10% of today’s population have varying degrees of disability and it is predicted that by 2020 half the adult population will be aged over 50. If you have someone elderly or disabled living in your home, then it may be worth considering installing an inclusive kitchen, so here are some top tips from the KBSA:
1. Look for durable materials for your furniture throughout, especially if you are a wheelchair user.
2. Where large doors must be used, ask for 170 ̊ hinges so that they swing out of the way.
3. Pull-out units are more accessible and easy to keep clean, especially in base units.
4. For anyone with impaired grip sliding heavy items is much easier than lifting and carrying – bear this in mind and plan your worktop runs to minimise lifting and carrying.
5. Height-adjustable worksurfaces that can be adjusted for use by more than one person are ideal for an inclusive kitchen.
6. Use colour-contrasting edging on worktops for a visual cue.
7. Appliances – many manufacturers offer products with extra safety features such as ovens with telescopic shelves for safety, touch-controls, induction hobs with a whole range of safety features and remotely sited controls that can be situated with easy reach.
The right designer will be able to help you achieve increased independence and a fully accessible kitchen space. There are no formal qualifications in this field, so don’t be afraid to ask to see other work they have done, and speak to former clients to ensure that your chosen kitchen specialist has the right kind of knowledge and experience.
ENDS
ENQ: Carol Downing Communications Ltd
TEL: 01384 878777 Fax: 01384 872104 Email:
EDITOR’S NOTES
The KBSA is a national trade association founded 30 years ago to promote excellence within the interiors industry and champion consumer protection. It now boasts more than 400 members throughout the UK.
KBSA members are dedicated to upholding the association’s high standards of design, supply, installation and customer service throughout the interiors industry. All members are carefully vetted prior to admission and they must have been trading for at least two years in order to be considered for membership. All members offer a ConsumerCare deposit guarantee scheme or a more comprehensive, ConsumerCare Plus insurance backed workmanship warranty and deposit protection scheme.
In addition, all members are subject to regular monitoring of their businesses to ensure levels of quality are continually maintained.
Enquiries: Downing Dunmore PR
Telephone: 01384 878777 Fax: 01384 872104 Email: info@ddpr.biz
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