Universal Design

We Provide Expertise in Universal Design and Aging in Place Accommodations

Baby boomers and maturing Americans agree there is no place like home. According to a recent poll by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), nearly 80 percent of Americans hope to stay in their current home as long, and as comfortably, as possible.

Enter the latest trends to hit the custom home market in decades – Aging in Place and Universal Design. Aging in Place is a concept that allows homeowners to remain in their homes safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income or ability level.

Complementing that concept is the principle of Universal Design, which is the design of products, services, and environments usable by as many people as possible regardless of age, ability, or situation. Both design principles work together to ensure that Americans who want to stay in their current homes as long as possible are able to do so.

There are three segments of Aging in Place (AIP) customers, including:

Those without urgent needs who wish to age in place but have no immediate or significant health issues.

Those with progressive, condition-based needs who have a chronic or progressive condition that requires special modifications to age in place.

Those with immediate needs who have experienced an abrupt or traumatic change that necessitates modifications be made to the home.

Each segment requires a different level of design considerations, which can include appropriate bathroom fixtures, lowered kitchen cabinet heights, good lighting, appropriate doors and entryways, user-friendly HVAC systems, vehicular accessibility, and large utility/laundry rooms.

Homeowners who have debilitating injuries, health problems or physical handicaps need to consult with a health care professional and an experienced builder or remodeler to create a comfortable and accessible home environment.

Aurora Builders is prepared to meet the needs of the fastest growing segment of the aging population by having earned the Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) designation from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).