Accessible Kitchen Design Tips

Creating a kitchen that is wheelchair-accessible requires a great attention to detail. The more attention you pay to the design of your kitchen the more convenient cooking in your kitchen will be. Here are a few design ideas to consider when designing your accessible kitchen space.

Cabinet Pocket Doors

As you know, your wheelchair can make it difficult to access the countertop in a traditional kitchen space. The wheels on the chair prevent you from getting flush with the counter. When designing your accessible kitchen, design the area below your countertop working spaces with cabinet pocket doors.

On the surface these doors look exactly like a regular cabinet; however, these doors are basically a facade. Behind the doors is an open space that allows you to push your wheelchair up flush with the countertop. It's a good idea to install cabinet pocket doors under your sink and any other areas where you will prep your food for cooking.

Raised Appliances

When designing spaces for your appliances, make certain you bring the appliances up off ground level. Having your appliances slightly higher makes them easier to access. Take a dishwasher for example. If you install the dishwasher on the floor, it will be a challenge to load and unload dishes on the lower rack.

However, installing the dishwasher slightly higher keeps you from straining, allowing you greater access. Keep the same train of thought when it comes to your oven as well. In terms of your oven, it's also a good idea to choose an oven with a side opening door rather than a door that opens from the top. The only large appliance you don't want to raise is your refrigerator.

Lower Storage

In most traditional kitchens, there is a fair amount of storage up high on the walls. With an accessible kitchen you want a design that has the majority of the storage space below. In order to accomplish this you will need to be more creative with the design of your cabinets. Instead of traditional, large box-style cabinets, play around with different size configurations.

Having a variety of different cabinet styles will allow you to fit more into the space and keep it better organized. Additionally, you can also play around with varying cabinet heights in areas where you won't be using the countertop as a working space.

Your wheelchair shouldn't hinder your ability to be fully functional in your kitchen. Take your time designing your accessible kitchen to ensure you have every convenience you need. To learn more about home health care visit, Access Renovations Elevating & Mobility Devices. 

Share