{"id":23734,"date":"2025-03-19T10:46:00","date_gmt":"2025-03-19T10:46:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/?p=23734"},"modified":"2025-03-19T10:46:00","modified_gmt":"2025-03-19T10:46:00","slug":"accessible-and-stylish-inclusive-design","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/interior-design\/accessible-and-stylish-inclusive-design\/","title":{"rendered":"Accessible and stylish \u2013\u00a0inclusive design that looks great too"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Being able to move freely around your own home is something most non-disabled people take for granted.<\/p>\n<p>But most homes in the UK are not accessible, which can make life very difficult for anyone who has mobility issues and those who use wheelchairs.<\/p>\n<p>However, there are many adaptions and specialist products that can make daily life easier.<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-content\" id=\"gdmag-3466549883\" data-cfpa=\"20295\" data-cfpw=\"20295\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><div class=\"GRVMpuWrapper mobile\"><div class=\"GRVAd inline mobile\" data-ad-type=\"primary-mpu\" data-ad-label=\"mpu\" data-ad-sizemapping=\"primary-mpu\" data-ad-sizes=\"[[300,250],[300,600],[320,480]]\" data-ad-refreshmapping=\"always\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 20295 );<\/script>\n<div id=\"attachment_23745\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23745\" class=\"wp-image-23745 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1214-700x700.jpg\" alt=\"A man in a wheelchair opening a cupboard in a kitchen\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1214-700x700.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1214-250x250.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1214-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1214-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1214-120x120.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1214-1200x1200.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1214-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1214.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23745\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit and main image at top of page: <a href=\"https:\/\/symphony-group.co.uk\/brands\/freedom\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Symphony<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/operabeds.com\/pages\/annabella-fudge-harman\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Annabella Fudge-Harman<\/a> is an interior designer with expertise in accessible design.<\/p>\n<p>Annabelle, who currently works with <a href=\"https:\/\/operabeds.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Opera Beds<\/a>, advises, \u201cConsider height-adjustable furniture, step-free transitions, smart storage solutions, wet rooms, adjustable beds and open-plan layouts.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Every element should enhance daily living while maintaining a cohesive design.\u201d<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_23759\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23759\" class=\"wp-image-23759 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Dalta-Adjustable-Bed-Bedroom-Head-On-Edit-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"A beautiful bedroom containing an adjustable bed\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Dalta-Adjustable-Bed-Bedroom-Head-On-Edit-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Dalta-Adjustable-Bed-Bedroom-Head-On-Edit-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Dalta-Adjustable-Bed-Bedroom-Head-On-Edit-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Dalta-Adjustable-Bed-Bedroom-Head-On-Edit-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Dalta-Adjustable-Bed-Bedroom-Head-On-Edit-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Dalta-Adjustable-Bed-Bedroom-Head-On-Edit-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Dalta-Adjustable-Bed-Bedroom-Head-On-Edit.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23759\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/operabeds.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Opera<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<h2>Kitchens<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_23740\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23740\" class=\"wp-image-23740 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1106-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"An kitchen with accessible features\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1106-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1106-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1106-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1106-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1106-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1106-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1106.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23740\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/symphony-group.co.uk\/brands\/freedom\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Symphony<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>Some kitchen and bathroom manufacturers now make accessible kitchens, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/symphony-group.co.uk\/brands\/freedom\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Symphony\u2019s Freedom kitchen<\/a>.<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-content-2\" id=\"gdmag-738366946\" data-cfpa=\"19928\" data-cfpw=\"19928\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><!-- code from Primis - granddesignsmagazine.com -->\r\n<script type=\"text\/javascript\" language=\"javascript\" src=\"https:\/\/live.primis.tech\/live\/liveView.php?s=116493&schain=1.0,1!grv.media,65,1\"><\/script>\r\n<!