How to Create a Wheelchair Accessible Kitchen Design

Suppose you need to design a kitchen for someone who is in a wheelchair. In that case, it’s imperative to be familiar with ADA kitchen requirements and find a contractor who is familiar with them and who has performed this type of work in the past.

However, while it is important to be sure you and the contractor are well aware of all ADA counter height requirements and other accessibility recommendations for installation, always make sure first that they are aligned with the person who has the disability.

Before you begin to build, make sure you test all wheelchair accessible kitchen design measurements out with the person who is in the wheelchair, just to ensure everything is perfectly accessible to them. 

Wheelchair Accessible Kitchen Design: What Does an ADA Kitchen Look Like?

The Americans with Disabilities Act has precise requirements when it comes to kitchens, as well as other areas of the home. There are ADA kitchen cabinets requirements as well as other measurements you’ll need to take into consideration as you begin to build. All cabinets should be within reach of the wheelchair user to not have to strain or reach. There are other handicap kitchen design requirements to take into consideration:

• Kitchen floors must be clear of all obstructions
• Front-oriented appliances, such as a stove, must have enough room so that the person can operate them from the side
• Countertops can be positioned no higher than 34 inches

There must also be an ADA-compliant kitchen sink when it comes to wheelchair accessible kitchen design. The sink must be at least 29 inches high, 11 inches deep, and 30 inches wide, and like all other appliances, clear of all obstructions. The consensus throughout a handicap accessible kitchen is that there must be plenty of space for the wheelchair to move, so there is an ADA wheelchair width. The ADA turning radius is taken into consideration. There must be at least 60 inches of space surrounding the wheelchair at all times so that the person can turn.

Wheelchair Accessible Kitchen Design: Other Things to Note

As mentioned, ADA requirements should be adhered to, but when it comes to a physical disability and many different types of wheelchairs, it’s not a “one size fits all” situation. It’s imperative to find a caring contractor who is willing to work with you and be patient when it comes to measurements.

Generally, you want to focus on several main areas of wheelchair accessible kitchens: the countertops and sink, the storage space, accessing appliances, clearance, and floor space, and handles, knobs, outlets, and controls. If you have the perfect wheelchair accessible kitchen design, but the plugs are out of reach for the person in the wheelchair, this is a significant problem. This is why you must take all things into account and get down to the ground level if you have to, seeing what’s in your reach. You may have to call in an electrician and do some rewiring for the perfect wheelchair accessible kitchen design. This is why you need an experienced contractor who has worked this type of job before. 

For more ideas about wheelchair accessible kitchen design or to hear about products that can be life-changing, such as wheelchair ramps or stairlifts, contact Williams Lift Co. today. We want both caregivers and their loved ones to live their best lives.