Happy New Year! It’s hard to believe, but 2019 is already in full swing. This year, I am committed to sharing with you more of what motivates me and what my clients are loving.
A big trend for 2019 is Inclusive Design, a philosophy that accommodates everyone from smallest to tallest, and youngest to oldest. The beautiful thing about approaching interior design from an inclusive perspective is that it doesn’t just focus on aging or physical disabilities; but rather on creating design that makes a space safe and accessible to those that might have those disabilities now or in the future.
As a Certified Living in Place Professional (CLIPP), I believe Inclusive Design has the potential to be safe, accessible AND beautiful for all ages and motilities. When it comes to making a space accommodating and adaptable to any user, the kitchen is one of our favorites – with no gut renovation required! Updating your kitchen appliances are a critical first step.
My favorite Inclusive Design Kitchen appliances include:
True Residential Under-Counter Refrigerator Drawers: These compact fridges are positioned seamlessly under kitchen countertops and are a fine solution for people with height and mobility restrictions.
GE Monogram Freezer: This reputable kitchen brand has an ice-maker located in a drawer that’s placed higher up than your typical pull-out freezer and makes for simple scooping.
Thermador Freedom Induction Cooktop: The soft-touch interface on this sleek induction stovetop makes it easier for people with less dexterous hands to cook. This particular brand delivers 63% more usable surface area than the competition, with 48 coils measuring 3” each – the largest cooking surface on the market. Safety features include a childproof lock, pan recognition and a burn-proof surface.
GE Monogram 24” Stainless Steel Dishwasher: When you open the door to this special dishwasher, bright LED lights illuminate the dishes to they’re easier to see. Reversible tines mean that they can be adjusted to accommodate sink location specific to your kitchen.
French Door Ovens: French door ovens open horizontally and have slide out racks making it incredibly easy to take things in and out of the oven. The GE Monogram 30” Professional French Door Electric Convention Oven (#ZET1FHSS) is one of my favorite models to use with clients of all ages.
Under-Counter Microwave: Consider mounting your microwave in an easy-to-reach low cabinet with side-hinged doors to make reaching for food easier.
CONSULTATION PACKAGES
Julie and her team have a passion for creating beautiful, engaging and functional spaces, focusing on both the physical as well as the emotional well being of your environment. Click on the links below for package details:
Whether it is directing the flow of chi through the arrangement of furnishings, design or colors; Julie and her team can help you to create the spaces that support your vision of a balanced life, rich in the areas that matter to you.
A well designed environment boosts employees' performance, promotes efficiency and creates a comforting space for incoming clients.
There is no second chance to make a good first impression. When the time comes to sell or rent your home, ease the transition and maximize return by helping your home look its very best.
Universal Design is the concept of creating a thoughtful space for all people, regardless of their age, size or ability. Universal Design is a perfect design solution to pursue because of the comprehensive features that endure throughout a life span.