do not consider or understand the needs of the disabled or elderly. They deal mainly with the two thirds of our society without disabilities or special needs. They do not have the knowledge or experience required to think out of the box when creating a special needs home. It requires a trained and educated accessible home builder or contractor to visualize special needs modifications for special people.

T-Square Company will design and build you an adapted living environment which is completely customized around your abilities. Whether your project concerns home modifications, an accessible addition or wing, or new construction derived from a handicap accessible floor plan they can help you increase your accessibility. David Traut, the president/owner, is CAPS certified (1636580) and has over three decades of building and remodeling experience practicing as a disability contractor for special needs. He wants to help his clients be as self sufficient and independent as possible. Let David show you how to increase the safety and accessibility within your personal living environment.

By the way, David has recently published a book entitled "Age in Place at Home: Adapting the Home Environment for All Generations". It is available on Amazon and stands as a reference book for increasing home accessibility through Universal Design.

 Contact T-Square Company today at 512-444-0097 so we can show you how to begin a new accessible chapter in your lifetime.

Human problems must be solved using correct designs. The principles of Universal Design solve accessibility issues for the most significant number of people. Special needs children, people who have become seriously injured, people living with a debilitating disease, people with sensory limitations or intellectual limitations, and last but not least, the people who are planning to stay in their homes for as long as possible while Aging in Place all need accessible homes. The need to deal with disabilities during elder construction or modifications for special needs children empowers us to create environments wherein people can function effectively.  As our society evolves away from institutionalized care, making a home more comfortable for children, older adults, and their visitors can immediately benefit the comfort and lifestyle of the entire family. How are you planning for your future when it concerns your home?

Let's start by defining what is meant by an accessible home.  Accessible homes of Austin or anywhere else provide homeowners with a means to stay healthy, independent, and safe. They, in turn, experience a better quality of life. In these accessible homes, as a Universal Design contractor, any architectural barriers have either been removed during remodeling or were never a part of the design for increasing accessibility. The accessible home stands as the defined course for the Universal Designed home. People with disabilities can live comfortably and safely as well as fully functional individuals.

  Tweet and understand this fact of life!  Accessible homes will be needed by everyone at some uncertain time, whether for ourselves, our family members, or our guests.  This defines the Aging in Place concept and its associated CAPS accreditation, a nationally registered credential offered through the NAHB.  Its function is to keep people in their homes longer and provide safety and independence to all homeowners. What is more, Universal Design segues seamlessly into Aging in Place.

Because everyone ages differently and has different needs and wants, a universal solution acting as a design for all is needed. The factors that constitute the Aging in Place market for all individuals are based on their genetic makeup and lifestyle, including their choices while living and their environment.  These factors have brought about the need for Universal Design. This is the design of products, services, and environments usable by as many people as possible regardless of age, ability, or situation without needing adaptation or specialized alterations. It provides the most significant safety and access for home guests or occupants and is undetectable when done well.  Since so few homes share the accessibility offered by Universal Design, to satisfy the needs of a particular household member brought about by an accident, an illness, or simply the aging process, there will always be a need for customized accessibility features.  A CAPS-accredited remodeling professional will accomplish this by producing a truly functional design. This same competent design/build home remodeling company that understands and practices Aging in Place home modifications in Austin should accomplish the work to fit the Universal Design and ensure your safety and accessibility.  Certified Aging in Place specialists is listed in Washington on the NAHB CAPS listing.

The concept of the accessible home has evolved beyond the basic grab bars and ramps to one in which accessibility is built into the basic design.  Universal Design makes living in a home easier for people of all ages and abilities.  Accessible design can be beautiful and functional and never needs to have any institutional appearance.  As our aging baby boomer population ages, the need for accessibility in the home is becoming ever more critical.  Our new way of viewing the basic home in our society and our antiquated architecture is giving way to a revolution in home design.  Ordinary homeowners with extraordinary challenges can partner up with CAPS design professionals, architects, and their own families to create homes to restore capabilities, independence, and grace to daily living.

