Accessible Housing by Design

Kitchens
Universal design
People who inhabit and visit the houses we live in come in all shapes
Universal design is the design and
and sizes, and range in age from infants to seniors, with various
composition of an environment so that it
ever-changing abilities and skills. As we grow up, grow old and welcome can be accessed, understood and used to
new people to our homes, our housing needs change. A house that is the greatest extent possible by all people
designed and constructed to reflect the principles of universal design regardless of their age, size and ability.
may be safer and more accommodating to the diverse range of ages and “The Principles of Universal Design” are
abilities of people who live in and visit. found on page 16.

Everyone appreciates having a kitchen that is safe, spacious, easy to use

and beautiful. The successful design of a universally accessible kitchen Bolded terms throughout this fact sheet
starts with identifying potential users and anticipating their needs. are defined in the Glossary on page 13.

Kitchen design
People are demanding functional, usable and flexible kitchen designs that will work for their
families. Core universal design concepts are being incorporated into many aspects of kitchen
design, including appliances, cabinets, lighting and flooring.
Also gaining in popularity is the concept of aging in place. By providing design features that
follow the principles of universal design and by incorporating flexibility and adaptability into kitchen
design, families, couples and individuals are able to stay in
their homes and neighbourhoods as they grow and age.
Planning for individuals’ changing needs and abilities allows
for periodic kitchen customizations based on changing
requirements and reduces the need for future costly
renovations (see figure 1).
Effective universal design and construction can only occur
when we truly appreciate how persons with disabilities
engage the built environment. Universal design is only a
subtle shift from what is typically done; designing for
greater accessibility is not a new way of designing, simply a
more focused one.
Figure 1: Large accessible kitchen
Photo by Ron Wickman
Accessible Housing by Design Kitchens

Design considerations
A universally designed kitchen is comfortable and safe for all family members, however, it is the
most difficult space to make universal. Countertop heights cannot possibly be in one position that
accommodates one individual sitting in a wheelchair and another standing at 1,980 mm (78 in.).
Adjustable height counters, sinks and cooktops will solve this problem. However, this solution
can be costly.
Upper cabinets offer great storage space, but cannot be reached by persons in wheelchairs or who
are of a shorter stature. Upper cabinets can be installed with hardware that can pull shelves out and
down, allowing persons in wheelchairs to access items located otherwise out of reach.
A best practice in a universal residential kitchen is to separate the stove cooktop and oven.
The cooktop must be designed to be open underneath, so as to allow for a seated person’s legs.
The wall oven must be positioned at a height accessible to all users.
A flexible residential kitchen must ensure ease of approach to and use—even from a wheelchair—
of the sink, worktop, equipment, all appliances and their controls, and all storage essential to
kitchen operation.
The greatest challenge in the creation of a universal design kitchen is typically in its execution.
The easiest way to ensure that a kitchen gets built correctly is to use detailed drawings completed
by an architect or experienced kitchen designer.
Important considerations that will help you identify your kitchen design requirements include the
following factors:
■■ Kitchen layout
■■ Kitchen size
■■ Minimal effort
■■ Adaptability
■■ Ease of cleaning
■■ Safety

Kitchen layout
The key to effective kitchen design for all users, especially those who use wheelchairs, is a layout
that provides the right balance between countertop area, manoeuvring space and storage space.
The layout should avoid compromising working areas with cross routes, limit travel distances and
reduce the needs to lift items from one counter to the next. Especially for persons in wheelchairs,
the kitchen layout must reduce the need for excessive manoeuvring and positioning. Maximizing the
range of operations from one location is key.
Traditionally, kitchen designers have focused on a compact work triangle formed by the sink,
stove and refrigerator. The conventional rule of thumb is that there should be no more than
7,925 mm (26 ft.) measured from centre to centre of the major appliances. No distance is less than
1,200 mm (4 ft.) or larger than 2,743 mm (9 ft.) for maximum efficiency. In today’s reality, we must
expand the triangle to include all work areas as well as separate cooktop and wall oven, garbage

