How to furnish an apartment for a person with a disability?

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Place the kitchen countertop at a height of about 75-85 cm. Instead of a stall, opt for an open shower with a seat and handles. Stock up on a smart home system. Consult your apartment design with an occupational therapist or an architect specializing in creating accessible spaces. For more interesting information, visit the home page of the PdD portal

December 3 marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. On this occasion, we look at how to design a barrier-free interior.

When decorating an apartment for a person with a disability, you need to pay special attention to several aspects

Photo: DC Studio © Freepik

Comfortable space for mobility

The width of doors should be at least 90 cm, and corridors should be min. 120 cm. This allows wheelchairs to move freely. It is a good idea to remove thresholds completely or replace them with low ramps. For floor finishes, use non-slip materials to create a uniform surface. Avoid level differences. These can impede mobility.

Make sure walkways throughout the house are wide enough for wheelchairs to move freely

An accessible kitchen

The kitchen should be designed for easy access to all appliances and work surfaces. The best solution will be countertops with adjustable height. However, if you can't install them, place the countertop at a height of about 75-85 cm. It is important that underneath it there is a clear space to allow a wheelchair to drive up. Lower drawers with a push-to-open mechanism and rotating shelves in upper cabinets will facilitate organization and free access to items. Also, all household appliances should be placed at a height that allows for comfortable use. It's a good idea to choose a cooktop with knobs located in front.

The kitchen worktop should be at a height of about 75-85 cm

Barrier-free bathroom

This room requires special attention. Instead of a stall, opt for an open shower with a seat and handles for safety. The faucet should be installed so that it can be used comfortably from a seated position, which is about 85-100 cm from the floor. The minimum maneuvering space in front of the shower, on the other hand, should be 150×150 cm. The toilet should be mounted at a height of 45-50 cm. Place dedicated handles on the sides for easy transfer from the wheelchair to the toilet bowl. Locate the sink at a height of 80-85 cm. Remember to leave free space underneath. Choose a mixer with a long lever or a touchless-operated model.

Learn more about designing a barrier-free bathroom

Opt for an open shower with a seat and handles for safety.

Photo cdc © UNSPLASH

Comfort in the living room and bedroom

Comfort and the ability to move freely are what matters in these rooms. Providing maneuvering space with a width of min. 150 cm is an absolute necessity. Tables, desks and other work surfaces should be 70-75 cm high. As for the bed, a height-adjustable model will work best. It is worth considering installing a smart home system. Blinds, lighting or heating controlled by an app or remote control will greatly facilitate the daily functioning of a person with a disability.

Make sure that a person with a disability has free access to all needed furnishings

Safety first

The last but extremely important aspect is safety. Install handrails and handholds along the walls in hallways, bathrooms and wherever else they may be needed. Take care of proper lighting. This will eliminate shadows and provide good visibility. Motion sensor fixtures will also work well. Remember, however, that each person with a disability has unique needs. It's a good idea to consult with, for example, an occupational therapist or an architect who specializes in designing accessible housing. Adapting a space does not have to mean compromising on aesthetics. Thoughtful design combines functionality with beautiful design, creating a place that not only makes life easier, but also pleases the eye.