Universal Design Construction or inclusive construction is used when a homeowner is smartly planning for life changes within their home. The most significant advantage of using this innovative concept is that it smoothly prepares a home for Aging in Place. By gradually applying elements of Universal Design into periodic home remodeling projects, those specific home areas are Age in Place ready without being noticed until needed. The concept provides various human performance characteristics for people using spaces within their homes, including well-integrated usability features. These adaptations have a broad market appeal to everyone for achieving ease of use, safety, and convenience, accommodating an inevitable reality. The effects of aging and disease are tempered because adaptability is built into the design. The reality is that all people exist along a continuum of human performance as per their traits and characteristics, regardless of their age. A universal approach to design considers that everyone has varying degrees of ability and disability rather than someone who is either fully functional or disabled.

A universal design-build project is appealing to all users. When correctly applied, any home area will be accented universally with stylish function and appears virtually invisible. Bathrooms, kitchens, family rooms, and bedrooms will all benefit the homeowner once the principles of Universal Design are applied. Examples of increased usability provided by Universal Design include wider doorways and hallways, enhanced lighting, non-slip flooring, contrasting colors within rooms, more accessible electrical controls and devices, curb-less showers, lever door hardware, more pull-out shelves, and drawers over cabinet doors, varying cabinet top heights, and water faucets and controls operable by a single hand or closed fist.  Be advised, Universal design ideas do not strictly deal with accessibility or Aging in Place design. They do not implement precise ADA standards, but it offers flexibility to add accessories now and later to those planning or the end user. 

Universal Design construction and Aging in Place home modifications are available through T-Square Company in SW Austin, Texas. Each universal design/build project is customized to the homeowner's needs. Call 512-444-0097 today to prepare for the accessible second chapter of your life while remaining safe and secure in your existing home. T-Square Company will design and build an adapted living environment customized to your abilities. Whether your project concerns home modifications, an accessible addition or wing, or new construction, we can help you increase your accessibility. We have over three decades of building and remodeling experience practicing as a disability contractor for people with special needs. We want to help our clients be as self-sufficient and independent as possible by offering handicap accessible floor plans. Let us show you how to increase safety and accessibility within your living environment.

David L. Traut, CAPS (1636580), the president and owner of T-Square Company, is accredited in Universal Design in the United States and Australia. He has written many papers on the subject and is in the process of finishing a book called Age in Place at Home: Adapting the Home For All Generations. The book covers how Universal Design avoids today's problematic living situations by traditional home's association with status-quo building concepts. Universal Design offers a common-sense gateway for increasing accessibility and adaptability in future homes. It will be available soon from Amazon.

   After so long a time of blogging, soap box deliveries, and conversations with my customers concerning the importance of Universal Design in the future of our home building industry, others have listened and agreed. I was humbled to find this article published in the Austin American Statesman. I take pride in the fact that people are beginning to see the importance of this very forward-thinking design concept.  May this article help to propel the needed universal building movement forward.

The trend toward 'universal design' in homes
Tuesday, Jan 15, 2019 @ 3:57pm
By David Wilfong

Simple adjustments like a sideways opening oven can make life a lot easier for a person in a wheelchair. | Jofre Essley / Flickr

For many years disabled people faced challenges at every corner of public life. Stairs, rough ground, or even just reaching objects on a shelf created obstacles at inopportune times. Then the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) came into play. Wheelchair ramps and handicapped restrooms became commonplace in common spaces, and the result has been an improved quality of life for millions.

Then there’s the subject of home design. Homes have been modified for many years to meet the needs of the disabled, but now there is a new concept of “universal design,” which means homes being built for all needs from the beginning, even if there is not currently a disabled person living there.
“Along with aging in place, universal design is becoming more of a household term,” says T-Square Company (14141 Highway 290 West, Suite 800 in Austin) in is online blog. “Essentially, it’s about building or modifying places and spaces—both public and private—to accommodate people of all ages and abilities. More than just an architectural concept, universal design is a win-win for sandwich generation boomers caring for aging parents and their children at home, for grandparents raising grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and for all who are facing the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other chronic diseases. Whether your family needs the support now or down the road, universal design features are a good long-term investment for the home itself.”