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disposal and the dishwasher. If your ability to move LOWER WORK

around the kitchen while carrying things is limited, SURFACE

it is even more important to consider these additional

elements within the traditional work triangle.
An efficient kitchen that maximizes independence
and convenience is the cornerstone of good design. D.W.
MIN. 1,800 FOR
Designing an efficient kitchen also involves keeping A POWER 750 X 1,200
WHEELCHAIR OR FOOTPRINT
the work triangle compact. Logical, sequential, SCOOTER FRENCH SPLIT
routine movements will define the way your family DOORS WITH
BOTTOM
uses the kitchen and will help you design a kitchen FREEZER
with a work triangle that meets your needs.
FRIDGE W.O.
A U-shaped kitchen (see figure 2) may be the most
convenient layout for one or two people working in
Figure 2: U-shaped kitchen
a kitchen, but having a work area that is accessible
Diagram by Ron Wickman, Architect
from outside the “U” is also advisable.
A galley-style kitchen requires less space and
sometimes provides people with more than one entry W.O.
and exit point (see figure 3). However, a galley-style
kitchen usually limits a person using a wheelchair to
a side approach to counters and appliances and can 750 X 1,200
MIN. 1,500 FOR FOOTPRINT
limit the amount of turning space. A MANUAL
WHEELCHAIR
An L-shaped kitchen, with or without an island, OR WALKER FRENCH SPLIT
DOORS WITH
provides several work surfaces, including some BOTTOM
FREEZER
outside the primary work triangle, which means
people can work without bumping into each other D.W FRIDGE
(see figure 4). .

All kitchens have various routes, some that everyone

Figure 3: Galley-style kitchen
uses and others that are only occasionally used. Diagram by Ron Wickman, Architect
Primary throughways should be designed outside
the expanded work triangle. Remember that dishwasher
and refrigerator doors may be open when the family
W.O.
is racing through the kitchen.
An island creates alternate work areas. A sink and an 750 X 1,200
electrical outlet in the island can maximize usability FOOTPRINT
MIN. 1,800 FOR D.W.
and convenience for everyone. A POWER
WHEELCHAIR
Appropriate size and location of both garbage and recycling OR SCOOTER

bins in the kitchen makes clean up efficient. Consider using

containers within a cabinet system (one that slides out) to
maximize usage of space.
750 X 1,200 FRENCH SPLIT
For people with limited agility or mobility, a wheeled FOOTPRINT DOORS WITH FRIDGE
BOTTOM
trolley can be useful for carrying food from the kitchen FREEZER
to the dining area. Figure 4: L-shaped kitchen with an island
Diagram by Ron Wickman, Architect

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Also remember to consider window height. People should be able to see through windows when
sitting and there should be easy access to window controls.
It is a good idea to reduce the number of doorways that open into a kitchen. If a door is necessary,
it should provide at least 810 mm (32 in.) of clear passage width when it is open, but a clear space
of at least 860 mm (34 in.) is better. It is highly recommended to install a 915 mm (36 in.) wide
door. Door hardware should be operable with one hand that does not require fine finger control,
tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist.

Kitchen size
A design for someone who uses a walker or wheelchair should allow manoeuvring space of
750x1,200 mm (30x47 in.) in front of controls, work areas and appliances. This work area can
be part of the overall required minimum manoeuvring space of 1,500x1,500 mm (59x59 in.)
in the work triangle.
Power wheelchair and scooter users need a larger turning radius and the required minimum
manoeuvring space is 1,800x1,800 mm (71x71 in.).

Minimal effort
Designing for minimal effort is an important principle of universal kitchen design. Planning for efficiency
considers the location and relationship of all major elements within the kitchen. This will result in the
placement of similar or related items in the same location within the kitchen.
Emptying the dishwasher is easier if the dishes and glasses are stored nearby. Baking is easier if baking
supplies are close to a work surface and the oven. Meal cleanup is easier if the table is located close
to the sink, dishwasher and garbage.
Flexibility and efficiency of effort can be achieved through such design considerations as providing
storage options at a variety of heights.
Planning for efficiency of effort and ease of use incorporates features, such as more lighting,
a place to sit down to work, a lower workstation and storing materials where they can be easily
seen and reached.
Other kitchen design components that increase usability include the following:
■■ Persons who use wheelchairs can benefit from continuous countertops allowing pots, dishes
and so on to be slid along
■■ Hands-free faucets
■■ Pot faucet at cooktop
■■ Wall-mounted oven at countertop height
■■ Countertop convection/microwave oven
■■ Open shelving rather than cupboards with doors
■■ Space for using a wheeled trolley
■■ Resilient flooring rather than a hard surface

