Part Two: Home+ Design Applications

Continue to explore universal design principles adapted for independent, co-living, and multi-generational homes.

As human lifespans extend, the cost of living continues to rise, and lifestyles become increasingly diverse, there is increased pressure on maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle inside the home. This presents a compelling opportunity to proactively integrate universal design principles into everyday living, starting with the primary place of residence for people who are growing older.

Designers can employ adaptable accessibility features in the early stages of home development and construction to create barrier-free living environments that are capable of accommodating changing needs over time. In this intermediate Part 2 course, we will delve into case studies featuring individuals with wide-ranging needs and living situations. We will illustrate the significant benefits of adaptive design and planning techniques, building on the foundation of the baseline and universal design personas introduced in Part 1. Additional case studies will demonstrate how the appropriate integration of universal design principles in advance can help to ease lifestyle transitions, not only for people living in group settings, but also for those coping with sudden injuries and significant physical or mental changes.

Subject matter expertise provided by the ASID Universal Design Committee (formerly known as the Committee on Adaptive Living).

Note: Although not required, prior completion of Home +: Designing Adaptive Homes for Care, Comfort, and Changeability | Part 1: Beginning Concepts is strongly recommended.