The trend toward 'universal design' in homes
Tuesday, Jan 15, 2019 @ 3:57pm
By David Wilfong

While it may not be possible for every older adult to live independently in their existing home forever, there are many modifications that can be made to the home to increase safety and make it more functional for the homeowners to remain in their own homes longer. By gradually implementing home alterations that support aging in place, today’s seniors maintain their independence, and in the long run, may save a substantial amount of money on senior living.

More seniors are opting to age in place than ever before. This trend is driven in part by the rising costs of long-term care, coupled with the rapidly growing senior population as the Baby Boomer generation ages. This particular generation is enjoying a more active, vibrant lifestyle than all other previous generations.  Increasing technology and the wider availability of personal services, such as home meal delivery, are making it easier for seniors to remain in their own homes independently. However, aging in place is not for everyone, especially when major disabilities are involved.

As with any successful endeavor, You must establish a reasonable plan of action to age in place. This action will involve the input of all parties associated with the homeowner(s). The participants include caregivers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, extended family members, and any other professional medical personnel. Steps taken to move in a positive direction include: 

1. Take note of your personal abilities and any difficulties you have moving around your home within specific areas.
   
   
2. Seek out a professional assessment of your home provided by a CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialist)member. This way you know that you are in good hands because sometimes the renovations required to accommodate a senior or any disabled person, regardless of age, are no easy task and instead take a lot of time, knowledge, and effort.
3. If you live in a multi-story home, combine the main rooms for activity on the first floor. If this isn't possible, entertain the idea of installing a stair-lift, or better yet, an elevator in your home.
   
   
4. Widen all doorways to 36-inches, and include pocket doors in certain areas to limit architectural barriers caused by swinging doors. Make sure there is at least one no-step entry into the house. Install lever-style door hardware when possible throughout the home.
    
5. Install a slip-resistant floor throughout your home using wood flooring, cork, rubber, or porcelain tile. Be mindful of the chosen flooring's hardness in case of falls. Carpet offers too much resistance when using any mobility device causing tripping, falls, and instability. Ensure all transitions when changing floor materials are as smooth as possible and below 1/2 inches in height.
   
   
6. Take note of any lighting issues producing dark areas in any room. Add layered lighting throughout the home to increase safety.
   
   
7. Reduce the clutter in all rooms and provide a clear five-foot turning radius in every room.
   
   
8. Reduce the number of doors on cabinets opting for full-extension pull-out shelves or drawers.
   
   
9. As for the bathroom, provide a walk-in or roll-in shower with grab bars on all sides versus a garden tub. A hand-held and fixed shower head provides options for the user or caretaker. A roll under vanity is great for wheelchair use or applying makeup from a seated position. A comfort height toilet associated with grab bars reduces the discomfort of deep knee bends. 
   
   
10. For the kitchen, make it as adaptable as possible to suit the needs of child helpers or granny in her wheelchair. Offer varying cabinet heights and work surfaces. Plan for the shortest work triangle formed by your main sink, refrigerator, and stove locations. Raise your dishwasher 9-12 inches above the floor making it easier to load and unload for everyone.
    
    
11.  Last, but not least, comes the laundry. Install side-swinging doors of opposite swings for the washer and dryer enabling you to simultaneously access both machines from the middle. Don't forget to set the machines on a pedestal to raise them above the floor, in case you ever find yourself using a wheelchair.
    
    

T-Square Company, located in Austin, Texas offers complete design/build Aging in Place Services to its clientele. David L Traut, the President, and owner of T-Square Company is national CAPS certified and has been doing successful accessibility remodels, additions, and construction for over 30 years. Some of our clients include HUD, the VA, and many private homeowners. Contact us today to see how T-Square Company can help you solve issues to streamline your home accessibility to Safely and Comfortably Age in Place in your existing home. 

Universal design is the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. Some universal design/build ideas just make good sense. Once you bring them into your home, you'll wonder how you ever lived without them. Universal Design isn’t just for the elderly or the permanently disabled. As Americans age, they’re beginning to realize that their homes need to accommodate future life changes. Consumers are more cognizant today of the benefits of a universally designed home, but they may not realize it can be beautiful as well as functional. Everyone can use universal design! It doesn't matter if you are young or old. You could be short or tall, healthy or ill. You might have a disability or you may be a star athlete. Because of universal design ideas, people who are very different can all enjoy the same home. And that home will be there for all its inhabitants even when their needs change.