-- code from Primis --><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 19928 );<\/script>\n<p>These can include a whole host of features that make them safe and easy for people in wheelchairs to use, such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">adjustable-height worktops that can be raised or lowered according to who is using the kitchen<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">pull-down baskets in upper wall units<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">pull-out shelves and tables<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">slide-and-hide oven doors<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">shallow sinks that a wheelchair-user can get close to<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">worktops with edges that prevent spills<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">easy-grip cupboard handles.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>More kitchen ideas<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_23735\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23735\" class=\"wp-image-23735 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/BIE-L310-L095_Mood_Frame_Rack-2_2022-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"Plates stacked on open shelves\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/BIE-L310-L095_Mood_Frame_Rack-2_2022-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/BIE-L310-L095_Mood_Frame_Rack-2_2022-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/BIE-L310-L095_Mood_Frame_Rack-2_2022-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/BIE-L310-L095_Mood_Frame_Rack-2_2022-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/BIE-L310-L095_Mood_Frame_Rack-2_2022-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/BIE-L310-L095_Mood_Frame_Rack-2_2022-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/BIE-L310-L095_Mood_Frame_Rack-2_2022.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23735\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.inhouseltd.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">InHouse Inspired Room Design<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>Stuart Dance, of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.inhouseltd.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">InHouse Inspired Room Design<\/a>, says, \u201cWith open shelving, you\u2019re less likely to forget what you already have as products aren\u2019t out of sight, out of mind.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;This is helpful for those who are neurodivergent or who have dementia.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, for people with limited dexterity, your essential cooking products and cookware can be kept within easy reach, without needing to pull open a cupboard door. Another solution for people with limited dexterity, is sliding cabinet doors.\u201d<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_23760\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23760\" class=\"wp-image-23760 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NOV-K275_HWR_Speisekammer_Waeschekorbablage-2_2024-700x700.jpg\" alt=\"A built-in washing machine\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NOV-K275_HWR_Speisekammer_Waeschekorbablage-2_2024-700x700.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NOV-K275_HWR_Speisekammer_Waeschekorbablage-2_2024-250x250.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NOV-K275_HWR_Speisekammer_Waeschekorbablage-2_2024-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NOV-K275_HWR_Speisekammer_Waeschekorbablage-2_2024-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NOV-K275_HWR_Speisekammer_Waeschekorbablage-2_2024-120x120.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NOV-K275_HWR_Speisekammer_Waeschekorbablage-2_2024-1200x1200.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NOV-K275_HWR_Speisekammer_Waeschekorbablage-2_2024-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NOV-K275_HWR_Speisekammer_Waeschekorbablage-2_2024.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23760\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.inhouseltd.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">InHouse Inspired Room Design<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stuart also recommends pull-out shelves for those with limited reach. And he continues, \u201cIntegrated appliances are excellent for accessibility as they allow users to install them at their preferred height. For example, if you have trouble bending down, you can install your dishwasher, washing machine and oven at a height that means you will be completely upright while using them.\u201d<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-prop-primary-mpu\" id=\"gdmag-4284804230\" data-cfpa=\"20294\" data-cfpw=\"20294\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><div class=\"GRVMpuWrapper\"><div class=\"GRVAd inline\" data-ad-type=\"mpu\" data-ad-sizes=\"[[300,250]]\" data-ad-refreshmapping=\"always\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 20294 );<\/script>\n<h2>Boiling-water taps<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_23758\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23758\" class=\"wp-image-23758 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AGILIS_SINGLELEVER_BRUSHEDBRASS_AT2188-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"An instant hot water tap in a kitchen\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AGILIS_SINGLELEVER_BRUSHEDBRASS_AT2188-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AGILIS_SINGLELEVER_BRUSHEDBRASS_AT2188-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AGILIS_SINGLELEVER_BRUSHEDBRASS_AT2188-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AGILIS_SINGLELEVER_BRUSHEDBRASS_AT2188-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AGILIS_SINGLELEVER_BRUSHEDBRASS_AT2188-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AGILIS_SINGLELEVER_BRUSHEDBRASS_AT2188-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AGILIS_SINGLELEVER_BRUSHEDBRASS_AT2188.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23758\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abodedesigns.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Abode<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>Dan Biddle, from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abodedesigns.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Abode<\/a>, points out that another kitchen gadget some people with mobility issues are finding helpful is the boiling-water tap.