Creating Welcoming Homes: Universal Design Features for Entryways

When it comes to designing homes, the entrance serves as the first impression and gateway to the home. Integrating universal design features into both the exterior and interior of house entrances ensures that homes are not only aesthetically pleasing but also inclusive and accessible to residents and guests.

Exterior Universal Design Features for entrances:

• Step-Free Entry: Eliminating steps provides barrier-free access for a variety of users, including individuals with mobility aids or wheelchairs, parents with strollers, people carrying packages, people with an injury, and anyone who may have difficulty navigating steps.

• Overhang: An overhang provides protection from rain, snow, or sun while people are entering or exiting the home.

• Wide Pathways: Ample space around the entrance allows for easy navigation, accommodating individuals with mobility aids and ensuring a comfortable passage for everyone.

• Lighting: Well-lit pathways and entrances enhance visibility, making it easier for everyone to navigate safely, particularly at night.

• Clear Signage: Clear signage (e.g. address number) with contrasting colors and large fonts aids individuals with visual impairments in locating the entrance and navigating the space independently. It also helps delivery people and first responders locate a house.

Interior Universal Design Features for entryways:

• Wide Doorways: Doors with wider openings facilitate easy passage for individuals with mobility aids or wheelchairs, parents with strollers, people carrying packages, people with an injury, and furniture movers. The width of an exterior door should be at least 32 inches (36" or larger is ideal).

• Easy-to-use handle: Lever-style door handles are easier to operate than traditional knobs or thumb-latch handles, making them accessible to individuals with limited hand dexterity.

• Seating: Placing a piece of furniture such as a bench near the entrance provides a useful spot for setting down items upon entry, or for visitors to take off or put on their shoes.

• Transitions: Low or zero-threshold transitions allow for smooth transitions between rooms, eliminate tripping hazards, and provide seamless access throughout the home.

• Safety: Including sidelight windows or a peephole on the door allows residents to see visitors before opening the door.

Benefits of Universal Design:

• Inclusivity: Universal design features increase the number of people, regardless of age, mobility, or ability, who can access and navigate the home comfortably and safely.

• Future-Proofing: Incorporating universal design principles increases the longevity and marketability of the home by accommodating changing needs and lifestyles. These features support the ability of residents to age-in-place in their forever home.

• Enhanced Aesthetics: Universal design does not compromise on aesthetics; rather, it seamlessly integrates accessibility features into the overall design, creating visually appealing spaces.

• Independence: By removing barriers and obstacles, universal design promotes independence and autonomy, allowing individuals to live more safely and comfortably in their homes.

House entrances are more than just functional elements of a home; they serve as the gateway to inclusivity, accessibility, and comfort for all residents and visitors. By incorporating universal design features into both the exterior and interior of entrances, homeowners can create welcoming spaces that promote safety and enrich the experience of everyone who crosses the threshold.

At Cadence Interiors, we are passionate about designing homes with usability and longevity in mind. We believe that people of all ages can benefit from thoughtful design that will grow with you and adapt to your needs so that you can live comfortably and safely in your own home. We specialize in applying Universal Design and Accessible Design principles to your home to increase your quality of life. Visit our Design Services page to explore how we can work together to reach your goals for your home.

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