Designing a home for wheelchair access

Currently, NU Projects are finishing a commercial renovation in East London. With it being commercial, questions surrounding accessibility had to be considered. Wheelchair access had to be provided. So did easy manoeuvring from one area to another for people with mobility restrictions.

Not only does mobility affect individuals with health restrictions. With an ageing population, mobility around interiors has to be thought about. A lot can be done to make a room practical, accessible and good looking. This is exciting for the future. So much can be done in terms of design.

Here, we will discuss what should be considered when creating a hotel room. The same applies to any room that needs to be mobility design conscious.

Firstly, the key points to consider. Floor areas have to be wide enough for a wheelchair to move around. It should not need a three point turn. For a smooth U-turn, 1500mm should be given. Level access is also very important. Ramps, lifts and level flooring are important. They allow a wheelchair to transition from one space to the next without restrictions.

In bathrooms, grab rails should be provided. A level access or roll in shower should be provided too. Safety is a big consideration. Every individual should find it easy to manoeuvre from one space to the next.

Lighting deserves a lot of attention. A place should be bright and lit well. That helps people with mobility restrictions, as well as minimal sight, get around. Plug sockets and light switches should also sit at suitable levels. A good height for plug sockets is 450mm to 1200mm from floor level. This allows easy access for people in wheelchairs. They do not need to crouch or struggle.

Some people with autism may find it difficult to deal with loud noises. Sound proofing walls is a good way to go to block out exterior noise. Soundproofing can be quite expensive, in terms of raw materials, labour and installation fees. It is still a good extra for adding value to a property.

In the kitchen, leave clear space under the worktops. A wheelchair can then get close to the units for cooking and washing up. Drop the worktop below its normal height as well: 815mm suits most wheelchair users. Height adjustable cabinet lifts pull down and push back up. They make the high shelves reachable.

Some modern design trends are really good for individuals with mobility restrictions. A couple of great trends would be very suitable. Pocket doors are a great solution and very chic too. Sliding doors on an electronic system are great for wheelchair users. For example, large screens of glass are modern. With glass doors incorporated, they give a very sophisticated, classy feel.

There are plenty of published examples of houses designed around accessibility. They are also good looking rooms. The two requirements are not in competition. Treating them as though they were is what produces a clinical result.

A great deal can still be done to make accessible design good design. Not many people are doing it yet.

You may be planning work of this kind. If so, tell us about the property. You can also call NU Projects on 020 7731 6841.