Following on from our recent article on Accessible Bathrooms, we are turning our attention to another essential area of the home: the kitchen.
Accessible kitchens aren’t just ordinary kitchens with a few tweaks. Careful design can ensure ease of use, safety, and independence for everyone, especially those with disabilities or limited mobility.
What Sets an Accessible Kitchen Apart?
Tailored Layout and Ergonomic Design
- User-Specific Design – Accessible kitchens should be tailored to meet the needs of everyone that will use them, regardless of disability. Whether that be incorporating wide spaces to suit a wheelchair user, or designing with contrasting colours to suit someone with a sight impairment. Design is the first step to making sure the kitchen is inclusive.
- Ergonomic workspaces are common in accessible kitchens. Counters can be height adjustable for ease of access and to reduce strain during everyday kitchen tasks. Kitchen designs can also be adapted to the user’s specific needs and a wide range of disabilities.
- User-friendly storage is essential. Cabinets and drawers should be easy to reach and operate. Pull-out shelves and soft-close mechanisms are incredibley useful, making time spent in the kitchen more enjoyable and empowering. They also reduce awkward bending or stretching. Kitchen fitments can often be custom adapted to suit a broad range of needs.
Specialised Appliances and Fixtures
- Specialised appliances improve functionality. Accessible fridges, ovens, and dishwashers often have front controls. Touch interfaces make them easier to use. Some models offer adjustable shelves and pull-out racks.
- Height-adjustable cabinets and worktops are an essential element of accessible kitchen design for wheelchair users or those of a short stature. Pull-down cabinets give easy access to stored items for every kitchen user. Height-adjustable worktops are also a great feature for multi-generational homes.
- Lever-style handles replace hard-to-grip knobs. They work on taps and appliances. This design benefits those with limited hand strength and dexterity.
- Anti-slip flooring reduces falls and creates a safer kitchen environment for everyone.
- Custom lighting improves usability – another key safety consideration in a well-designed accessible kitchen.
The Benefits of Accessible Kitchens
Promoting Independence – Accessible kitchens promote independence. By allowing individuals to cook and socialise, they boost self-esteem and support creativity.
Improving Safety – Accessible and adapted kitchens also improve safety. Their design minimises hazards and reduces risks. Easy-to-use appliances lower the chance of accidents.
Supporting Good Health – Cooking at home supports good mental and physical health. Having access to a fully-equipped kitchen promotes a well-balanced diet. Accessible kitchens also reduce physical strain and maintain daily independence.
Freedom Accessible Kitchen Design
The Freedom design team specialises in designing and installing accessible kitchens to suit a range of needs. Our projects range from accessible kitchen remodelling, to the design and installation of adapted kitchens within bespoke new build homes. We can also help you repurpose an under-used room into a fully accessible and adapted kitchen.
If you have an OT or other healthcare advisor, we work closely with them to ensure your kitchen design meets your needs at every stage. If not, our design team will work directly with you and your family or support network to ensure your personalised kitchen is perfect for you.
Accessible Kitchens that Meet your Budget
Freedom always strives to deliver the best accessible kitchen project for the available budget. However much you are looking to spend, we will ensure your kitchen is a stylish and valued addition to your home.
Most mainstream wholesale kitchen suppliers are now incorporating accessible kitchen features such pull-down cabinets. At the other end of the spectrum are specialist accessible kitchen accessory and appliance suppliers. Selecting the right suppliers enables us to design and fit stylish custom-designed kitchens that are suitable for every pocket.
Integrating Smart Home Technology
As discussed previously, we are seeing that Smart Home integration is on the increase – and kitchens projects are no exception. As early adopters of innovative technologies, we have incorporated voice-activated controls and smart lighting into a number of accessible kitchen projects. Automated appliances also enhance accessibility. When customised to meet specific needs, Smart Home systems can greatly improve independence.
DFG-Funded Accessible Kitchens
Your accessible kitchen project may qualify for full or partial funding through a Disability Facilities Grant (DFG). Grants of up to £30,000 are available in southern England where we operate. Grant amounts vary in other areas of the UK. We explain more about DFG funding for accessible home adaptation projects here. You can also find full details of DFG funding and how to apply on the official GOV.Com website.
As you can see, accessible kitchens are more than just a convenience – they create a level of independence that is so important to those with a disability.
If you are planning an accessible kitchen project, please get in touch. The Freedom team would be happy to discuss your plans and offer advice or free estimate if needed.