EXTERIOR
* No-step pathway from sidewalk or driveway (no steeper than 1 inch high to 12 inches slope)
* No-step entry
* Railings on steps and porches
* Illuminated doorbell
* Additional lighting
* Bench/shelf by door for packages
* Roof overhangs
* Landscaping for low maintenance and easy access
GENERAL
* Lever door handles
* Swing-away hinges to widen doorways
* Flat paint to reduce glare
* Slip-resistant flooring
* Increased lighting
* Front-loading washer and dryer
* 32-inch wide clearance through doorways (minimum)
* Wall switches and controls 44 inches above floor
* Electrical outlets 15 inches above floor
* Loop handles on cabinets and drawers
* Handrails on both sides of stairways
KITCHEN
* Varying counter heights
* Lower wall cabinets
* Adjustable and pull-out shelving
* Front controls on appliances
* Single-lever faucets with anti-scald feature
BATHROOM
* Non-slip flooring
* Sinks that accommodate persons in a seated position
* Hand-held shower fixture
* Shower seat
* Grab bars
* No-threshold shower
* Single-lever faucets with anti-scald feature
FUTURE MODIFICATIONS
UD features to plan for now, for possible later implementation:
* First-floor bathroom with no-threshold shower
* First-floor bedroom, kitchen and entertainment area
* 48-inch wide stairways and hallways (minimum)
* Closet over closet for elevator at later date
* Bathroom walls reinforced for grab bar installation
* 60-inch diameter turning areas for wheelchairs in kitchen and bathroom
* 84-inch vertical garage door clearance
Source: Universal Design: Designing homes that enable everyone to prosper
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/universaldesign/pdf/universal-design.pdf