Design for Everyone: How Universal Features Make Life Easier Now and Later

Ever tried hauling a laundry basket, dodging a dog, and opening a door with your elbow all at the same time?

If you have, then congratulations, you’re already halfway to understanding why universal designDesign that makes spaces accessible and usable by all people regardless of age, size, ability or disability matters. It’s not about ramps and grab bars. It’s about smarter homes that work for everyone, every day, in every stage of life.

Start With the Right Mindset

Most people don’t think about accessibility until life forces them to. But here’s the thing: future-you is going to want a house that’s ready for surprises. Good design doesn’t just look nice. It lets you grow old, recover from injury, or help out your aging parents without knocking down walls.

That’s the magic of universal design. It’s not a trend. It’s insurance.

Our Story: What We Did, and Why It Works

When we built our house, we made our hallway just over four feet wide. At the time, it seemed like a nice luxury, like a roomy hotel hallway without the weird carpet patterns.

But now? That extra width has been a gift.

As someone now battling PsAPsoriatic arthritis (PsA), a type of inflammatory arthritis, is an autoimmune condition that primarily affects people with psoriasis, a skin condition, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints, and potentially affecting the skin and nails, I’ve had plenty of days where walking is tough. Sometimes I lean on the wall for support. Sometimes I use a walker. Either way, I can still get around without turning sideways or bumping into corners.

We carried that thinking into our kitchen too. The space between the island and counters? Wide enough to roll through, even if you’re in a chair. And yes, I’ve cooked dinner while sitting down more times than I can count.

It might look funny, but hey, dinner gets made. That’s what counts.

And here’s one I didn’t expect to matter so much: lever handles on all our doors. My grip gets weak when PsA flares up. There are days I simply can’t twist a knob. But a lever? Easy. I can even open doors with my elbow if I have to. Total game-changer.

What We’ve Learned

Universal design isn’t about expecting the worst. It’s about making choices now that keep life running smoothly, no matter what curveballs come later.

Here’s what we’ve learned:

• Wide doorways (32 to 36 inches) make a world of difference, whether you’re bringing in furniture or walking with a cane.
• No-step entries aren’t just for wheelchairs. They’re a blessing when you’re carrying groceries, chasing toddlers, or just tired.
• Lever handles beat knobs every time, especially when your hands are full or your grip isn’t strong.
• Open floor plans with wide walkways make movement natural. You won’t appreciate that until you’re sore, on crutches, or pushing a stroller.

The best part? These features don’t scream “hospital.” They look great, they function better, and they make life easier for everyone.

Accessibility isn’t a compromise. It’s an upgrade.

Wrap-Up: Design for Everyone, Including Future You

If you’re designing your dream home, remodeling a fixer-upper, or just making a few smart tweaks, think about how every space can work for every body. Universal Design means fewer regrets down the line and a whole lot more comfort today.

Want more ideas for future-proofing your space? Check out the full guide here or join the HouseChalk community where other smart homeowners are sharing real-life wins.