The Art of Universal Design & Aging in Place

Season Three, Episode Nine | Transcript

As more homeowners look to build “forever homes,” the concepts of universal design, aging in place, and multi-generational living are reshaping how we think about custom home design.

In this episode of The Art of Custom, architect Jim Bujeleski and occupational therapist Tiffany Dill join Kim Hibbs to explain how inclusive design principles help create homes that are accessible, adaptable, and beautiful for people of all ages and abilities.

The conversation also revisits the story of Heath and Savannah House, a veteran family who received a custom, accessible home through Operation Finally Home. Their story illustrates how thoughtful design can empower independence and comfort today and for decades to come.

What Is Universal Design?

Universal design goes beyond accessibility. It means designing homes that are usable, safe, and comfortable for everyone, regardless of age or ability.

Key principles include:

• Inclusivity: Spaces that support all people and abilities without segregation.
• Flexibility: Rooms that adapt to different users and life stages.
• Simplicity: Intuitive controls, layouts, and technology placement.
• Safety: Clear circulation paths, slip-resistant surfaces, and accessible fixtures.
• Sustainability: Environmentally responsible materials and designs that improve health and wellness.

Universal design creates homes that feel natural and not clinical while making daily living easier for everyone.

Designing Homes That Adapt

Architects and therapists emphasize planning ahead. Small design decisions—like wider doorways, zero-step entries, or main-floor owner suites—make a home more functional for years to come.

Common features include:

• Primary bedroom suites and laundry on the main level.
• Wider hallways and doorways for mobility devices.
• Lever handles instead of knobs.
• Zero-threshold entries from garages or front porches.
• Curbless showers and open bathrooms for easy access.
• Adequate turning radius in kitchens and bathrooms.

These subtle details can turn a beautiful custom home into one that remains livable for a lifetime.

Collaboration: The Key to Success

Universal design works best when approached by a team. Architects, builders, designers, and occupational therapists each bring valuable expertise to the process.
This interdisciplinary approach ensures that the home fits not only current needs but also potential future ones such as mobility challenges, medical equipment use, or multi-generational living arrangements.

Thinking Ahead in the Design Phase

Homeowners often know they want a “forever home,” but may not know what that entails. Builders and designers should prompt questions about future needs early in planning.

• Where will the primary suite be located?
• Can the layout support main-level living?
• Are there options for an elevator shaft or stair-lift later on?
• Is the bathroom large enough for a shower chair or transfer bench?

Simple foresight prevents expensive remodels and keeps families comfortably in their homes for decades.

Trends in Accessible Design

Recent years have brought a surge of universal-design features that also enhance style and resale value:

• Curbless showers have become the top request, offering both accessibility and a modern spa aesthetic.
• Motion-sensor faucets and touchless doors improve hygiene and convenience.
• Voice-activated technology allows users to control lights, temperature, and plumbing fixtures hands-free.
• Induction cooktops offer safety for children, older adults, and individuals with sensory limitations.

These innovations demonstrate that inclusive design benefits everyone—not only those with mobility or medical needs.

The Role of Technology

Smart home technology and universal design now overlap more than ever.
Voice control, automation, and connected systems make everyday tasks easier, especially for those with limited mobility. For example:

• Automated lighting systems prevent trips and falls.
• Smart thermostats allow control from a seated position.
• Motion-activated faucets and touchless toilets improve sanitation and independence.

Technology not only enhances accessibility but also supports energy efficiency and sustainability which are two growing priorities for homeowners.

The Impact of the Pandemic

COVID-19 accelerated awareness of adaptable design. As more people began working and learning from home, families prioritized flexible layouts, home offices, and easy-to-sanitize surfaces.

Touchless fixtures, open spaces, and improved indoor air quality moved from luxury features to essentials. Health-conscious building practices and sustainability are now inseparable from universal design.

Multi-Generational Living

Aging parents, adult children, and extended families are increasingly living under one roof. Home designs now often include:

• Main-level guest suites or secondary master suites.
• Private entrances or semi-detached living quarters for privacy.
• Dual-height kitchen islands for seated and standing users.
• Removable showerheads and adjustable fixtures for all ages.

Multi-generational homes encourage connection and support while maintaining personal space and dignity.

Building Codes & Standards

Several states are developing universal design guidelines to encourage consistency in accessibility features.

Common standards include:

• 36-inch wide doorways.
• At least one zero-step entry.
• Switches no higher than 48 inches.
• Outlets placed 18 inches from the floor.
• Lever handles on doors and faucets.

These small details make homes easier to use without compromising aesthetics.

Why Universal Design Matters

Only 0.15 % of homes in the U.S. are wheelchair accessible - a staggering gap that underscores the importance of designing for inclusivity.

By incorporating universal design principles from the start, builders and homeowners can help close that gap, expand housing options, and create homes that support independence and dignity at every stage of life.

Wrapping Up

Universal design isn’t just about accessibility, it’s about comfort, safety, and connection. By planning ahead, involving a diverse team, and prioritizing adaptable features, homeowners can ensure their forever home truly lives up to its name.

Inclusive design benefits everyone and thoughtful planning today sets the foundation for independence and well-being tomorrow.