Universal Design Features and Product Characteristics for Kitchens

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to answer the question: What universal design features and products are essential for kitchens in new, single-family housing to be universally designed? One-hundred and one respondents with a strong working knowledge of universal design and housing completed a Web-based survey. The survey results identified design features and product characteristics considered essential and/or advanced for kitchens. Twelve of the 16 general features presented for kitchens were considered essential, including adjustable height shelves in wall cabinets, stretches of continuous countertops (same height) at 32” - 34”, and an option for high toe kick space (9” x 6”). Essential features for the kitchen sink included 27” - 29” minimum clear knee space under the sink (with pipe protection required), a disposal or two-basin sink, and a rear mounted drain. Essential characteristics of the faucet included faucet controls with single levers (crosses or loops), non-slip textures, an easy to control flow rate and easy to adjust temperature, and a display/label with easy to distinguish hot from cold with letters and color. This article also identified the design features and product characteristics where the percentage difference between the categories of essential and advanced was 10% or less.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Sandra C. Hartje

Sandra C. Hartje is Associate Professor, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, WA.