Free Flow

Universal design not only works in individual rooms but also between them. Here the living room has a clear, accessible route with no obstructions for easy flow and mobility. And with no doors, there's no risk kids will slam their hands. Contrasting colors help define positioning and provide bearings for declining eyesight. A wide 36-inch passage between the dining room and kitchen allows for the passage of a wheelchair.

Ready to apply universal design to your home? While there's no certification for universal design, find a designer who specializes in it through the referral service of the American Society of Interior Designers (www.asid.org).