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Adaptability
Kitchens may be used by both a user in a wheelchair
and others who are ambulant. Finding an effective
countertop height for all users is very difficult.
A flexible kitchen design offers an adjustable height
sink, cooktop, worktop and upper cabinets. There are
both low-tech and high-tech ways to provide for height
adjustable counters and cabinets. Cost will typically
dictate the design approach. The most cost-effective,
low-tech design is to build into the supporting structure
with a series of support points so that the counters or
cabinets can be manually removed and repositioned
in a more accessible position (see figure 5). Care must Figure 5: Adjustable kitchen countertops
be taken with this design strategy so that exposed Photo by Ron Wickman
surfaces are finished when the counters are lowered.
Sinks and plumbing must also be strategically specified
to maintain leg room when the counter with sink
is lowered.
The most universal method, in terms of persons with
disabilities, is high tech. This involves the installation
of motorized guides to move counters and cabinets
up and down with the flip of a switch. The adjustable
height counters should be in different sections to
allow for shared use. Care must also be taken in the
design of a countertop backsplash so it works with
the adjustable height counters and cabinets.
Figure 6: Accessible kitchen with rolling cabinet
Another good idea is to have rolling base cabinets Photo by Ron Wickman
complete with a finished top. These base cabinets
can be moved out so the counter is open underneath;
they could also be used as a small tabletop for use
in the living area. This can be useful for people who
use a wheelchair and wants to roll items along with
them to another location, similar to a walker with a
basket concept (see figure 6).
Where space is limited or a dining room is not required,
a kitchen island tabletop can be used for both food
preparation and dining (see figure 7).

Figure 7: Accessible kitchen with island-dining

table combination
Photo by Ron Wickman

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Ease of cleaning
When making decisions about new appliances, floors and countertops, remember to consider
surface finishes that are low maintenance.
For example, glass cooktops tend to be easier to clean whereas stainless steel appliances show
fingerprints and may require specialized cleaning products. Some countertop surfaces need yearly
maintenance with a sealer to protect them from staining and harbouring bacteria.
Kitchen cleaning products should be stored in easy-to-reach locations, preferably in drawers or
baskets that slide out. If family members include children, people with Alzheimer’s, people who
are very forgetful or who have developmental disabilities, give careful thought to the storage and
security of these products.

Safety
Safety in the kitchen deserves the highest consideration. Small rugs and mats in the kitchen should
be avoided because they are a tripping hazard and an obstacle for many people who use mobility
devices and persons with dementia.
There are situations where it is safest to limit access to appliances in the home, for example,
when a member of the household has Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. If this is the case,
consider installing an override switch that must be activated before using an appliance or
outlet in the kitchen. Install the switch in a place that is inaccessible to those who might be at
risk of injuring themselves.
Consider providing wall space in the kitchen for a notice board. Although a notice board is a useful
feature for everyone, it is of particular benefit to people whose cognitive abilities are changing
or who are losing their memory. Post reminders and safety notes on the board.
Plan for easy access to water, a fire extinguisher and the gas shut-off valve in case of emergency.

Design elements
The major design elements of a universal kitchen are:
■■ countertops;
■■ cupboards, drawers and pantries;
■■ sinks and cleanup areas;
■■ food preparation areas;
■■ switches and controls;
■■ interior finishing;
■■ lighting; and
■■ audibility.

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Countertops
Countertops are traditionally 915 mm (36 in.) high, but a countertop 860 mm (34 in.) high is more
convenient for children, people of a shorter stature and people who use a wheelchair. If the person
who uses the wheelchair is a child or a shorter person, they may find a counter and work areas set
to 730 mm (29 in.) a suitable adaptation.
The key to proper height placement of the countertop is to keep the counter to a minimum
thickness. This maximizes the ability to keep the countertop low enough for those users in
wheelchairs to reach into the sink; the countertop can also be high enough to allow the same
users in wheelchairs to get underneath the counter. A bar located in front of the counter could
assist those individuals with balance issues standing at the sink.
Installing counters at a variety of heights (see figures 8 and 9) is a universally accessible approach
to meeting the needs of people of different heights and reach abilities, but remember, a traditional
dishwasher requires a minimum counter height of 915 mm (36 in.) so the height of the counter
should be carefully considered in that location. However, this approach is not always recommended
for persons with dementia. Adaptability can also be achieved by installing counters with electrically
adjustable heights, which are available from a number of innovative kitchen designers.
A toe space of 150 mm (6 in.) under the cabinets will
enable a person who uses a mobility device to approach
the counter more closely. A high toe space has the added
benefit of raising the height of the bottom shelf in the
lower cabinet or drawer, reducing the reach range.
Clear counter space should be provided beside all major
410