Try to envision building a house as a young adult so that you can live in comfort while you age no matter what your basic physical needs require. This adaptable and inclusive design home contains wide doorways and hallways that can accommodate both a stroller and a wheelchair or walker. There is a wide-open feeling throughout the house's main living areas. The bathroom, kitchen, and living area do not restrict moving about by anyone. There is blocking behind the finished walls to accommodate secure grab bar installations when needed. Carefully chosen towel racks in the kitchen double as grab bars as you become unsteady from lack of balance. All the entryways from the front door to the shower entrance are smooth to prevent tripping from high thresholds. All doors and faucets are controlled by a lever or other graspable hardware. This universally designed home is a barrier-free design without looking modified and is accessible to everyone no matter their age, size, or capability of movement. This home is accessible to everyone from your father to your son.

Universal design ideas do not strictly deal with accessibility or aging in place design and do not implement precise ADA standards but it does offer flexibility to add accessories now and later to those planning ahead or to the end-user. It also provides for a wide range of human performance characteristics for the way people use spaces within their homes including well-integrated usability features. These adaptations have a broad market appeal to everyone for achieving ease of use, safety, and convenience accommodating a certain reality. The reality is that all people exist along a continuum of human performance as per their personal traits and characteristics regardless of their age. A universal approach to design takes into account that everyone has varying degrees of ability and disability rather than someone is either fully-functional or disabled. A universal design/build project is appealing to all users. When correctly applied, any area of the home is accented universally with stylish function and is virtually invisible. The functionality of the home never calls attention to any of its inhabitants. It also segues seamlessly into Aging in Place. 

If you have decided to stay in your existing home as you age, Aging in place home modifications are available through T-Square Company in Austin, Texas using the principles of Universal Design. We are one of the premier universal design/build contractors in Austin. We hold certifications in the U.S. and Australia. Each universal design/build project is customized to fit any and all homeowner's personal needs. T-Square Company will design and build you an adapted living environment completely customized around your abilities. We have over three decades of building and remodeling experience practicing as a disability contractor for people with special needs. We want to help our clients be as self-sufficient and independent as possible by offering handicap-accessible floor plans. Let us show you how to increase safety and accessibility within your personal living environment. Call 512-444-0097 today to begin to prepare for the accessible second chapter of your life while remaining safe and secure in your existing home. Whether your project concerns home modifications, an accessible addition or wing, or new construction we can help you increase your accessibility using our Universal Design/build experience.

David L. Traut, President, and Owner, CAPS 1636580 (Certified Aging in Place Specialist)

It appears that after so long a time spent blogging, soapbox deliveries, and conversations with my customers concerning the importance of Universal Design in the future of our home building industry others have listened and are in agreement. I was humbled to find this article published in the Austin American Statesman and take pride in the fact that people are beginning to see the importance of this very forward-thinking design concept.  May this article help to propel the needed universal building movement forward. You can read the article for yourself.

The trend toward 'universal design' in homes
Tuesday, Jan 15, 2019 @ 3:57pm
By David Wilfong

Simple adjustments like a sideways opening oven can make life a lot easier for a person in a wheelchair. | Jofre Essley / Flickr
For many years disabled people faced challenges at every corner of public life. Stairs, rough ground, or even just reaching objects on a shelf created obstacles at inopportune times. Then the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) came into play. Wheelchair ramps and handicapped restrooms became commonplace in common spaces, and the result has been an improved quality of life for millions.

Then there’s the subject of home design. Homes have been modified for many years to meet the needs of the disabled, but now there is a new concept of “universal design,” which means homes being built for all needs from the beginning, even if there is not currently a disabled person living there.

“Along with aging in place, universal design is becoming more of a household term,” says T-Square Company (14141 Highway 290 West, Suite 800 in Austin) in an online blog. “Essentially, it’s about building or modifying places and spaces—both public and private—to accommodate people of all ages and abilities. More than just an architectural concept, universal design is a win-win for sandwich generation boomers caring for aging parents and their children at home, for grandparents raising grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and for all who are facing the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other chronic diseases. Whether your family needs the support now or down the road, universal design features are a good long-term investment for the home itself.”

