Universal design is the solution for homebuyers looking for an accessible and cost-effective way to create a comfortable living space.
There is no doubt that universal design can make a house more accessible. Additionally, universal design can reduce costs in the long run, as it eliminates the need for costly renovations or additions down the line. Overall, universal design will be a great investment for your home.
In this context, we will explore what universal design is and how it can make your home more accessible in terms of design and costs.
What is a Universal Home Design?
Universal design is the concept of designing products and environments to be usable by all people, regardless of age, ability, or situation. It is an approach to design that creates both an aesthetically pleasing and accessible environment.
The universal design focuses on creating spaces that meet the needs of all users, regardless of their ages or mental impairments. Low-pile carpets, wider entrances, and hallways are just a few examples of universal design elements.
Universal design does not always mean making changes to the existing structure or layout of a home. Instead, it involves incorporating design elements into the space that are easy to use. Universal design also includes other elements such as color schemes, floor plans, and lighting that can be modified to suit specific user needs.
How to Make Your Home More Accessible: Design Costs and Tips
A major benefit of a universally designed home is the ability to make it available to the widest range of potential users. Whether it is a single-family dwelling or an apartment, universal design can be implemented in all types of homes.
If you are planning, be ready to consider the costs associated with universal design. The NAHB, or National Association of Home Builders states that,
“The expenditures connected to making a universally designed home can range from a couple hundred dollars for modest remodeling, up to $25,000 for major upgrades,”
But you don’t have to break the bank to make your home more accessible. Simple changes such as installing grab bars, widening doorways, and installing no-step entries can all help to improve accessibility while not significantly impacting your budget.
Making your home more accessible doesn’t have to mean extensive remodeling or large expenditures. Moreover, many of these modifications can also increase the value of your home in the future. Nevertheless, based on the buyer, an accessible home’s value can rise dramatically.
Why More and More Homebuyers are Opting for Universal Design
We guess, people are opting for universal designs in order to have the following advantages,
- Improved Accessibility: Universal design provides greater accessibility for people with disabilities, as well as those who are aging. It can include features like wider doorways, lever-style door handles, walk-in showers, stairlifts, adjustable sinks, and pull-down shelving.
- Easier Maintenance: Universal design homes are built to last. They are built to withstand damage and wear. This means you need to spend less time and money on maintenance and repairs.
- Enhanced Safety: Universal design takes safety into account. This can include features such as extra handrails for stairs, easily-identifiable stair edges, non-slip flooring, higher windows, and emergency alert systems.
- Increased Home Value: Homes with universal design have the potential to add value. Not only do universal design features make a home more accessible, but also attractive to buyers.
- Greater Comfort: Universal design homes are designed with comfort in mind. Features such as adjustable lighting levels, ergonomic furniture, and accessible kitchen appliances can make a home more comfortable to live in.
- Easier to Adapt: Universal design homes can grow with you. This means they are easier to adapt if they need any changes over time. Partially, this can save time and money for future modifications.
Prices of universally designed homes in different US cites
Universally designed homes are becoming an increasingly popular choice among homeowners looking to create a space that is both accessible and functional for people of all ages and abilities. In addition to the many practical benefits of universal design, such as improved safety and ease of use, these homes can also have a significant impact on home prices in different U.S. cities.
One city where home prices for universally designed homes are on the rise is Arrington, Tennessee. This idyllic town located just south of Nashville has seen a surge in demand for universally designed homes in recent years, with many buyers attracted to the town’s picturesque setting and easy access to urban amenities.
According to data from Matt Ward Group, the median home price in Arrington is around $812,000, with prices for universally designed homes often exceeding this average. However, many buyers are willing to pay a premium for these homes, which offer features such as single-level living, wider doorways and hallways, and accessible bathrooms and kitchens.
In other U.S. cities, such as Chicago and Los Angeles, home prices for universally designed homes can also be significantly higher than the median. In Chicago, for example, universally designed homes can sell for up to 15% more than comparable non-universal designs, while in Los Angeles, prices for these homes can exceed $2 million.
Despite these higher prices, many homeowners are drawn to universally designed homes for their many benefits, including improved accessibility, safety, and comfort. As the demand for these homes continues to grow, it’s likely that home prices in many U.S. cities.
Day by day, universal design is becoming increasingly popular among homebuyers. This allows their homes to be more accessible and user-friendly. As a result, universal design can create a comfortable living space for all residents, regardless of ability or age.