Community News

Published in the Bozeman Chronicle, May 2008. Aging gracefully is at the forefront of many people's minds. So how does that have any tie-in with a real estate article? Actually, more than you might think due to a concept called Universal Design. A relatively new concept that has appealed to a wide range of consumers, Universal Design is essentially adding accessibility to a home for people with physical limitations (whether they are currently present or simply potential in the future) in a non-stigmatizing and attractive way. This allows homeowners to “age gracefully” in their own homes when their health status changes.

Choosing a residence is a decision that homebuyers don't take lightly, but oftentimes the choice may be somewhat short-sighted. A home's layout and design ultimately decide how someone will use and enjoy the home after the purchase, and even how long they will be able to stay in the home. Universal Design is a user-friendly approach to designing homes where people of any culture, age, size, weight, race, gender, and ability can live comfortably today and in the future. A home's design and amenities are modified to take into consideration physical needs that require special accommodations. This includes a wide range of physical issues including poor eyesight, bad knees, or the need to use a walker or wheelchair, just to name a few.

While homes can certainly be retrofitted once the particular accommodations become necessary, there are definitely advantages to planning ahead while building a home to implement some general design features. In fact, it's estimated to be about one-third less expensive to add Universal Design features while building a home versus remodeling down the road. Additionally, architects and designers who are on board with the concept can integrate many of the features to be nearly “invisible” in a home instead of standing out as eyesores. Incorporating the principles from the ground up can eliminate many of the limitations that accompany traditional home design and construction.

There are seven guiding principles of Universal Design features according to the Universal Design Alliance which are as follows:

1. Equitable use – the design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities and will not disadvantage any user. For example, controls mounted on the front of a range allow wheelchair accessibility.
2. Flexible use – the design accommodates a range of abilities and preferences including choice in methods of use or adaptability to the user's pace.
3. Simple, intuitive use – easily understood design without regard to the user's experience, knowledge, or language skills.
4. Perceptible information – the design communicates the necessary information effectively to the user. An example is a doorbell accompanied by a flashing light to alert a user with limited hearing.
5. Tolerance for error – the design minimizes hazards and adverse consequences of unintended actions.
6. Low physical effort – the design can be used efficiently and comfortably.
7. Size and space for approach and use – adequate space is provided to approach, reach, and use an area regardless of the user's physical size, posture, or mobility. A simple example is doorways that are wide enough for wheelchairs or walkers to easily navigate.

A prime example of Universal Design is right here in Bozeman in the form of The Knolls at Hillcrest which is Montana's first active adult lifestyle community, designed for those 55 and older. Accessibility and the principles of Universal Design have been fully utilized throughout this project. The home features can be fully enjoyed by owners now with further peace of mind when planning for the future and changing needs. Just a few of the design features are one-story living, wide interior doors, and hallways, lever-style door handles throughout, and lighting considerations including ample natural daylight and many adjustable lighting controls.

Most people prefer the thought of growing old in the comfort of their own homes versus being relocated to some type of assisted living facility. With 25% of the population 50 years or older, and with the greatest amount of wealth being possessed by this demographic group, we could certainly see a shift in people remaining in their well-designed homes with assistance or care coming to them instead of moving to institutionalized living situations. As life expectancy continues to rise along with improvements in the medical field, the concept of Universal Design should continue to thrive.

Robyn Erlenbush is the owner of ERA Landmark Real Estate (with offices in Bozeman, Big Sky, Livingston, and Clyde Park) and Intermountain Property Management. She can be reached at robyn@eralandmark.com.