Universal design (UD) is the design of products and
environments that are usable by most people, regardless of their level of
ability or disability, and at little or no extra cost. From entryways to kitchens and bathrooms to bedrooms,
they often increase the value of a home. UD brings together the principles of
accessible design (meeting standards for handicapped access, using “adaptable”
design, meaning “normal”-looking design that can be revised later for disabled
use), ergonomic design (allowing people and things to interact most effectively
and safely), and green design (environmentally friendly spaces). UD is
sometimes also called “lifespan design.”
