Accessibility

Wider hallways and turn zones allow individuals with wheelchairs to easily turn and navigate. Aim for a minimum of 5 feet wide on average; however, some in motorized chairs will need a more generous 7 feet radius to turn their chairs.

Q

The bathrooms are spacious, and the sinks are cantilevered for full wheelchair access. The extra-wide space also features sliding doors for clearance and space efficiency.

Q

This extended lowered counter is open underneath and accessible from both sides, inviting little ones or those in chairs to take part in the daily cooking activities. Chairs or stools can also slide under the counter, turning it into a makeshift snack bar.

Q

Include at least one workspace countertop at a height of 30 inches or less, to accomodate someone sitting while doing tasks. Conversely, if the person using this space is very tall, consider raising the countertop to a height that will keep things ergonomic.

Q

If you have room for an island or a peninsula that accommodates seating, make the counter 30 inches high — the same as table height. This offers optimal seating for everyone, regardless of age or mobility. Little ones can shimmy up onto a regular chair, and older folk don't have to hoist themselves up onto a bar stool. A wheelchair can just glide on in too.

Q

Adjustable countertops and cabinets are another great feature to consider when planning your kitchen. Pressalit Care’s height-adjustable lifting units enable you to create an optimal and ergonomically correct working environment, allowing

Q

Workstations If someone is in a wheelchair, plan workstations that have clear space below them to allow for easy reach to fixtures. Knee space should be a minimum of 30 inches wide. Ensure that any exposed plumbing is insulated, covered or behind door panels to prevent any burns from hot pipes. You could also have retractable doors closing off the space below the workstation when it's not in use.

Q

Another alternative to freeing up toe space is to have wall-mounted cabinets, eliminating the toe kick altogether. This option allows for complete customization of countertop height and toe space.

Q

When planning a kitchen, opt for 42 inches to an optimal 48 inches between counters. This allows for more than one cook in the kitchen and also lets anyone in a wheelchair or walker easily function without banging into cabinets. In a U-shape kitchen, plan for 60 inches of clearance minimum between opposing counters. This allows a wheelchair to have a comfortable turning radius.

Q

If traffic passes behind a seated diner at a peninsula or island, plan for at least 60 inches of space behind to allow passage for a person in a wheelchair.

Q

Raised toe kicks allow greater foot and toe clearance for anyone in a wheelchair, and let them get closer to the countertop or workstation. The toe kicks should be a minimum of 9 inches high. The kitchen shown here just about eliminates them altogether, opting for contemporary furniture legs for support that are still easy to work around.

Q