The principles of Universal Design include:

1. Equitable Use: The design is equally appealing to and functional for all users. For example, a telephone that features Braille, large numbers, volume control and lights up when ringing.

2. Flexibility in Use: The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities. For example, a television that allows the user to adjust volume and speed controls and choice of language.

3. Simple and Intuitive: The design eliminates unnecessary complexity for the user. For example, installing a thermostat in an easy-to-reach location.

4. Perceptible Information: The design uses pictorial, verbal and tactical cues, making it compatible regardless of conditions or ability. For example, control buttons on a microwave are labeled with text and meaningful icons that communicate necessary information effectively to the user.

5. Tolerance for Error: The design minimizes and provides warnings of hazards or errors. For example, installing a tub and shower with scald-guard control.

6. Low Physical Effort: The design allows the user to maintain a neutral body position and minimize repetitive actions and constant physical effort. For example, a hands-free, touch-control electronic kitchen faucet that simplifies kitchen tasks, such as the Pascal Culinary Faucet with SmartTouch functionality by Brizo.

7. Size and Space for Approach and Use: The design accommodates all users regardless of height, posture or mobility. For example, a home featuring wide interior doors and hallways and ramps, making it wheelchair accessible.

Products and environments developed based on these principles serve as solutions that help a wide range of people. When building or remodeling, especially in the kitchen, it is important to install products that incorporate elements of Universal Design. Replacing products that are not user-friendly with products featuring these elements will help improve the functionality, efficiency and viability of your home in the long run.

Here are some examples of ways to make your kitchen more user-friendly:

* Lower appliances to a more accessible height

* Stagger the height of kitchen counters in order to accommodate different tasks

* Install cabinets with pull-out shelving or a lazy Susan

* Replace twisting knobs on cabinets with lever handles for ease of opening doors

* Add under-counter knee space so homeowners can sit while working in the kitchen

* Mount outlets and switches at easily accessible locations

* Opt for a shallow sink and install hands-free faucets

Brizo recently introduced a revolutionary kitchen product which showcases the principles of Universal Design. The Pascal Culinary Faucet with SmartTouch functionality improves the homeowner's experience by incorporating a host of benefits including ease-of-use, convenience, and water and energy conservation. Combining hands-free and touch-control technology, users can activate water flow by either "tapping" anywhere on the faucet or handle or by using the hands-free option.

When making upgrades to the home it is important to install products that are easily accessible to homeowners of all ages and abilities. In addition to simplifying daily tasks and improving the homeowner's quality of life these small upgrades can increase the overall value and will broaden the range of marketability of your home.

Courtesy of ARAcontent