appliances for food or dishes as they are taken out of the

730 X 860 410

refrigerator, oven or cupboard.
STANDING

1150
There should be multiple work surfaces in the kitchen,
915

SITTING
at least one with a minimum size of 800 mm (31 in.) 710

wide x 600 mm (24 in.) deep, at a height of 730 mm to

860 mm (29 in. to 34 in.), with a minimum footprint in 800
100 - 230 KICKPLATE
front of 750x1,200 mm (30x47 in.) to accommodate
someone who is seated. Figure 8: Lowered work area
Diagram by Ron Wickman, Architect
People with reduced vision or dementia should avoid
countertop surfaces with busy patterns and many prefer
to have a solid colour that will provide some contrast with
their appliances and dishes. Some people select contrasting
edging on the countertop to help in identifying the edge
(see figure 9).
A backsplash in a contrasting colour can also help people
with low vision better identify the extent and configuration
of the counters.
Rounded or bull-nose edges on counters increase safety by
eliminating the danger of sharp corners. Figure 9: Lowered work area
Photo by Ron Wickman

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Cupboards, drawers and pantries

Storing related things in the same cupboard where they
are easy to find is especially important for people with
limited mobility and a visual impairment.
A large pantry with swing-out doors or large drawers
allows food and condiments to be stored where they can
be easily reached at a variety of heights (see figure 10).
Upper cupboards should be installed with the bottom
edge 410 mm (16 in.) above the countertop, instead of
the more traditional 460 mm (18 in.), to ensure that
the lower shelf is within reach of someone seated. Figure 10: Pantry with swing-out doors and pullout shelving
Cupboards should not be installed less than 410 mm Photo by Ron Wickman
(16 in.) above the counter, as this reduces storage
space for appliances on the counter.
Upper cupboard systems are available that can be
electrically raised or lowered. In addition, there are
shelving and rack systems that can be installed in
existing cupboards, which enable the entire rack
to be pulled out and down, increasing the usability
of the upper cupboards for everyone (see figure 11).
Installing lower cabinet drawers that pull out fully to
display their contents for easy retrieval is an excellent
approach (see figure 12).
Another strategy for providing accessible storage is Figure 11: Upper cabinets feature pull-down-and-out
shelving to provide access to contents for people
using a series of small and large drawers instead of
that cannot reach high
cupboards. Cupboards and drawers should have D-type Photo by Ron Wickman
pull handles, which are easier for people with reduced
mobility or agility to use (see figure 13). These pull
handles should also contrast in colour so they are
easier to identify for persons with limited vision.
Touch-and-release drawers and cupboards are
universally accessible to everyone, including people
with limited dexterity. Other hardware includes full
extension drawers, soft-close fittings, silent-closing
fittings, door shock absorbers, bumpers and push
button controls.
A contrasting colour for the interior of drawers and
cupboards may also increase visibility for people with
limited vision. Labelling drawers with content inside
also helps persons with dementia. Figure 12: Lower cabinets feature drawers to provide
access to contents
Photo by Ron Wickman

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A drawer or shelf that pulls out beneath a wall oven

or microwave with a side-opening door can be used
as a heat-resistant surface. This reduces the
necessity of carrying hot pans and can provide a place for
hot items to cool before they are moved. These drawers
or shelves can also provide an additional work surface
in smaller kitchens (see figure 14).
Pantry cupboards with doors that open fully, using
180-degree or swing-clear hinges, allow everyone
to easily see the contents and to reach the shelves.
In addition, internal lighting adds greater visibility for
people searching for items in pantries and cupboards. Figure 13: Cabinet and drawer handles are D-shaped
Household members with food sensitivities should have for easy grasping
dedicated pantry and work areas for their preferred foods. Photo by Ron Wickman

Consider using open-shelf storage or cupboards with

glass doors if someone in the household is experiencing
changes in cognitive ability or memory loss. The ability to
see the contents of the shelves and cupboards can make
the kitchen easier to use for many.

