Once you’ve decided to spend your golden years living in your home, the next step is to make sure your place can keep up with your evolving needs as you age. One particular area you should pay attention to is the kitchen. In this post, we share tips on creating a kitchen that seamlessly adapts to your changing needs, ensuring your comfort, safety and enjoyment for years to come.
Embrace Smart, Age-Friendly Design
The foundation of a kitchen that ages as well begins with smart design principles. One essential tip is to consider the placement of your cabinets. Lowering upper cabinets by 3 inches from the standard height can make them more accessible, reducing the need to stretch or use a step stool. Additionally, swapping traditional knobs for lever-style or D handles significantly improves ease of use, offering a comfortable grip for users of all ages. An accessible remodeling expert can incorporate such age-friendly design elements without compromising style.
Focus on Accessibility and Comfort
An often overlooked aspect of kitchen design is the allowance for ample clearance space. This is especially critical if mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers become necessary. The ADA recommends 60 inches of clearance for wheelchair accessibility, a guideline that can profoundly impact the layout and functionality of your kitchen. Moreover, selecting floor materials that offer slip resistance, like vinyl or textured tile, can mitigate the risks of falls, ensuring a safer environment as your mobility changes.
Optimize Lighting for Safety and Visibility
Proper lighting is crucial in any kitchen. It not only enhances the ambiance but also ensures tasks can be performed safely. Incorporating a mix of task, ambient and accent lighting can illuminate workspaces effectively, reducing the risk of accidents and eye strain. Look into adjustable lighting systems that can be easily controlled with smart home technology to adapt to different times of day and various kitchen activities. Discuss these options with your contractor so they can include these features in the kitchen quote.
Select User-Friendly Appliances and Fixtures
Modern technology gives you plenty of options for appliances and fixtures. Experts recommend getting a shallow sink, around 6 to 8 inches deep, to make tasks such as washing dishes and food preparation more manageable. Intuitive appliances like side-opening ovens or touch-to-use faucets are also excellent choices. They can significantly enhance usability for individuals of all ages and abilities.
Plan for Versatile Storage Solutions
Storage is a key component of any kitchen design, more so in one that aims to be accessible over the years. Implementing solutions like pull-out shelves, lazy Susans and drawer organizers can greatly reduce the physical strain of accessing everyday items. A kitchen remodeler or general contractor near me can customize storage options to cater to your unique needs.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Chester County ensures that every design element or practical feature is seamlessly integrated into your kitchen, marrying accessibility with a high-end finish. Call us at (610) 484-2000 or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation.