<\/p>\n<p>He says, \u201cAs well as providing huge safety benefits, a sensor-controlled instant-hot-water tap is also great for anyone with dexterity difficulties or conditions like arthritis, as they can avoid pushing down, turning and sliding the handle to trigger the water flow.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cAlternatively, low-tech tap models are also providing an element of touch-free operation with the handle located on the front of the tap body, which helps to reduce reach for users and provide agile movement via a single lever.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;With just a flick of a wrist, customers can easily access the water flow and benefit from convenience without compromise.\u201d<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-prop-in-content-mpu\" id=\"gdmag-882919391\" data-cfpa=\"20294\" data-cfpw=\"20294\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><div class=\"GRVMpuWrapper\"><div class=\"GRVAd inline\" data-ad-type=\"mpu\" data-ad-sizes=\"[[300,250]]\" data-ad-refreshmapping=\"always\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 20294 );<\/script>\n<h2>Bathrooms<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_23753\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23753\" class=\"wp-image-23753 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/LX-Hausys_HIMACS_CB-4628-Terrazzo-Classico_scene-2-700x700.jpg\" alt=\"Accessible bathroom with shallow sink and grab rail\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/LX-Hausys_HIMACS_CB-4628-Terrazzo-Classico_scene-2-700x700.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/LX-Hausys_HIMACS_CB-4628-Terrazzo-Classico_scene-2-250x250.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/LX-Hausys_HIMACS_CB-4628-Terrazzo-Classico_scene-2-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/LX-Hausys_HIMACS_CB-4628-Terrazzo-Classico_scene-2-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/LX-Hausys_HIMACS_CB-4628-Terrazzo-Classico_scene-2-120x120.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/LX-Hausys_HIMACS_CB-4628-Terrazzo-Classico_scene-2-1200x1200.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/LX-Hausys_HIMACS_CB-4628-Terrazzo-Classico_scene-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/LX-Hausys_HIMACS_CB-4628-Terrazzo-Classico_scene-2.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23753\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lxhausys.com\/uk-en\/himacs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">HIMACS<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>When it comes to the bathroom, the favourite accessible option is a wet room with shower seat, as this avoids the need to climb into a bath or stand up for a long time.<\/p>\n<p>Choose non-slip tiles for the floor, and, for a high-end look, look at designer grab rails and rather than standard white ones (see ideas below).<\/p>\n<p>If a full wet room is too expensive, a walk-in shower enclosure with a very shallow step could work. Some people find a raised-height toilet easier to use, while sensor-activated flush and wash-dry toilets can help others.<\/p>\n<h2>Grab rails<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_23761\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23761\" class=\"wp-image-23761 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1161802463-700x525.jpeg\" alt=\"Someone holding a grab rail in a bathroom\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1161802463-700x525.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1161802463-250x188.jpeg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1161802463-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1161802463-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1161802463-120x90.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1161802463-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1161802463.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23761\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: Adobe Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The grab rail is one useful product that lots of companies have redesigned to make more appealing, so, for example, you can now get:<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-prop-in-content-mpu-2\" id=\"gdmag-609254978\" data-cfpa=\"20294\" data-cfpw=\"20294\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><div class=\"GRVMpuWrapper\"><div class=\"GRVAd inline\" data-ad-type=\"mpu\" data-ad-sizes=\"[[300,250]]\" data-ad-refreshmapping=\"always\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 20294 );<\/script>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nightingalemobility.co.uk\/product\/designer-grab-bars\/\">patterned grab rails,<\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">chrome, brushed gold and matt black grab rails from many suppliers,<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/grannygetsagrip.com\/product\/solid-wood-grab-rail\/\">solid wood grab rails,<\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.invisiblecreations.co.uk\/shop?page=2\">\u2018hidden\u2019 grab rails disguised as shower corner units, tower tails, mirror shelves, toilet-roll holders, and even planters for outdoors<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>High-contrast accessories \u2013 usually red (against white) \u2013 are recommended for people who have dementia.<\/p>\n<h2>Beds<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_23756\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23756\" class=\"wp-image-23756 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Solo-Comfort-Dressed-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"A lowered bed in a pretty bedroom\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Solo-Comfort-Dressed-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Solo-Comfort-Dressed-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Solo-Comfort-Dressed-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Solo-Comfort-Dressed-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Solo-Comfort-Dressed-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Solo-Comfort-Dressed-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Solo-Comfort-Dressed.