Physical limitations affect many more people than the daily users of walkers and wheelchairs. Many members of our society experience a need for elder construction and disability remodeling having significant problems in dealing with their home environment. Today's conventional building standards conflict with most people's accessibility when you consider our created architectural barriers concerning cabinetry and door opening widths, individual strength, range of motion, movement,  manual dexterity, balance, and coordination. Once the demands of our built environment exceed their capacities we become excluded from a room or even the entire home. The building world must work in unison to be sure the entire living environment meets basic needs in addition to affordability and structural integrity for the consumer and homeowner. This includes both the home and the components within the home being accessible to all inhabitants. Privacy, sense of belonging, sense of control, and the sense of safety and security make up the quality of life for any home and should be considered for any design.

The concept of successful aging has become increasingly important as senior citizens begin to dominate the population. An active engagement in life through participation in social and productive activities is one component of successful aging. The built environment directly impacts the engagement profiles of older adults so it is necessary to provide environments designed to suit the needs of aging adults. Of all the design theories that attempt to accommodate the aging process, Universal Design may be the most desirable option as it provides built environments that benefit everyone. Universal Design is a promising voluntary philosophy that requires increased attention from designers and builders participating in Aging in Place. Taken as a whole, it is evident that the application of Universal Design into the built environment is a positive step toward successful aging.

The new evolving concept known as Universal Design for home remodeling is catching on nationwide and has been for several years as a sign of the times. Universal Design principles used in building or remodeling make a home more accessible to all regardless of their mobility or adaptive abilities. Furthermore, the evolution of new products used for disability home modifications is making those homes more accessible and has finally come about in the remodeling industry. These new advances in accessible home remodeling in Austin not only keep the living environments safer but will not compromise the home's aesthetics. In fact, there are many benefits to using Universal Design techniques, including potential ease of use by aging family members, added resale value, and the fact that you'll be creating a space that can be used by anyone who visits your home, regardless of their range of abilities. Universal Design offers a clear path for Aging in Place within any home.

Simple Universal Design updates for Aging in Place home modifications and handicap accessibility can include adding grab bars or handrails throughout the home, adding a seat within the roll-in shower, lowering upper cabinets and countertops, adding non-slip flooring, widening hallways or installing stairlifts, and widening doors.  You might also consider lowering light switches and thermostats and installing easier-to-use doorknobs. You should try to provide a clear barrier-free path or accessible route to the most visited areas of your home as recommended by the ADA. Remember that more open space gives room for maneuverability while using any mobility aid required.

When mobility becomes an issue for any homeowner or family member, regardless of age, the question arises concerning physically moving to a different home on one level with at least a bath that is more accessible. Austin handicap remodeling can help in preparing for one of those highly likely events involving someone in your home needing room modifications for even a short time while recovering from surgery is surely a smart move. Solving Aging in Place issues will soon become the number one challenge concerning the present obsolete housing inventory in our country. Our present-day obsolete homes now inhabited by the baby boomer generation will slowly and increasingly raise their outdated and obsolete ugly heads and expose their true lack of accessibility to those very people inhabiting them. The situation will only become ever more expanding in time. When these homes were previously purchased, they represented an absolute castle in the world of their owners in which to prepare for a day and they also acted as a retreat from life's tough interactions. They housed our families, our memories, and our stuff.  They represented a place where we could be ourselves.  Our homes have always been exempt from any and all of the accessibility regulations that have been put in place since 1968 when our Viet Nam veterans were returning home. 

Let's face it, accessible homes are needed by all of us at some time in our lives even for a short time.  This is true whether it's for ourselves, a family member, or a guest. The need is certainly not driven by age but is a result of life's experience sometimes requiring wheelchair remodeling. Any family living with a disability among any of its generations within its group can always benefit from additional home accessibility. 

