An evolution toward universal design, also known as barrier-free design, has been changing the lives of spinal cord injury (SCI) survivors and other wheelchair users for the better since the 1950s. This style of architecture incorporates universal design principles that blend wheelchair accessibility with simple clean lines, resulting in an end product that appears like it was naturally accessible, no fuss needed.
We have Ron Mace to thank for coining the term that built upon the work of Selwyn Goldsmith, author of "Designing for the Disabled.” He even invented the curb cut, or the dropped curb, which we're mightily grateful for. Since this style was invented, it has slowly grown into one that is admired by all. Known for many goals, including body fit, comfort, and social integration, here are five stunning examples of universal design in homes and communities around the world.1: Wounded Warrior “Patriot” Home (United States)
One of America's most famous architects is Michael Graves. He became a paraplegic in 2003, which inspired him to design as many things as he could for people with disabilities. One of the most noteworthy things he did for veterans was partner with the U.S. Army, the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), and other organizations in 2011 to build two prototype homes that are designed for active duty soldiers (who were wounded) and living at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
The aptly-named "Patriot Home" has stunning three gabled roofs in front. It also has front doors that open with RFID chips, lowered windows, window and door status sensors, a video monitoring system as well as a large open roof front porch. Read more about the home.
2: Enabling Village (Singapore)
In Singapore, the government recently made a push to create accessible housing in nearly every apartment block and it has been wildly successful. One of these initiatives is the Enabling Village, an entire community created for people with disabilities that provides everything from accessible shopping to accessible residences. 
It is an oasis of sorts for people who cannot walk and live in this part of Singapore. This photo shows the inner courtyard of the facility.
3: Orchard House (United Kingdom)
Another great universally-designed home is the Orchard House, which was created for a woman in the United Kingdom. This ultramodern home was designed from the top down to look like it wasn't wheelchair accessible per the customer's request. And the architect delivered. This home looks like a series of container homes strategically placed to create a compound-like feel with inner courtyards. It also has a discreet lift so the client can reach the second floor.
4: Spiral Bath Ramp (Japan)
In the Shizuoka Prefecture of Japan is the Jikka House, a guest house run by two women who also run a restaurant and provide meals and deliver them to the elderly in their city. They designed a guest house with this spiral ramp bath so all visitors can enjoy the healing benefits of the hot water. The designer of the bath created the 5-meter long spiraling ramp so that it could fit inside the small room it was housed. The minimalist space overlooks a vista of trees as well, proving the calm and beautiful space for the women to live out their days caring for others.
5: Prodel Residence (France)
Located north of Paris, France is the home of Jean-Yves Prodel, which also is known as the Prodel House. This universal design home features a kitchen with a cooktop that can be easily accessed by a wheelchair user. The kitchen counters also are lower than usual, or around 32 inches from the ground, and it features a variety of one-touch appliances that allow him easily prepare things like coffee or turn on the oven. View more photos of the home in an online photo gallery.
Remember, universal design benefits everybody in the community, not just people with disabilities. It is your duty as a person with a spinal cord injury to spread awareness about this exciting form of architecture that can change lives and inspire all at once. Discover 21 helpful home modifications that you can make to make everyday tasks easier.
How have you incorporated universal design into your home or life?