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23756\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/operabeds.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Opera<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>When it comes to beds, some firms, like <a href=\"https:\/\/operabeds.com\/\">Opera<\/a>, offer attractive beds that don\u2019t resemble hospital beds but have many of their functions.<\/p>\n<p>For example, the bed can be moved up and down, which means that someone at risk of falling out of bed can sleep down close to the ground, meanwhile it can be lifted up to stop carers having to bend over when they are providing personal care to someone in the bed.<\/p>\n<p>Profiling beds, meanwhile, enable the person using them to sit up or raise their feet.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_23755\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23755\" class=\"wp-image-23755 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Signature-Comfort-Dual-Profiling-Bed-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"A double special care bed in a nice bedroom \" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Signature-Comfort-Dual-Profiling-Bed-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Signature-Comfort-Dual-Profiling-Bed-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Signature-Comfort-Dual-Profiling-Bed-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Signature-Comfort-Dual-Profiling-Bed-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Signature-Comfort-Dual-Profiling-Bed-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Signature-Comfort-Dual-Profiling-Bed-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Signature-Comfort-Dual-Profiling-Bed.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23755\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/operabeds.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Opera<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can even get special double beds for couples who both have additional needs.<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-prop-in-content-mpu-3\" id=\"gdmag-2934658011\" data-cfpa=\"20294\" data-cfpw=\"20294\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><div class=\"GRVMpuWrapper\"><div class=\"GRVAd inline\" data-ad-type=\"mpu\" data-ad-sizes=\"[[300,250]]\" data-ad-refreshmapping=\"always\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 20294 );<\/script>\n<h2>Smart home tech<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_23749\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23749\" class=\"wp-image-23749 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL-25-ROLLER-BLIND-PETULA-OLIVE-PORTRAIT-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"Someone operating blinds using a remote control \" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL-25-ROLLER-BLIND-PETULA-OLIVE-PORTRAIT-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL-25-ROLLER-BLIND-PETULA-OLIVE-PORTRAIT-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL-25-ROLLER-BLIND-PETULA-OLIVE-PORTRAIT-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL-25-ROLLER-BLIND-PETULA-OLIVE-PORTRAIT-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL-25-ROLLER-BLIND-PETULA-OLIVE-PORTRAIT-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL-25-ROLLER-BLIND-PETULA-OLIVE-PORTRAIT-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL-25-ROLLER-BLIND-PETULA-OLIVE-PORTRAIT.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23749\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hillarys.co.uk\/blinds-range\/electric-blinds\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hillary&#8217;s<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smart tech can be a real boon for accessibility.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Voice (or app) activated lighting, heating, home security etc can great if you don\u2019t find it easy to move around or reach.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_23747\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23747\" class=\"wp-image-23747 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_2022_CALM-LIVING_ROLLER-BLINDS_COMPOSE-SHADOW_LANDSCAPE-2-700x517.jpg\" alt=\"A stylish modern lounge with electric blinds\" width=\"700\" height=\"517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_2022_CALM-LIVING_ROLLER-BLINDS_COMPOSE-SHADOW_LANDSCAPE-2-700x517.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_2022_CALM-LIVING_ROLLER-BLINDS_COMPOSE-SHADOW_LANDSCAPE-2-250x185.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_2022_CALM-LIVING_ROLLER-BLINDS_COMPOSE-SHADOW_LANDSCAPE-2-768x568.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_2022_CALM-LIVING_ROLLER-BLINDS_COMPOSE-SHADOW_LANDSCAPE-2-1536x1135.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_2022_CALM-LIVING_ROLLER-BLINDS_COMPOSE-SHADOW_LANDSCAPE-2-120x89.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_2022_CALM-LIVING_ROLLER-BLINDS_COMPOSE-SHADOW_LANDSCAPE-2-1200x887.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_2022_CALM-LIVING_ROLLER-BLINDS_COMPOSE-SHADOW_LANDSCAPE-2.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23747\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hillarys.co.uk\/blinds-range\/electric-blinds\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hillary&#8217;s<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>Victoria Robinson, from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hillarys.co.uk\/blinds-range\/electric-blinds\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hillarys<\/a>, suggests, for example, \u201cElectric blinds are a perfect way to make your home more accessible and stylish.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;They\u2019re all about convenience, whether you want to open or close them with a simple voice command through Alexa or Google; set a schedule for them to automatically adjust; or control them via an app on your phone.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;This makes them ideal for anyone looking to simplify their daily routine \u2013 especially those with mobility challenges.