Everyone ages differently and has different needs and wants.  The factors that constitute the Aging in Place market for all individuals are based on a person's genetic makeup, their lifestyle including the choices they have made while living their life, and their environment. These factors have brought about the need for universal design principles.  This is the design of products, services, and environments that are usable by as many people as possible regardless of age, ability, or situation without the need for adaptation or specialized alterations.  It provides for the greatest safety and access for any home guests or occupants and is undetectable when done well. Since so very few homes share the accessibility offered by Universal Design, to satisfy the needs of a particular household member brought about by an accident, an illness, or simply the aging process there will always be a need for customized accessibility features.  This will be accomplished by a CAPS accredited remodeling professional producing a truly functional design. This same competent home remodeling company that understands and practices accessible home modifications in Austin should carry out the work to fit the design and ensure your safety and accessibility. The criteria for home accessibility are not common knowledge among builders. It is acquired and practiced knowledge.

The National Association of Home Builders, in partnership with the AARP and Home Innovation Research Labs, created the CAPS program, which includes training and education on the technical, business management, and customer service skills essential to compete in the fastest-growing segment of the residential remodeling industry--home modifications for Aging in Place.  David L. Traut, CAPS owner of T-Square Company in Austin, Texas is one of the select group of professionals nationwide to earn the Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) designation more than a decade ago, identifying him as a home remodeler and builder with the skills and knowledge necessary to remodel or modify a home to meet the unique needs of the older population, disabled owners or their visitors. We generate handicap accessible floor plans for our clients with special needs. Our design/build projects have helped countless homeowners through the VA, HUD, and the private sector. The home modifications we offer will in turn increase safety and independence for all involved as they go through life.

For additional information about the CAPS program, visit nahb.org/CAPS.  For more information about T-Square Company, visit www.tsquareco.com or call 512-444-0097.

The number one safety hazard for elderly or disabled people of any age is negotiating level changes both outside and within the home--steps at the entry, stairs between floors, curbs to step over when entering the bath or shower, and being able to access patios, decks, and terraces. When Universal Design is correctly incorporated into a home’s layout, these flexible houses accommodate the needs of their owners and their visitors even as those needs evolve over time. Barrier free homes are functional and comfortable as well as accessible to everyone.

Visitability or the lack thereof begins at the curb for every home. This term refers to how easy it is for all people coming by to pay a visit or stay with the homeowner regardless of their physical abilities. Occupants and visitors are capable of entering an accessible bathroom located on the same floor representing the visitability of the home. Ideally, the entry into the house is through a 36 inch wide door having an ADA threshold to create a no step entry.  Entrance is obtained using an easily graspable lever style lock.

The accessible entrance is a great place to begin an accessible route for most homes. Once inside the structure a new set of problems concerning accessibility are discovered along the extended accessible route if the entire first floor is not on one single level. The designated accessible route continues into all of the most used rooms increasing accessibility. All swinging doors are minimally 36 inches wide using Universal Design along the accessible route producing a clear 32 inch wide opening when the door is opened to ninety degrees. Sliding, pocket, and bi-fold doors require less operating approach space because the door is better contained along the wall in which it is mounted.

With increasing age or following a temporary health setback, simply maneuvering around inside the home is increasingly more difficult. This designated route includes a 5 x 5 foot clear turning space required for wheelchairs in the main living area, kitchen, the bedroom, and one bathroom. The selection, placement, and design of doors and doorways influence a wide range of people. The location of the doorways affects furniture placement and usable space within the associated room. This in turn affects the clear floor space and usability of the living environment for someone confined to a wheelchair utilizing the accessible route.

    Traditionally bathroom vanities were constructed so the finished cabinet top was 30” AFF (above finished floor). This meant that taller people had to bend over and stand away from the sink in order to use it. This puts added stress on the lower back and legs diminishing the comfort factor. Typically bathroom vanities are 21" deep and approximately 29" tall. The depth is not a problem but most folks would prefer a universal design height of 34". Universally, sinks shouldn't be mounted higher than 34 inches from the floor to the top of the cabinet top for an under mount or drop in model. The sinks should not exceed six inches in depth and should be installed within three inches from the front of the overhanging cabinet top edge. The ADA vanity cabinet or even a simple wall hung sink should have a knee clearance below of 27 inches high and be at a minimum 32 inches wide by 11-25 inches deep. The choice of sink styles depends on the personal preference of the user. Be sure the lavatory controls are easily controlled with lever or paddle handles and are capable of being operated with one hand and not requiring tight grasping, pinching, or pinching of the wrist. Knobs, discs, or ball type handles can be hard to operate by anyone with soapy hands and more so by someone having an arthritic condition or other ailments. The closer the sink valves can be located toward the front of the sink the better. This can be accomplished by following the curved outline of the sink.

