Cabin Design for a Flexible Future
by Jane Hampton, CID, Access Specialist
Dear Jane,
Thank you so much for responding
to our last question (“Getting
from the Cabin to the Lake,” Access Press, July 10, 2006).
This got us thinking further. We have always known that when we permanently
move up to our lake property, we will need to remodel and update
our cabin to provide the “comforts of home” versus “a
cabin escape.” As we begin the planning process, how can we
ensure that remodeling completed today will allow installation of
accessibility features if needed in the future?
Tom and Judy, Stillwater,
MN
Dear Tom and Judy,
I am so glad you found our
response to your question enlightening. Recognizing that you are
going to be remodeling anyway, now is the time to incorporate basic
design concepts that allow future “fine
tuning” to address mobility and/or aging issues.
Primary Entrance. Start by designating one entrance as a primary,
future accessible entrance. If you have a stoop or deck, construct
a level landing at the door so it is the same height as the threshold.
The size of this platform should be a minimum five feet by five feet
that would allow future installation of a ramp. Remember to also
provide a minimum five feet by five feet on the interior side of
the door so as to have ample floor space to enter and exit your home.
Winter elements of Minnesota also make it a good idea to have this
primary entrance covered by an exterior awning or roof.
One Level. Eliminate
the need to rely on steps when planning the interior space. Having
one bedroom and bathroom on the same level as the kitchen and living
area is ideal. These rooms should be located on the same level
as the accessible entrance. You may also want to consider having
an accessible “egress route,” disguised
as a deck off the bedroom.
Doors. Doors that are relocated or replaced should be widened to
36 inches (or install French doors that can both be opened to create
a wider opening).
Bathroom. When reconfigur-ing bathroom (and kitchen) areas, provide
a minimum 30"x48" clear floor space centered in front
of toilets, sinks, tub/showers and appliances. If you would rather
wait on this access feature, at least install the floor material
under the entire vanity so you don’t have to replace the
flooring later when modifying the vanity. Installing a sink and
countertop over a base cabinet which could be removed at a later
date is also another option. Providing a large mirror that extends
to the backsplash—allowing use when standing or sitting—can
be done now with little additional expense.
Before installing drywall or wall tile in bathrooms, reinforce all
walls surrounding the toilet, bathtub and/or shower to provide a
proper surface for future installation of grab bars. The preferred
method would be installing plywood over the wall studs extending
the full height and width of walls surrounding these fixtures.
If you are considering replacing the toilet, install a toilet with
a taller seat surface. All of the major plumbing manufacturers offer
a residential model that provides a higher toilet seat but looks
like a standard residential toilet.
Avoid luxury-sized whirlpool
tubs; they are difficult to get in and out of. A standard bathtub
is easier to get in and out of, and if needed it can accommodate
a bench seat and hand-held shower sprayer (for use when getting
into the tub becomes difficult and reach-ranges become limited).
The most flexible solution is a shower unit without a “curb,” but
we suggest installing them into a bathroom with a tile floor instead
of vinyl. Avoid shower units with doors, as they are typically
too narrow to get into easily if you have any mobility restrictions.
Instead use a weighted shower curtain at the entrance. Install
the curtain rod a few inches inside the shower to ensure that the
curtain drips inside the shower.
Kitchen. If you can, incorporate a pantry. When ordering new kitchen
cabinets, ask for pull-out shelves in base cabinets. Pull out cutting
boards are also useful; they let you sit while preparing a meal.
Otherwise, provide open knee space below one section of counter.
Select “D” shaped
cabinet pulls for cabinet doors and drawers. Any new faucet or
door hardware should allow lever operation, especially if you have
limited strength or grasping ability.
Floors. Firm floor surfaces such as laminate, low-pile carpet, tile
and hardwood are easier to maneuver over and more durable. The transition
from one floor surface to another should be level with no abrupt
rise. This will eliminate eliminate tripping issues.
These tips should give
you a starting point in assessing your remodeling options. During
your planning stage, visit a variety of manufacturer showrooms
to see the assortment of choices that can help make your cabin “home
sweet home.” ![]()
Do
you have a question for Jane and Accessibility Design? We’ll
cover all of your questions in future issues of Home Access Answers.
Please contact us: 952-925-0301, www.accessibilitydesign.com, info@accessibilitydesign.com
Jane Hampton, president of Accessibility Design, founded the company
in 1992 to enhance lives through design and project management. The
company provides design, consultation, project management, and product
recommendation services, specializing in home access for individuals
with disabilities at all stages of life.
