You must keep your lifestyle and unique needs when updating your home. If you are living with loved ones with partial or complete vision loss, making changes to your space may be necessary. A reliable accessible remodeling contractor can help you create a safe and comfortable living environment for your family.
Here are home design principles for individuals with low vision.
Simple Color Palettes
As much as possible, avoid distracting patterns and clutter in your space. Experts recommend using a simple color scheme and warm tones in your living space. Busy prints and too many colors in the room can be overwhelming for people with vision problems.
Make Stairs Easy to See
Banisters or handrails must contrast with the walls to make them easy to see. Be sure to mark every step clearly using a paint strip lighter than the rest of the stairs. Alternatively, you can also use light-colored tape.
Light-Colored Doors
Individuals with low vision can distinguish whether a door is open or closed when in a light shade. If you have glass doors at home, stick a bright-colored strip around eye level for safety. It also helps if the door frames are lighter in color than the walls.
Safe Flooring Options
Non-slip flooring is a must in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Place warning textures in front of steps or doorways for extra safety.
Good Lighting
Keeping your home well-lit should be a priority when remodeling for your visually impaired family members. An experienced home remodeler can help determine ways to allow more natural light into your indoor spaces. Add more windows, if possible, to ensure your interior is well-illuminated during the day. Choose bulbs between 60 to 100 watts, and be sure lighting is consistent throughout your home.
Install Grab Bars Where Necessary
It helps to install grab bars in areas prone to accidents, such as bathrooms and stairs. Doing so will allow people with low vision to move around the house safely.
Keep Your Kitchen Safe
In your kitchen, choose countertops that won’t make it difficult to see the items you place on the surface. Appliances should have sufficient contrast to separate them from countertops and other work areas. Plenty of storage and an efficient organization system will make finding tools and ingredients easier.
Accessible Bathrooms
It could be difficult to see white bathroom tiles and fixtures. If those are what you have at home, mark their edges with bright-colored decals or stickers. Bright mats and towels can add to your bathroom’s appeal and accessibility.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
If you need a contractor near me to help with your accessible remodeling project, you can depend on DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of St. Louis Park. Call us at (952) 522-3008 or fill out our online form to start a conversation with our experts. We serve homeowners in Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, Robbinsdale, Eden Prairie, Bloomington, Eagan, and nearby communities.