     There are basically two styles of ADA vanities that comply with an unobstructed roll under area below the sink.  This capability has everything to do with both the water supply lines and the main waste line connecting the sink.  There must be provisions made to protect the user from being scalded when coming into contact with any one of the plumbing pipes serving the sink.  These connecting pipes may become heated merely by the water passing through them creating a problem of scalding the user especially if they are unable of feeling sensations.  The open type model should always receive both waste and supply insulating jackets applied directly to the pipes providing protection for the wheelchair user.  The closed model concealing the pipes will be equipped with a removable face or panel board covering the pipes.  This pipe concealing panel must be installed at the correct angle.  This allows for the needed unobstructed legroom required for the  user.  The vanity can extend beyond the sink but the area containing the sink is required to have this roll under capability which is 27" tall and 32" wide.   This section of the vanity top must not be any taller than 34 inches above the finished floor with the sufficient lower clearance mentioned above.  Clear unobstructed reach distances around the counter top area must be observed at 24 inches.  Any motion controlled sensors integrated into the various dispensing devices and/or plumbing fixtures throughout the bathroom present a true hands free benefit to all the bathroom users.  If these aren't in the budget then at least wrist handles used for controlling the faucet can be incorporated into the design of the vanity.  Bathroom vanities with 34" universal height cabinet tops and open knee spaces are taking over the marketplace.  These new residential vanities do not need to look institutional.  They can be designed like any other piece of fine furniture.

Recommended Clear Dimensions And Requirements

     Sinks shouldn't be mounted higher than 34 inches from the floor to the top of the cabinet top for an under mount or drop in model.  The sinks should not exceed six inches in depth and should be installed within three inches from the front of the overhanging cabinet top edge.  A rear drain is recommended to have the proper clearance when rolling under the vanity.  The ADA vanity cabinet or even a simple wall hung sink should have a knee clearance below of 27 inches high and be at a minimum 30 inches wide by 11-25 inches deep.  A 9" high clear kick area (by 6" deep) at the floor should be maintained for a full height cabinet and be approximately ten inches deep according to the cabinet depth. Remember twenty four inches is the maximum reach distance while sitting in a wheelchair.  Be sure the lavatory controls fall within this range and are easily controlled being operated with one hand and not requiring tight grasping, pinching, or pinching of the wrist. 

Clear Floor Space

     To assure a clear floor space the lavatory must be installed at 24" from any side wall measuring from the center of the sink.  The distance from one sink to another if using a double lavatory layout should be at least 30" center to center.  In the case of wall hung freestanding sinks the minimum distance between them should be 4" between the sink edges.

     A clear floor space of 30 by 48 inches must be provided to access all bathroom fixtures and these areas can overlap one another.  The adjoining and overlapping wheelchair turning space should be an unobstructed sixty inches in diameter.  A wheelchair turning space could utilize a T-shaped space considering a sixty inch square having two 12"x 24" areas removed from each corner of the square from the same side. This will be a 36" wide base with two 36" wide arms.  T-shaped wheelchair turning spaces can include on one arm.  In this case the clear width at the cabinet should be 36" to use the space as part of the T-turn.

     Let's face it, accessible homes are needed by all of us at some time in our lives.  This is true whether it's for ourselves, a family member, or a guest.  The need is certainly not driven by age but is a result of life's experience.  Any family living with disability among any of the generations within it's group can always benefit from additional accessibility.   This will in turn increase safety and independence for all involved as they go through life.

     Aging in place home modifications are available through T-Square Company. We are a certified aging in place (CAPS) specialist.  Each design/build situation will be customized to fit your personal needs. Call 512-444-0097 today to begin the accessible second chapter of your life while remaining safe and secure in your existing home. CAPS #1636580