The kitchen is the heart of the home, but standard kitchens are built for standing cooks. Accessible kitchen design lets wheelchair users prepare meals safely and independently.
Clear floor space
Plan room to turn around. Many accessibility guidelines use a 60-inch turning circle, and wider aisles between counters make it easier to reach every appliance.
Counter heights and knee space
- A section of counter around 34 inches high, or lower, is easier to use from a seated position.
- Open knee space under the sink and a prep area allows a wheelchair user to roll under.
- Insulate or cover exposed pipes under the sink to prevent burns.
Storage within reach
- Full-extension drawers instead of base cabinets with doors
- Pull-down shelving in upper cabinets
- Pull-out pantry units
- D-shaped pulls that are easy to grip
Appliance choices
- Wall oven mounted at a comfortable height, ideally with a side-opening door.
- Cooktop with front or side controls and knee space underneath.
- Side-by-side or drawer refrigerator for easier reach.
- Dishwasher drawers raised off the floor.
Faucets, lighting and outlets
Lever or touch faucets, bright task lighting under the cabinets and outlets placed at the front of counters all reduce strain.
Plan the whole home
A kitchen remodel is often part of a larger plan. See our list of aging-in-place remodeling upgrades.
See our kitchen and home renovations, explore accessibility modifications, or book a free consultation at your Fayetteville-area home.