Interior Designer Resources Directory :: Interior Design Article
Unlimited By Design.. Are We Taking Advantage of the Opportunities?
When creating a design for our clients, how many of us think about how well that design will work for the client 10 years from now or more? I am not talking specifically about the "decorative" aspects such as color, fabrics, window treatments, etc.. I am talking about specifications for appliances, plumbing fixtures, furniture, and the space planning itself --- both within each area and also in the layout of the entire home or office. Thinking in "Unlimited Design" terms, gives us an additional niche in the design world. It can create additional opportunities with existing clients --- which we know is a more productive marketing ploy than just concentrating on increasing your client base. These are people with whom you have already established a relationship.
What a gift we can give our clients by creating spaces that "age" gracefully, that are unlimited by the possible physical limitations of the clients as they grow older. Or maybe that "gift" is the creation of spaces that easily adapt for the possibility of older relatives moving into the home.
AARP research shows that 82% of Americans 45 and older who own their own home would prefer to remain in that home even if needing care. The problem is that though most of them have given some thought to where they want to live, they have not considered their needs if there is a decline in health. They placed more importance on the ability to take care of chores and errands than on personal care. Research shows us that most accidents that lead to permanent loss of independence occur in the home and loss of independence is the greatest fear of the elderly --- and isn't that true for most of us?
Often with some forethought, an honest appraisal of the home's "challenges" and even minor changes, many of these injuries could be avoided and the home could be re-designed to be a welcome retreat rather than a minefield of hazards.
One of the major challenges is that many of the homes in which older Americans are living have been built a number of years ago, which usually means narrow hallways, narrow doors, small bathrooms and probably no _______________ entry. All it takes is one fall and the person may never be able to come home again. Or it may be a hip or knee replacement, which can affect a client of any age. Suddenly those stairs to the only bedroom and/or full bath seem like Mt. Everest --- and if they CAN get to a bathroom, using it becomes a major production. Isn't it better to help them to be proactive instead of reactive.
What are some things that we can suggest or specify?
Encourage wide hallways and doors. You do not need to mention wheelchair accessibility or any kind of physical limitation --- it just creates a more spacious, inviting area. With so many mini-mansions, we still do not see space used effectively. If they insist on multi-level homes of such great proportions, then encourage the installation of an elevator during the construction phase. Try the approach that if elderly relatives visit, they will not be limited to the first floor!
Let's eliminate those sharp corners --- particularly glass --- on furniture. And consider angling or curving the sharp edges of built-ins and tub surrounds. They can be a hazard for any age, and can be especially dangerous to run when they are somewhere between your shin and your hip!
Why not suggest at least one curbless shower with a fold-down seat and a handheld showerhead? Again, forget the mention of future frailty. What about making it easier to bathe the dog or the children or grandchildren, as well as the additional versatility offered?
Wouldn't it be an advantage to have each of the double sinks at a different height specifically to fit the clients? And who said that all kitchen or bath counters have to be a particular height? For some who are able-bodied, constantly bending over so much can be a strain on their backs. Is a combination toilet/bidet with a self-opening and closing lid and seat really just a luxury? Not if you are physically challenged and appreciate easier cleanliness and less energy expended. We strive to be unique and creative in our designs, so why not vary the height and construction of the upholstered furniture we design and specify? A luxurious, down-filled sofa can be joined by an arm chair with a slightly higher, firmer seat. There are many pieces of furniture designed for "commercial" design that can work particularly well in residential settings. Think about the many chairs with pivoting work surfaces. These offer flexibility for someone confined to a chair, as they can be pushed to the side. Other options are often found in the "health care" furniture lines. Whether they be more easily operated recliners or chairs with flip up side tables, there are many possibilities which should not be overlooked. Though these might be additions at a later date when specifically needed, there are many adjustable beds, both in residential and commercial lines, that may just offer comfort at this point, but could mean more independence at a later date.
And think about other areas in which the loss of independence could be eliminated. A remote control is often the subject of many jokes regarding couch potatoes and video equipment --- but a remote control can work miracles in so many ways as far as independence is concerned. Whether it be the ability to open a window at the press of a button, or operate the window treatments, adjust the musical equipment, operate the lights throughout the house, or even be able to unlock the entry door without having to physically get to the door itself, these can all be wonderful gifts for someone who is suffering from some sort of physical limitations.
As design professionals we so often talk about our responsibility for the health, safety, and welfare of the public, yet do we really go far enough? Are our designs and specifications helping them to be proactive rather than reactive? Will they act as preventative measures for the future to allow our clients the ability to live in their homes as long as possible?
How "unlimited" are the designs we create for our clients? Just imagine ---- by thinking not just "outside the box", but beyond the present, we will help to create spaces that age as gracefully as our clients hope to --- all while expanding our own opportunities! Let's move forward toward an "unlimited" future which will not only help our clients, but could also mean a more independent life for someone in our own family.
Drue Lawlor, FASID, is a certified interior designer in the state of California where she is one of the principals of CLP Interiors in Pasadena. In addition to her interior design practice, Drue holds a principal position in education-works, inc. a professional development seminar group which develops, produces and delivers continuing education seminars for the design professional. Drue has also been a college instructor since 1979 at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles and has taught at the University of Southern California's School of Fine Arts, Pasadena City College, and Santa Monica College. Most recently she has developed several courses for the profession on accessibility. She can be reached at drue@education-works.com
