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Designing kitchens and baths with the principles of Universal Design ensures people of all ages and abilities can feel safe and comfortable in their homes. BY KIM BERNDTSON Usable Spaces for All ftentimes, incorporating Universal Design into a kitchen or bath is initially driven by a desire to accommodate a specific circumstance, such as some- one who wants to age in place, or someone who has physical challenges and needs help navigating the home. These aspects of Universal Design offer the most familiarity. They are what people usually think of when they hear the term. They are also what can create the greatest challenges when initiating a discussion about Universal Design with clients who may but turned off by the stereotype associated with the term. "They think of it only as design for people who are hand- icapped," says Dan Klappa, owner/president, MCR, UDCP, jDj lifestyle design remodel, in Greenfield, WI. Often, he believes, they may respond reluctantly with com- ments such as, "I don't need assistance," or "I don't want my home to look like a hospital." O However, the broader definition of Universal Design – cre- ating environments that can be used by everyone, regardless of age or abilities – is much more inclusive, making it an easier 'sell' to clients once they fully understand its value. It can cer- tainly include someone who uses a walker or wheelchair, but it can also include someone who may simply be carrying a full laundry basket through a hallway, or a petite person who wants to knead bread dough at the kitchen counter. These situations can be made more accommodating with Universal Design by making hallways wider and countertops shorter, respectively. "It goes so much further than ADA compliance," says Carolyn Cook, owner/designer, LiveSmart Design, in Charlotte, NC. "It really enhances design in general." "It isn't only about making a house accessible to wheel- chairs," agrees Genie Nowicki, CKD, CBD, CID, CAPS, CGBP, senior designer, Harrell Remodeling, in Palo Alto, CA. "It's 38 Kitchen & Bath Design News • September 2016