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5 Things to Consider When Designing an Accessible Kitchen

by | Sep 6, 2018 | Kitchen & Bath

5 Things to Consider When Designing an Accessible Kitchen

There are a dozen and one reasons that you, as a homeowner, may be considering an accessible kitchen. Whatever those reasons are, at Mission West Kitchen & Bath we want to ensure that the process is as simple as possible for you. That’s why we’ve compiled five things to consider as you plan your new kitchen. Keep reading to discover what they are and then stop by our location at 905 Mission Street or give us a call at (626) 799-3503 if you have questions.

  1. Make countertops accessible

    2. Most kitchens are laid out with work zones in mind. This should be true of an accessible kitchen too. First, create work areas at the right height and accessibility. For example, if you are designing a kitchen to be used by a person in a wheelchair, then you would want a lower countertop and sink that allows them to wheel up and get to work. For elderly folks, you would likely want countertops with rounded edges to help prevent injury.

  2. Carefully consider storage

    3. You will need to carefully think about what items are regularly used in the kitchen and then make storage options that assure they are safely and easily accessible. You may do this by focusing on base cabinets with pull-outs, drawers, and roll-out shelves, or you can make higher shelves more accessible by adding pull-down features or electric-controlled shelves.

  3. Allow for easy appliance access

    4. As is true of countertops, your appliances (such as the fridge, range, and oven) should be easily accessible. This may require the adjustment of an oven mounted to the wall, or an addition of an under-counter oven that can be opened. A dishwasher with drawers would be easier than a conventional dishwasher, and certain fridges are better than others. You can visit our showroom to see options.

  4. Think about clearance around work spaces

    5. If you are designing for those with mobility issues to easily be in the kitchen, then you will also want to consider the clearance around doors, halls, etc. There should be plenty of room to maneuver in and out of the kitchen, its work zones, and any island or dining table contained within. The floor should also be a low-maintenance, slip-resistant option if you have elderly folks in the home.

  5. Choose the right handles, outlets, knobs, and control

    6. If you want to truly make life easier for a person who needs an accessible kitchen, then you will want to consider how everything is used. For example, handles are generally easier to grab onto compared to knobs. Touch-control faucets are easy to turn on and off, and the location of outlets and lighting controls should be accessible.

These are just a few of the things to think about when designing an accessible kitchen. Whether you are doing so in order to age into your home, or there is a person who needs these additions today, we are proud of the wide selection of bathroom appliances, fixtures, and more at Mission West Kitchen & Bath.