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Plus, they add a sleek, modern touch to any room, proving that accessibility doesn\u2019t mean compromising on style. It\u2019s all about making life easier without sacrificing design.\u201d<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-prop-in-content-mpu-4\" id=\"gdmag-3328971544\" data-cfpa=\"20294\" data-cfpw=\"20294\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><div class=\"GRVMpuWrapper\"><div class=\"GRVAd inline\" data-ad-type=\"mpu\" data-ad-sizes=\"[[300,250]]\" data-ad-refreshmapping=\"always\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 20294 );<\/script>\n<h2>Get the right light<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_23736\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23736\" class=\"wp-image-23736 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NPN-L440_Nische_Mantle_2024-700x432.jpg\" alt=\"A stylish kitchen\" width=\"700\" height=\"432\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NPN-L440_Nische_Mantle_2024-700x432.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NPN-L440_Nische_Mantle_2024-250x154.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NPN-L440_Nische_Mantle_2024-768x474.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NPN-L440_Nische_Mantle_2024-1536x947.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NPN-L440_Nische_Mantle_2024-120x74.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NPN-L440_Nische_Mantle_2024-1200x740.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/NPN-L440_Nische_Mantle_2024.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23736\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.inhouseltd.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">InHouse Inspired Room Design<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>Annabella advises \u201cLighting is crucial; well placed, layered lighting not only enhances ambience but also improves visibility and safety.\u201d This is another area where smart tech comes into its own. Programmable lighting can be a real help.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2>Lift<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_23762\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23762\" class=\"wp-image-23762 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/9875_TrioSet02_EG_74-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"A dining room with a small lift in the corner\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/9875_TrioSet02_EG_74-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/9875_TrioSet02_EG_74-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/9875_TrioSet02_EG_74-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/9875_TrioSet02_EG_74-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/9875_TrioSet02_EG_74-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/9875_TrioSet02_EG_74-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/9875_TrioSet02_EG_74.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23762\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stiltz.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Stiltz<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>A lift could be the thing that makes it possible for someone to \u2018age in place\u2019 in their own home.<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019ve <a href=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/home-improvements\/how-to-install-a-lift-in-your-home\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">covered how to install a lift in your home before<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Companies like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stiltz.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Stiltz<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stannah.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Stannah<\/a> offer a range of different types, from small lifts to carry one person between floors that can be fitted discreetly into a corner of the room, to larger, wheelchair-accessible lifts.<\/p>\n<h2>Layout<\/h2>\n<p>When it comes to home layout, Annabelle says, \u201cDouble doors are best wherever possible as these maximise the amount of space you have, and the turning circle.<\/p>\n<h2>Grants<\/h2>\n<p>None of this comes cheap, but government grants such as the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/disabled-facilities-grants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Disabled Facilities Grant <\/a>are available to help pay for adaptations.<\/p>\n<h2>Stylish accessibility<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_23748\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23748\" class=\"wp-image-23748 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_ROLLER_PetulaOchre_Landscape-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"A stylish colourful lounge\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_ROLLER_PetulaOchre_Landscape-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_ROLLER_PetulaOchre_Landscape-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_ROLLER_PetulaOchre_Landscape-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_ROLLER_PetulaOchre_Landscape-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_ROLLER_PetulaOchre_Landscape-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_ROLLER_PetulaOchre_Landscape-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/HIL_ROLLER_PetulaOchre_Landscape.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23748\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hillarys.co.uk\/blinds-range\/electric-blinds\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hilary&#8217;s<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>Traditionally, accessible furniture and accessibility aids have been functional looking rather than stylish, but this is changing.<\/p>\n<p>Manufacturers are beginning to consider style as well as function.<\/p>\n<p>Recently many people were inspired by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/grand-designs-houses\/grand-designs-keighley\/\">Kara and Jonny\u2019s beautiful home featured on Grand Designs<\/a>, which proved that accessible doesn\u2019t have to mean ugly.<\/p>\n<p>This Yorkshire home built to meet the needs of wheelchair-user Kara and her family is simply stunning.