Universal Design (UD) is coming of age. Once a home design specialty that was little known, of limited interest, and a source of embarrassment more than pride, it is attracting widespread media attention and taking on (as befits its name) almost universal appeal -- and with good reason. The concept emerged years ago out of the need to make homes safe and accessible for the elderly, the handicapped and the very young. Some of the design options were good-looking, but others seemed institutional. Today, there are so many stylish, beautiful, good-sense universal-design options that choosing them has become a "why not?" rather than a "why?" decision.
Universal Design for the Home features a blend of beautiful projects, creative ideas, and substantive planning information. Highly visual, the book features projects showing room contexts, as well as detail shots. The mix of projects encompasses small and large houses; one-story and multi-story houses; and ideas for general accessibility and comfort as well as some targeted more directly at handicap accessibility. There is an emphasis on remodeled projects, but new homes designed with an eye toward accessibility -- present and future -- are included as well. Chapters cover the spectrum of accessible home planning, from room arrangements to kitchens, baths, entries, and exterior areas. The book displays fresh, inspiring design ideas as well as must-have, good-sense solutions, such as wider doorways. Basic specifications, how-to tips, and other technical content are featured throughout the book in easy-to-find boxes and sidebars.
Wendy A. Jordan is an award-winning writer and editor with expertise in residential remodeling and home building. She is the author or coauthor of ten books, senior contributing editor of Professional Remodeler magazine, and a regular contributor to HGTVpro.com. She has written numerous articles on remodeling subjects for Better Homes and Gardens special-interest publications.
