Posts Tagged ‘universal design’

Anatomy of an Accessible & Universal Design Master Bathroom – A Visit to the Universal Design Living Laboratory (Part 2)

Friday, April 19th, 2013

 

Rosemarie Rossetti & Mark Leder in Universal Design Master Bathroom

Rosemarie Rossetti & Mark Leder in Universal Design Master Bathroom

Who ever said accessible bath design cannot look cool and relaxing has never visited the home of Rosemarie Rossetti and Mark Leder. This home – built in Columbus Ohio – is a living example of how inspired design can also be a safe and functional space for people of all abilities, sizes or ages. This home called the Universal Design Living Laboratory is the brainchild of Rosemarie and Mark and will be open to the general public in a few short months.

 

This article (which is Part 2 in a series– Part 1 looked at the Guest Bath) will look at the key features and benefits of an accessible and universal design master bathroom.

  Continue reading “Anatomy of an Accessible & Universal Design Master Bathroom – A Visit to the Universal Design Living Laboratory (Part 2)” »

Choosing a curbless barrier free shower base for style and function in a bath remodeling project

Friday, September 14th, 2012
Barrier free shower base using Tuff Form system

Barrier free shower base using Tuff Form system

You might be thinking I’m nuts to say you can add a curbless barrier free shower and improve looks at the same time – but this is not your grandmothers shower anymore! Yes it is true that many people choose a no threshold shower to make it easier to get into the shower – but what’s not known to most people is these showers can not only add safety and function, but they can have the wow factor of creating a sleek spa shower experience.

 

The article below will define what a curbless shower is, the advantages with this type of shower base, design considerations and product options.

Continue reading “Choosing a curbless barrier free shower base for style and function in a bath remodeling project” »

Ranch home sales on the rise in 2012 – Ease of use & universal design are the drivers

Saturday, December 10th, 2011
Single level ranch home
Single level ranch homes offer simple floor plans and universal designs

In the movie “Field of Dreams” the famous line was if you build it they will come. In the home building industry applying this mantra without an understanding of what the market needs and wants will provide a quick path towards not having a business. Given the challenging home construction market the question a smart home builder will ask is what do people today need and want. According to an article from Builder Magazine 7 of the top 10 selling home plans were in 2012 will be ranches (i.e. single level home designs). This article will explore why single level homes are increasing in popularity, the advantages and disadvantage of this type of design, and what features might be included in this type of home to make it more useable by people of all ages and capabilities. If you aren’t in the market for a new home you can also learn a few remodeling tips to take advantage of features of a single level home in your existing 2 level design.

Continue reading “Ranch home sales on the rise in 2012 – Ease of use & universal design are the drivers” »

Project Spotlight Update: Master Bathroom in Universal Design Living Laboratory (UDLL)

Saturday, September 24th, 2011
Tub transfer & decorative glass block window in universal design home

Decorative glass block window in universal design

 Seldom does a new home building project come along that can inspire, educate and liberate any person’s ability to use and enjoy the home than the Universal Design Living Laboratory (UDLL) being built by Rosemarie Rossetti and her husband Mark Leder. Several months ago (see the related blog post below) I focused on one feature in this home (the glass block windows and glass mural window used in the master bathroom). In this post let’s look at some features in the master bathroom to see thoughtful universal design and green building practices in action (Please note – this home – which is being built in Columbus Ohio – will be open for public touring later this year or early next year).  
 
 
Continue reading “Project Spotlight Update: Master Bathroom in Universal Design Living Laboratory (UDLL)” »

How to Choose the Right Type of Vinyl Replacement Windows

Friday, March 25th, 2011
White double hung vinyl replacement window tilts in for easy cleaning
White double hung vinyl replacement window tilts in for easy cleaning
Bow woodgrain window in a family room
Bow woodgrain window in a family room add light & seating

Are your old single pane metal framed or wood framed windows hard to operate and costing you a lot of money in excessive heating and cooling bills? If so the time is right to upgrade to a vinyl replacement window. The options and types of windows are varied. Here’s the answers to 5 frequently asked questions to guide you through the window selection process. Continue reading “How to Choose the Right Type of Vinyl Replacement Windows” »

