Universal Design (UD) is an approach to designing products, environments, and services to be accessible and usable by all people, regardless of age, ability, or other factors, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. It aims to create inclusive spaces and experiences that benefit everyone, including people with disabilities, the elderly, and those with temporary impairments.

• Physical Spaces: Ramps and automatic doors that benefit not only wheelchair users but also parents with strollers and delivery workers.

• Technology: Voice-to-text features, screen readers, and adjustable font sizes.

• Public Services: Accessible transportation, inclusive signage with braille and audio announcements.

Universal Design goes beyond disability-focused accessibility—it creates a more inclusive world where everyone can participate fully and independently

Principles of Universal Design

Developed by a team of architects, product designers, and engineers, Universal Design is guided by seven principles:

1. Equitable Use – The design is useful and accessible to people with diverse abilities.

2. Flexibility in Use – Accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities.

3. Simple and Intuitive Use – Easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience or knowledge.

4. Perceptible Information – Communicates necessary information effectively, regardless of sensory abilities.

5. Tolerance for Error – Minimizes hazards and adverse consequences of accidental actions.

6. Low Physical Effort – Can be used efficiently and comfortably with minimal fatigue.

7. Size and Space for Approach and Use – Provides appropriate space and accessibility for all users.

Entrances & Doorways

• No-step entryways or ramps

• Wider doorways (at least 32 inches wide)

• Lever-style door handles instead of knobs

• Smart locks or keyless entry systems

Kitchen Modifications

• Lowered or adjustable countertops

• Pull-out shelves in cabinets for easy access

• Side-opening ovens and cooktops with front controls

• Touchless or lever-handle faucets

Bathroom Accessibility

• Curb-free, roll-in showers with grab bars

• Non-slip flooring

• Comfort-height toilets

• Handheld showerheads and adjustable shower benches

Flooring & Hallways

• Non-slip, smooth flooring (hardwood, vinyl, or low-pile carpet)

• Hallways at least 36 inches wide for wheelchair access

• No-threshold transitions between rooms

Lighting & Electrical Features

• Rocker or touch-activated light switches

• Motion-sensor lighting in hallways and bathrooms

• Electrical outlets placed higher on walls for easy reach

• Smart home systems with voice-activated controls

General Safety & Convenience

• Stairlifts or home elevators

• Open floor plans with minimal obstructions

• Reinforced walls for future grab bar installation

• Contrasting colors between walls and floors for visibility

In a primary bath for example, a double sink is designed to be open below for wheelchair access. The adjacent cabinets can have handles at a height reachable from a sitting position as well as a easy to reach drawer for additional storage. The shower is curbless and equipped with adjustable features. Adjacent to the bath, across a flat threshold, is a laundry room—with low, front-loading appliances. 

Bathroom Accessibility features:

• Curb-free, roll-in showers with grab bars

• Non-slip flooring

• Comfort-height toilets

• Handheld showerheads and adjustable shower benches

Installing a grab bar is a great way to improve safety and accessibility in a bathroom or other areas of the home. They are a reliable and safe support system, reducing the risk of falls and improving accessibility.

When installing a grab bar, it’s important to determine the most effective placement based on the user’s needs. Common locations include next to the toilet, inside the shower, or near the bathtub, where extra support is often required. Additionally, the height and angle of the grab bar should be carefully considered to ensure maximum stability and ease of use, making daily movements safer and more comfortable.

In a bathroom, grab bars should be installed in several key areas to maximize safety and support.

Shower/Bathtub Areas: For the shower, grab bars should be installed inside, both near the entrance and along the shower wall. These grab bars help with balance and stability while entering, exiting, or standing. Horizontal grab bars work best for these areas. For the bathtub, grab bars should be placed on the wall adjacent to the tub to assist with getting in and out. If the bathtub has a high lip, consider adding a grab bar near the edge for additional support.

Toilet Area: A vertical or angled grab bar next to the toilet is essential for assisting individuals in sitting down and standing up more easily. Make sure the grab bar is positioned at a comfortable height that is easy to reach.

Near the Sink: If needed, grab bars can also be installed near the sink or vanity for support while standing or washing hands. This is especially helpful for individuals with balance issues or those who may need assistance transitioning from standing to sitting.

Installing grab bars in these key bathroom areas ensures maximum safety, making everyday tasks easier and reducing the risk of falls.

Grab bar installations varie depending on the needs of the individual. Quantity, shape, length, wall location, and placement height need to be considered.

Here are a few rules of thumb for where to place grab bars in your shower.

• Vertical entrance bar should go close to the shower door jamb.

• Horizontal bar should go along the side wall, 34-36 inches above the floor.

• Vertical bar on the faucet end wall should go near the faucet handles.

Hearts at Home will help determine your grab bar needs and ensure a proper installation.