Accessible Living Areas
Design living spaces that welcome everyone with open layouts, flexible furniture, and thoughtful accessibility features.
Overview
Accessible living areas prioritize circulation, flexibility, and universal design principles. Open-plan layouts, careful furniture selection, and smart technology create spaces where everyone can participate comfortably.
Common Modifications
Open Plan Layout
Remove non-structural walls to create open flow between living, dining, and kitchen. Provides wheelchair turning space and visual connection between spaces.
Doorway Removal
Replace doors with wide archways where privacy isn't needed. Improves circulation and creates sense of space.
Flooring Transitions
Remove level changes and thresholds between rooms. Use transition strips where different floor types meet.
Accessible Switches
Lower switches and controls to 900-1200mm height. Large rocker switches easier to use than small toggles.
Smart Home Integration
Voice-controlled lighting, temperature, entertainment, and blinds. Reduces need for physical access to controls.
Furniture Selection
Appropriate seat heights (450-500mm), armrests for support, firm cushions, and furniture arrangement that allows wheelchair access.
Key Considerations
- Clear paths at least 1200mm wide
- Furniture arrangement for circulation
- Light switch and power point heights
- Window accessibility
- Entertainment system access
- Heating and cooling control
Cost Guide
$8,000 - $40,000+
Minor modifications like switch relocation and flooring transitions cost $8,000-$15,000. Major renovations with wall removal and smart home systems $25,000-$40,000+.
Note: Costs vary based on complexity, location, and materials. NDIS and My Aged Care may cover eligible modifications.
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