Sinks and cleanup areas

Two sink areas should be considered in busy kitchens
and in kitchens where there are people working at
various heights.
Locating an accessible sink in a corner location is not
recommended as it restricts access to the surrounding Figure 14: A pullout shelf positioned below the oven can be
area and limits the usability of the counter areas. used to place utensils or items that are going into the oven
Photo by Ron Wickman
When a sink will be used from a seated position, a shallow
sink with the drain offset to the rear is recommended.
This will allow sufficient knee space and will result in the
drainage pipes being out of the way, eliminating the hazard
of someone burning their legs (see figure 15). Alternately,
the drainage pipes can be insulated rather than offset.
An accessible sink should provide knee space
clearance—750 mm (30 in.) high, 800 mm (31 in.)
wide and 600 mm (24 in.) deep—to allow someone
using a wheelchair to wheel under the sink.
Plumbing should be flexible to suit adjustable sink heights.
Single-lever, pullout spray type faucets are the easiest
to use by most people. Faucets should also permit Figure 15: Accessible kitchen with space open under
easy control of water temperature, flow and direction. the sink and pipe protection to prevent someone from
Faucets located at the side of the sink are easier to burning his/her legs
Photo by Ron Wickman
reach. Having instant hot water is also a good idea.

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A faucet controlled by a single lever or a motion detector

is the most convenient. However, separate hot and cold
lever handles help avoid confusion for those users with
dementia. A lever faucet and a pullout hose with a spray
nozzle provides convenience for everyone, particularly if
there is a soap dispenser incorporated into the faucet
design (see figure 16). This provides flexibility and ease
of use for all family members.

Food preparation workstations

An accessible workstation integrated into the design of
a kitchen is most advantageous for people who work
from a seated position. A workstation where someone
can prepare food and have easy access to accessories
in that same area is efficient and convenient. Figure 16: Pull-down sprayer faucet in the kitchen island
Photo by Ron Wickman
An accessible workstation is equally appreciated by a
child who wants to participate in kitchen activities.
The workstation should have at least one accessible
counter or pullout shelf, accessible storage within easy
reach, as well as an electrical outlet and sink.

Switches and controls

All switches and controls should be easy to operate.
Also, switches and electrical outlets must be strategically
located to be within reach of persons in a seated position
and to suit adjustable worktops. Switches located below
the countertop provide easy access to operate the
cooktop overhead light and fan and electrical access
to plug in a kettle or toaster (see figure 17). However,
careful consideration should be given to locating outlets
out of the reach of children. For added safety you could
consider installing an override switch.
Other controls and switches, should be located at a
maximum height of 1,200 mm (47 in.) from the floor.
Controls and switches can also contrast in colour to Figure 17: Switch located below the countertop
be easier found by persons with low vision. Photo by Ron Wickman

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Interior finishing
Colour and texture contrast around the kitchen aids all users, especially those with visual limitations.
Flooring that is firm, level and non-slip creates a safer environment for all users. Flooring should also
be non-glare and non-pattern to better accommodate persons with visual limitations and dementia.
The use of a contrasting colour on the front edges of countertops and around switches, electrical
outlets and other controls again better accommodates persons with visual limitations.
Durability, ease of cleaning, comfort and a safe, non-slip surface are some of the prime considerations
when selecting flooring. Slip-resistant flooring should be assessed both dry and wet.
Avoid marble or waxed floors as they are slippery, especially when wet. Cork provides an interesting
alternative as it is resilient, comfortable and easy to wheel on.Vinyl flooring is available in sheets
and tiles and is low maintenance. However, it must be installed on a plywood surface and, as a result,
there will be some emissions from the glue, vinyl and plywood. Low-emission glues are now available.
A ceramic tile or hardwood floor is a harder surface,
which is positive for persons who use wheelchairs.
If someone in your house is prone to dropping things
or falling, be sure to choose a resilient flooring material,
such as cushioned vinyl or cork.
Whatever type of flooring material is selected, ensure the
flooring is installed so that it is level with adjacent flooring
to avoid having a lip or rise where the different flooring
materials meet.
Having a central vacuum system with a toe kick vacuum
makes it easier for everyone to keep the kitchen clean
(see figure 18). Figure 18: Central vacuum system located in kitchen
cabinet toe kick
Photo by Ron Wickman
Lighting
The universal approach to lighting design is to address the needs of people as they age. It should be
noted that people over the age of 60 typically require two to three times as much light for reading
compared to people 20 years old. Three basic issues to consider for aging eyes include the need for
increased intensity, uniformed, balanced lighting and controlled glare.
Increased intensity is often straightforward, however we still need to consider the other goals of
providing uniformed, balanced lighting and minimizing glare. Fixtures and light sources should be
positioned such that “islands” of brightness with dark shadows are not created. Look for a mix
of ambient, task and accent lighting that works in harmony with the users of the space. It is also
possible to install a light that gradually adjusts the rate of illumination. During a middle of the night
kitchen visit, a motion detector activates the light, which slowly brightens so one is not
overwhelmed. Dimmer switches are also an option. Adjustable directed or task lighting also
allows one to have extra illumination in key areas of the kitchen.
Uniform, balanced lighting is important because changing eyes do not adjust to changing light
conditions as quickly. This is an important consideration when moving from one space to another.
Try to balance lighting throughout the room and compensate for extra-bright areas, while eliminating
dark corners.

