What is universal design?

Universal design is a building approach in which structures are made to be usable by as many people as possible, regardless of age, ability or situation. Healthier lifestyles and modern medicine have stretched the lifespan of most Americans. Furthermore, low-income homeowners are much more likely to have multi-generational families living under one roof. These trends underscore the need to build universally, and similarly to green building, recent advances in this sector make universal design possible at little to no extra cost.

The need to make Habitat homes universal

Similar to green building, universal design has yet to become commonplace in Habitat homes because of the need to keep costs low and construction facile.  Often times, homes are only built universally if the homebuyer is physically disabled.  However, building all homes universally leads to several added benefits.  First, it ensures that homebuyers who are not physically disabled now will be protected if they become physically disabled in the future.  Second, Habitat for Humanity builds communities, not houses.  Universally designed houses allow for accessability and visitiability: two features which are vital to building communities.

The Better by Design Solution

Habitat for Humanity Virginia has just received a large donation from the Virginia Housing Development Authority to support universal design in Habitat homes throughout the commonwealth.  We are currently in the process of determining the best use of these funds.

More useful information on universal design

North Carolina State University Center for Universal Design

Access VA

Center for Independent Living

Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access