7 Steps to Create a Safe and Stylish Universal and Accessible Shower Design

Friday, February 25th, 2011
Universal and accessible wet room shower design

Universal and accessible wet room shower designWalk in glass block shower, decorative grab bar, corner seat

Walk in glass block shower, decorative grab bar, corner seat
Walk in glass block shower, decorative grab bar, corner seat

Showers and bathtubs can be dangerous places for most anyone. Climbing over a bathtub rail, water and soap on the floor, a dark shower area which limits visibility are just a few common problems. How do you solve these challenges and create a relaxing, inviting shower which is safe as well? Read on to learn how:

Continue reading “7 Steps to Create a Safe and Stylish Universal and Accessible Shower Design” »

Honey, I Shrunk the Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling Project

Saturday, February 5th, 2011
Small Kitchen Remodeling Project

Small kitchen remodel Small bath remodel

small bath remodel project
small bath remodeling project

Maybe you remember the movie “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” about a crazy scientist’s miniaturization machine that accidently shrinks his kids (not exactly a cinematic classic – but kind of funny in parts). Well in these times of tight money and low real estate values many homeowner are also finding the need to shrink their bathroom, basement or kitchen remodeling ideas down to a size that fits their budget.

The key to smaller sized renovation projects is about creating cool, well planned spaces in reduced packages. If that sounds easier said than done here’s 5 practical tips to get started on a designer bathroom or designer kitchen on a 2011 budget: Continue reading “Honey, I Shrunk the Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling Project” »

6 Tips for Choosing Custom Shower Base for Your Next Bathroom Remodeling Project

Saturday, January 15th, 2011
Custom Solid surface corian shower base neo angle design
Custom expanded polystyrene shower base for straight & curved walls
Custom expanded polystyrene shower base for straight & curved walls

Choosing the right custom shower base for a bathroom remodeling project can be tough. The options are many – the right selection for you may not be obvious. Use these 6 tips to guide you through the process:  Continue reading “6 Tips for Choosing Custom Shower Base for Your Next Bathroom Remodeling Project” »

5 Tips For Selecting Safe & Stylish Bathroom Accessories and Decorative Grab Bars

Saturday, January 1st, 2011
Decorative Grab Bar and Towel Bar - Luxuria Line
Decorative Grab Bar and Towel Bar Chrome Finish Luxuria Line
Decorative Bathroom Safety Accessories Toilet Roll, Corner Shelf, Valve Ring, Soap Dish
Decorative Bathroom Safety Accessories Toilet Roll, Corner Shelf, Valve Ring, Soap Dish

Bathroom safety does not have to be boring or scream out “grandma lives here!” Let’s face the facts – many innovations in safe bathroom accessories were initially created for the institutional markets like hospitals, schools, and health care facilities. In fact most grab bars, safety towel bars and handrails in today’s homes still give the appearance that you’re scheduled for an overnight stay at St. Old Person’s Hospital. Who really wants this type of look? No one I know.

Today if you need a more universal design that is useable and accessible to everyone you don’t have to choose between safety and stylish design. Here’s 5 tips to help you select safe bathroom accessories which are stylish as well. Continue reading “5 Tips For Selecting Safe & Stylish Bathroom Accessories and Decorative Grab Bars” »

5 1/2 Kitchen Remodeling Design Tips to Improve The Market Value of Your Cleveland & Columbus Ohio Home

Saturday, December 11th, 2010
Kitchen Remodeling Columbus Ohio Contemporary Design
Contemporary Kitchen Design Columbus Ohio
Kitchen remodeling traditional design cleveland ohio
Traditional Kitchen Remodeling Project Cleveland Ohio

Are you’re considering a kitchen remodeling project in your Cleveland or Columbus home but don’t want to overspend and not be able to get your money back if you decide to sell down the road? Your concern is shared by many. How can you create a nice looking, functional kitchen for cooking and entertaining that won’t drain your wallet and will add the most market value to your home? Here’s 5 ½ steps to get you on the right path: Continue reading “5 1/2 Kitchen Remodeling Design Tips to Improve The Market Value of Your Cleveland & Columbus Ohio Home” »