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Where possible, take advantage of opportunities to maximize natural lighting, but be careful to
avoid glare. Glare-free surface treatments and a soft matte paint finish are preferred, especially by
persons with visual limitations or dementia. These finishes reduce glare and complement illumination
levels, creating a more relaxing atmosphere.
Glare can be controlled through the proper selection of fixtures and by locating light sources so
the bulbs are not exposed to view. Ambient lighting should be provided to maintain an even level
of illumination throughout the kitchen; directing lighting at the ceiling and reflecting it into the room
can be quite effective. Indirect lighting over wall cabinets and toe kicks provide illumination without
ceiling glare.
Light fixture choices include recessed lights, under-cabinet fixtures, bulb strips, cove lights, wall sconces,
pendants, spot lights and ceiling fixtures. Where possible, light fixtures should come complete with
two long-lasting bulbs; in that way the fixture still produces light if one bulb burns out, which benefits
those persons who cannot easily change a bulb.

Audibility
Special thought should be given to the ways that people who are hard of hearing or deaf will be
alerted to timer buzzers and smoke alarms. Appliances that provide information in two different
formats (visual and audio signals for example) are widely available. This also helps people who are
blind or with vision loss. See CMHC’s Accessible Housing by Design—Appliances for more information.
Efforts should be made to limit sources of noise, especially when the kitchen is used by people who
are hard of hearing. Soft, absorbent surfaces such as cork flooring can reduce noise in the kitchen.
In accessible kitchen design, it is a good idea to consult with a professional, such as an occupational
therapist. It also helps to consult with an architect, an interior designer or another design professional
who is familiar with the design of accessible residences. During the design, work with the designer
and occupational therapist to determine the most positive kitchen layout and best placement of
countertops and appliances.

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Glossary
180-degree or swing-clear hinges: Door hinges that permit full-door opening by enabling the
door to lie flat against the adjacent surface.
Adjustable height counters: Countertops, sinks, cooktops and cabinets that can be raised or
lowered at the touch of a button, making them accessible to people who are seated or who are
taller or shorter.
Aging in place: The ability to remain in one’s home safely, independently and comfortably,
regardless of age, income or ability level throughout one’s changing lifetime.
Ambient lighting: The overall illumination of an environment through the use of lamps,
overhead light fixtures, sunlight or any previously existing light.
Heat-resistant surface: A material that strongly resists the flow of heat through itself and is
resistant to burning.
Override switch: A lock-out feature that prevents accidental activation or entry into an appliance.
Deactivating the lock-out feature does not, in and of itself, activate the device—it simply enables the
user to take the normal steps for activation or entry.
Resilient flooring: Flooring that has a relatively firm surface, yet can reshape itself back to its
original surface profile after it is compressed.
Task lighting: This type of focusable lighting is typically employed to increase illumination above
ambient levels.
Work triangle: Space that connects the three major work areas of a kitchen: the cleaning area
(sink), the cooking area (range and cooktop) and the cold storage area (refrigerator).

