Universal Design: Home Decor & Design Trends 2010

UNIVERSAL DESIGN

Universal Design is not a new concept, as it’s been around for some time. However, in the last few years the demand for products and design services, such as Aging-in-Place design that incorporates the principles of Universal Design,  have seen a boom.  The reason is simple: As the Baby Boomer generation retires in record numbers, more and more are seeking bathroom and kitchen designs and redesigns that contain fixtures and appliances that will make their lives easier as they enter their golden years. This demand is leading to the development of bathroom fixtures and kitchen appliances with modern styling that are easy to use no matter what the physical limitation – and this ease of use is leading to wide acceptance throughout the general population.

Aging-in-Place design expert, Jamie Goldberg of Jamie Goldberg Kitchen and Bath Design LLC, comments that:

People of all ages benefit from [Universal Design] conveniences like zero-maintenance countertops; roll-out trays, pull-outs, pan drawers and lazy susans in their base cabinets; task lighting below their wall cabinets; point-of-use appliances in their islands;  drawer-based microwaves and dishwashers; shower benches and slide bar showerheads.  But they become especially helpful to older homeowners who may be dealing with more fatigue, arthritis or balance issues. (From interview: Ask The Expert: Aging in Place and Universal Design for Kitchen & Bath )

Delta Faucets’ Pilar Touch20 is an easy to operate touch faucet that does away with the often hard to operate turn knobs- making this an ideal faucet for everyone from the passionate foodie to the grandmother with debilitating arthritis.

Belay In-Tile Handrail by Kohler provides the safety and security of a shower grab bar without looking like it is a grab bar. The focus is on the beautiful tiling in the shower rather than on the assistive device.

Universal Design Articles

• Ask The Expert: Aging in Place and Universal Design for Kitchen & Bath
• Universal Design: Fight Fatigue in the Kitchen with GelPro Mats
• Kitchen Remodeling with Universal Design
• Universal Design: 4 Kitchen Appliances to Meet All Needs
• Universal Design: 4 User Friendly Bathroom Products

Home Decor & Design Trends Over The Years

See how design trends have strengthened, changed course or have been relegated to obscurity:

• Design Trends Report 2009
• Design Trends Report 2008

Interior Design & Decor Trends 2010 Reports:

1. Eco-Redefined: Home Decor & Design Trends 2010
2. Sophisticated Glamour: Home Decor & Design Trends 2010
3. The Home Office:Home Decor & Design Trends 2010
4. Outdoor Living Room: Home Decor & Design Trends 2010
5. Universal Design: Home Decor & Design Trends 2010
6. Colorful Past: Home Decor & Design Trends 2010
7. Tech Decor: Home Decor & Design Trends 2010
8. Glimmer & Shimmer: Home Decor & Design Trends 2010
9. Zen-full Decor: Home Decor & Design Trends 2010
10. Passion for Fashion: Home Decor & Design Trends 2010

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