I sat down with registered interior designer, Erica Sibley, to chat about her strategies for incorporating accessibility into kitchen design. With 10 years’ experience in kitchens, Sibley has helped her clients build their dream kitchen while guiding them toward a layout that will serve them well into their golden years.
“I always start by getting my clients to consider the layout and structure of the space, the materials, and the details,” says Sibley.
“Open-concept homes might suit younger families, but it doesn’t always serve older adults well for many reasons. For example, the acoustics can be jarring for anyone whose hearing sensitivity is more acute,” she says. “Thinking about pathway clearances is also important. Allowing for larger doorways and entryways is helpful for those using a mobility device, and many people might also have a chair by their prep sites to avoid standing for long periods of time.”
Another aspect to consider in accessible kitchen design is reducing the space between countertops to shorten the distance when carrying a full pot from the sink to the stove. “In big kitchens, we’ll add a prep sink or a pot filler at the cooking surface,” she says.
Sibley prefers slip-resistant floor materials such as tile or vinyl, avoids using shiny or reflective surfaces and pays attention to the way a floor is laid. “Transitions between rooms or materials need to be minimized or eliminated, as they can be tripping hazards for people.”
The finish on countertops can be a factor as well, and Sibley suggests choosing countertops with rounded corners over the more popular pointed corners that are currently in style.
“Finally, I’ll guide clients to think about details such as the internal elements of the cabinets.” She cautions having too many wall cabinets. “In truth, most people can’t reach beyond the second shelf, and storing heavy items up there poses a safety issue when lifting items up or down. It’s easier to lift a stack of plates from a drawer instead of taking it down from a shelf.”
Reducing the need to stretch or reach for items is key, so she directs clients to rolling cabinets or internal rollouts, pull out-pantries, or LeMans corner units.
“Drawer and cabinet handles should be closed on either end and rounded to avoid catching a hand in them. Lever handles are also useful. For people with arthritis, knobs can be a real barrier.”
Finally, task lightning throughout the space can help people with vision issues. “Under-cabinet lighting can become handy task lighting. Positioned for the workspace, it doesn’t create glare or cast shadows onto the working surface.”
Accessible kitchen design is not just about accommodating those with disabilities, but also to make life easier for seniors, families with young children, and anyone who wants to create a comfortable and functional kitchen environment.