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Additional Resources
Books
Barrier Free Environments Inc. The Accessible Housing Design File.
New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1991.
Behar, S., and C. Leibrock. Beautiful Barrier-Free: A Visual Guide to Accessibility.
New York:Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1993.
CMHC. Housing Choices for Canadians with Disabilities.
Ottawa, ON, Canada: CMHC, 1995.
Dobkin, I. L., and M .J. Peterson. Gracious Spaces: Universal Interiors by Design.
New York: McGraw-Hill, 1999.
Frechette, L. A. Accessible Housing.
New York: McGraw-Hill, 1996.
Goldsmith, S. Universal Design: A Manual of Practical Guidance for Architects.
Oxford, England: Architectural Press, 2000.
Jordan, Wendy A. Universal Design for the Home.
Beverly, Massachusetts: Quarry Books, 2008.
Leibrock, C., and J. E. Terry. Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide.
New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1999.
Mace, R. Residential Remodeling and Universal Design: Making Homes more Comfortable and Accessible.
Darby, PA: Diane Publishing Co, 1996.
Pierce, Deborah. The Accessible Home: Designing for All Ages and Abilities.
Newtown, CT: The Taunton Press, 2012.
Wylde, Margaret, Adrian Baron-Robins, and Sam Clark. Building for a Lifetime:The Design and
Construction of Fully Accessible Homes. Newtown, CT: The Taunton Press, 1994.

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Websites
American Association of Retired Persons – AARP (May 2016)
http://search.aarp.org/everywhere?Ntt=universal%20design&intcmp=DSO-SRCH-EWHERE
Ball State University: WELLComeHome – Universal Kitchen Design (May 2016)
http://wellcomehome.iweb.bsu.edu/friendly_kitchen.html
Barrier Free Architectural Inc. (January 2016)
http://www.barrierfree.org/accessible-kitchen/baselift-adjustable-counter-lift
Home for Life (May 2016)
http://www.homeforlife.ca
IDEA Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (May 2016)
http://idea.ap.buffalo.edu
Institute for Human Centered Design (May 2016)
http://humancentereddesign.org
Livable Housing Australia (May 2016)
http://livablehousingaustralia.org.au
NC State University: College of Design (May 2016)
http://www.design.ncsu.edu
Virginia Tech – Center for Real Life Kitchen Design (May 2016)
http://www.ahrm.vt.edu/about/ahrm-spaces/center-rlkd/index.html
Vision Australia Accessible Design for Homes (May 2016)
http://www.visionaustralia.org/living-with-low-vision/learning-to-live-independently/living-at-home/
making-the-best-of-your-vision

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

15
 Accessible Housing by Design Kitchens

The Principles of Universal Design

Principle 1: Equitable use
This principle focuses on providing equitable access for everyone in an integrated and dignified manner.
It implies that the design is appealing to everyone and provides an equal level of safety for all users.

Principle 2: Flexibility in use

This principle implies that the design of the house or product has been developed considering a
wide range of individual preferences and abilities throughout the life cycle of the occupants.

Principle 3: Simple and intuitive

The layout and design of the home and devices should be easy to understand, regardless of the
user’s experience or cognitive ability. This principle requires that design elements be simple and
work intuitively.

Principle 4: Perceptible information

The provision of information using a combination of different modes, whether using visual,
audible or tactile methods, will ensure that everyone is able to use the elements of the home
safely and effectively. Principle 4 encourages the provision of information through some of our
senses—sight, hearing and touch—when interacting with our home environment.

Principle 5: Tolerance for error

This principle incorporates a tolerance for error, minimizing the potential for unintended results.
This implies design considerations that include fail-safe features and gives thought to how all
users may use the space or product safely.

Principle 6: Low physical effort

This principle deals with limiting the strength, stamina and dexterity required to access spaces or
use controls and products.

Principle 7: Size and space for approach and use

This principle focuses on the amount of room needed to access space, equipment and controls.
This includes designing for the appropriate size and space so that all family members and visitors
can safely reach, see and operate all elements of the home.

©2016, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

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Produced by CMHC 15-06-16

Although this information product reflects housing experts’ current knowledge, it is provided for general information purposes only. Any reliance or action taken based on
the information, materials and techniques described are the responsibility of the user. Readers are advised to consult appropriate professional resources to determine what
is safe and suitable in their particular case. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation assumes no responsibility for any consequence arising from use of the information,
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