Universal Design Ideas for Accessibility
In today’s world, accessible and inclusive spaces aren’t just a nice-to-have—they’re essential. Whether you're designing a family home in Langley or updating a commercial office space, universal design ensures that people of all ages, abilities, and circumstances can use a space safely and comfortably.
As a general contractor serving Langley, BC, and surrounding communities, we’re seeing more clients prioritize inclusive design—whether it's for aging in place, accommodating staff or customers with mobility challenges, or simply planning ahead. In this blog, we’ll explore how universal design principles can be applied to both home and workplace environments, with practical ideas to help you build or renovate more inclusively.
What Is Universal Design?
Universal design refers to a design philosophy that aims to make environments usable by all people, without the need for specialized modifications. Unlike accessible design, which typically serves specific needs, universal design is about creating environments that are flexible, intuitive, and user-friendly for everyone—from a parent with a stroller to an employee using a wheelchair.
The 7 Principles of Universal Design:
Equitable Use – Useful for people with diverse abilities
Flexibility in Use – Accommodates a wide range of preferences and abilities
Simple and Intuitive – Easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience
Perceptible Information – Effectively communicates information regardless of sensory abilities
Tolerance for Error – Minimizes hazards and the consequences of accidental actions
Low Physical Effort – Can be used comfortably with minimal fatigue
Size and Space for Approach and Use – Adequate space for mobility, reach, and movement
Why Universal Design Is Gaining Traction
In Langley and across the Fraser Valley, we’re seeing increased demand for accessible design in both residential and commercial settings:
Homeowners want to age in place or accommodate aging relatives.
Employers want to create inclusive workplaces for employees and customers.
Public-facing businesses must often meet accessibility codes, but many are going above and beyond to welcome all.
Renovations are becoming opportunities to future-proof spaces, ensuring they’ll remain functional as needs change.
Universal Design at Home: Room-by-Room Inspiration
Let’s explore how to bring universal design into your home, one space at a time.
1. Entrances and Doorways
No-step entryways make entering the home easier for wheelchair users, seniors, or anyone with limited mobility.
Install wider doorways (36”) and lever-style handles to make transitions easier.
Motion-sensor lighting at the entrance improves safety and visibility in low-light conditions.
2. Kitchens
Pull-out drawers instead of deep cabinets increase visibility and reach.
Multi-level counters allow both standing and seated use.
Touch-activated faucets or single-lever handles are easier to operate.
Side-hinged ovens and lowered microwaves provide better access for everyone.
3. Bathrooms
Curbless showers allow roll-in or walk-in access with no tripping hazard.
Floating vanities leave space beneath for seated users.
Add reinforced walls for grab bars—even if you’re not installing them now.
Choose non-slip tiles and easy-to-use thermostatic controls for safety.
4. Living Areas and Bedrooms
Wide clearances and low-pile flooring ease movement for wheelchairs or walkers.
Smart lighting and automated blinds improve independence for people with mobility or vision issues.
Accessible storage at multiple heights helps everyone—from kids to seniors—use the space independently.
Universal Design in the Workplace
Whether you run a retail shop, a busy office, or a light industrial facility, universal design helps create an environment where employees, clients, and customers of all abilities feel welcome and safe.
1. Reception Areas and Entrances
Automatic doors or low-threshold entries make it easier for people with mobility devices or deliveries.
Lowered counters accommodate wheelchair users during check-in or payment.
Visual and tactile signage helps users with visual impairments.
2. Workspaces
Use adjustable-height desks and workstations to accommodate a variety of needs.
Ensure wide corridors (at least 42”) and clear sightlines for easy navigation.
Install sound-absorbing materials to reduce background noise for neurodivergent or hearing-impaired employees.
3. Meeting and Break Rooms
Offer flexible seating—a mix of chairs with and without arms, with varied heights.
Ensure appliances and controls (microwaves, coffee machines, light switches) are accessible from a seated position.
Place visual cues on floors or walls to indicate paths or zones (e.g., colour-coded areas, tactile markers).
4. Washrooms
At least one accessible washroom should be available to both employees and visitors.
Include grab bars, motion-activated faucets, and wide turning radiuses.
Baby changing stations at lower heights and inclusive designs (for all genders) are a welcome addition.
Smart Technology and Universal Design
Modern smart tech can dramatically enhance accessibility in both homes and workplaces. Here are a few universal design-friendly devices:
Voice-activated assistants (Google Home, Alexa) for lights, thermostats, and reminders
Smart thermostats with large, high-contrast screens
Video doorbells that send alerts to phones
Automated window treatments
Touch-free lighting and faucets
Not only do these features improve usability for people with disabilities, they also make life easier for everyone.
Flooring, Lighting, and Surfaces
Across both residential and commercial settings, these design elements make a big impact:
Flooring
Use non-slip surfaces like vinyl plank, cork, or textured tile
Avoid transitions or changes in floor level wherever possible
Consider colour contrast between floors and walls for better visibility
Lighting
Layer lighting with a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting
Use motion sensors in entryways, hallways, and restrooms
Install dimmers and smart controls for flexibility
Surfaces and Hardware
Matte finishes help reduce glare
Choose D-pull handles or levers over knobs
Keep frequently used controls between 15–48 inches from the floor
Universal Design for Outdoor Spaces
Langley’s beautiful outdoor lifestyle makes patios, pathways, and entrances an important part of design.
For Homes:
Zero-threshold patio doors to create seamless indoor-outdoor flow
Raised garden beds for accessible gardening
Slip-resistant decking and wider pathways
For Workplaces:
Accessible parking stalls with direct routes to entrances
Covered waiting areas or outdoor seating with ample shade
Clear, level walkways for safe navigation
Long-Term Benefits of Universal Design
Whether you're building a custom home in Brookswood or updating a storefront in Fort Langley, universal design is a smart investment:
Increased property value: Universally designed spaces are more desirable on the real estate market.
Future-proofing: Save on costly renovations down the road by planning ahead.
Improved safety and comfort: For everyone—from kids and seniors to employees and customers.
Better user experience: Happy clients and comfortable staff are the foundation of a thriving business.
Local Considerations for Langley, BC
As Langley-based contractors, we’re always thinking about:
Wet weather: Covered entries and non-slip surfaces are a must.
Growing families and multi-generational households: Flexibility in design supports changing needs.
Small businesses and home-based entrepreneurs: Many of our clients work from home or serve the public—universal design helps meet everyone’s needs.
We Build with Everyone in Mind
At Oakhaven, we believe that well-designed homes and businesses should work for everyone. Whether you're renovating your house, upgrading your office, or designing from scratch, our team brings expertise, compassion, and craftsmanship to every accessible project.
We work with homeowners, business owners, designers, and occupational therapists to create custom spaces that don’t just meet code—but exceed expectations.
Ready to Build or Renovate with Universal Design in Mind?
Let’s talk. We offer free consultations and serve clients throughout Langley, Surrey, Aldergrove, and the Fraser Valley.
📍 Serving Langley, Surrey, Cloverdale, Aldergrove, Abbotsford and beyond.
📞 604-409-8241
📧 admin@oakhavenltd.com
🌐 https://www.oakhavenltd.com/
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