Designing a kitchen for a disabled person is difficult, as different disabilities require different considerations.
For wheelchairs a lower countertop height is advisable. Keeping tops at a desk height of 750mm as opposed to 920mm makes it easier to use as a food prep area for someone in a wheelchair. Also try to make desk areas where a user can pull into. This will reduce storage space but is needed to give an effective food preparation area. Avoid sharp corners and edges with your countertops. Modern kitchens can be made with curved cabinetry and countertops. It is a chance to show some design flair and creativity rather than just making a purely functional room.
Storage
Drawers are a better storage option than cupboards. Good quality drawer runners with soft close mechanisms make the drawers easier to open and close, and by using full extension drawer runners you can maximise the storage area. You can even go as far as installing electric drawer openers to make opening even easier. Fridge drawers and dish drawers are much easier to use and get around the height issue for wheelchairs, as well as giving better access for the visually impaired.
Appliances and Cookers
Induction cook tops are great. As they heat the pots and pans they do not get excessively hot themselves. For a blind person relying on touch an induction cook top greatly reduces the chance of burns to hands. Oven should be installed beneath the counter where the user is low to the ground and at countertop height if the user stands to cook. Install a pyrolytic over so that cleaning is easier.
Countertops
Corian is a great material as it very tactile and warm to the touch. Solid timber is another great option for the same reasons. Stainless steel and stone tops while being more hard wearing do not feel as nice and can be very unforgiving regarding breakages.
Flooring
Cork tiles or vinyl are the preferred options. Ceramic tiles are too hard and cold should someone fall on them. Carpet is too difficult to keep clean and timber can have slipping issues. There are some wonderful designs and colors available in cork and vinyl so do not think that this needs to be a boring option.
Lighting
More and intense lighting may be required. If the user has failing eyesight allow more concentrated light in the working area of the kitchen. Add more lights than you would normally use and do not be concerned that the room may appear too bright or even sterile. By simply adding a dimmer switch to the circuit the user can adjust the output but it is far better to allow for more light than too little. Explore the LED lighting options available as they are more energy efficient and give off less heat.
Finally give the room as much room as possible. Tight spaces and turning areas can quickly become barriers.
These are just a few ideas and issues to consider if you are planning a kitchen for a disabled person. Before commencing a project talk to a professional about your individual needs.
Debra DeLorenzo - Debra DeLorenzo is a fully qualified bathroom and kitchen designer (CKD/CBDNZ) and has been in the design industry since 1996. She has won ...
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