Residential Resources
The Center for Universal Design (CUD) is a national information, technical assistance, and research center that evaluates, develops, and promotes accessible and universal design in housing, commercial and public facilities, outdoor environments, and products. Its mission is to improve environments and products through design innovation, research, education and design assistance. Its website has practical information on home modifications, rehabilitation and curbless shower design. Click here for the most current issue of the IDEA Center Newsletter.
Practical Guide to Universal Home Design -- The Iowa Program for Assistive Technology is offering this free booklet to people who are interested in including universal design in a new or existing home. This booklet, which features a room by room check list, helps people consider their options in building a new home or remodeling an existing home and increases the flexibility of their homes. It was adapted, with permission, from an original created South East Metro Senior Agenda for Independent Living, St. Paul, Minnesota.
Design for Life, Montgomery County, MD certifies houses at two levels of accessibility. The focus of the iniative it to change the county's zoning language to make it easier for homeowners to add accessibility features to new and existing homes.
Easy Living with Universal Design, from the Prince William County, VA government shows simple ways to add universal design features to an existing houses and promotes universal design in new homes.
Universal Design Renovations, a website developed by a couple in Sydney, Australia who are documenting the process of renovating a house to allow for wheelchair accessibility and aging in place. It includes tips and ideas for home rennovation.