<\/p>\n<p>More and more designers are getting the message that people want accessible home and interiors products to look good as well as be easy to use &#8211; the situation isn\u2019t perfect yet, but things are definitely improving\u2026<\/p>\n<h2>Aesthetics matter<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_23754\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23754\" class=\"wp-image-23754 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Ruby-Motion-Divan-3b-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"A profile bed in a pretty bedroom\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Ruby-Motion-Divan-3b-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Ruby-Motion-Divan-3b-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Ruby-Motion-Divan-3b-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Ruby-Motion-Divan-3b-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Ruby-Motion-Divan-3b-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Ruby-Motion-Divan-3b-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Ruby-Motion-Divan-3b.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23754\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/operabeds.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Opera<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>Annabella says, \u201cCreating a beautiful, accessible home is all about blending style with functionality.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Often, accessibility is viewed as a compromise on aesthetics, but this doesn\u2019t have to be the case.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;With thoughtful design, the two can work in harmony. People want their space to feel like home, not a hospital room.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;A well designed space not only supports mobility and independence, but also fosters a sense of comfort for individuals and allows them to live at home for as long as possible, often close to loved ones, which is vital for wellbeing.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>She continues, \u201cThere will always be things that crop up that you didn\u2019t account for \u2013 such as changing wheelchair sizes or care needs \u2013 so remaining adaptable is really important.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2>New homes<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_23744\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23744\" class=\"wp-image-23744 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1201-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"An accessible kitchen with built-in appliances\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1201-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1201-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1201-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1201-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1201-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1201-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1201.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23744\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/symphony-group.co.uk\/brands\/freedom\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Symphony<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>When it comes to the design of new homes, the government construction rules known as Building Regs are meant to make new buildings more inclusive and accessible, specifically <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/access-to-and-use-of-buildings-approved-document-m\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Part M of the Building Regulations<\/a> sets out accessibility standards for new homes.<\/p>\n<p>Although the rules laid out are a step in the right direction, they don\u2019t, for example, require all new homes to be fully wheelchair accessible.<\/p>\n<p>To meet these regulations most new buildings only need to be accessible enough to be \u2018visitable\u2019 by someone who uses a wheelchair.<\/p>\n<p>That means, it has to be easy for a wheelchair user to get into the building and the rooms and toilet facilities on the entrance level.<\/p>\n<p>The rules set out things like the minimum width of doorways and maximum gradients of slopes.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_23763\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23763\" class=\"wp-image-23763 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1058852769-700x392.jpeg\" alt=\"A wheelchair-accessible bedroom\" width=\"700\" height=\"392\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1058852769-700x392.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1058852769-250x140.jpeg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1058852769-768x430.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1058852769-1536x861.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1058852769-120x67.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1058852769-1200x673.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1058852769.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23763\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: Adobe Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p>There are more rigorous sets of rules for what are known as \u2018accessible and adaptable\u2019 dwellings that should be adaptable for people with a range of needs including older people, those with reduced mobility and some wheelchair users.<\/p>\n<p>Finally, there are rules setting out what constitutes a \u2018wheelchair-user dwelling, but these only apply to specific, purpose-built homes.<\/p>\n<h2>Inclusive design<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_23764\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23764\" class=\"wp-image-23764 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1262596062-700x525.jpeg\" alt=\"A girl in a wheelchair doing homework at a desk\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1262596062-700x525.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1262596062-250x188.jpeg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1262596062-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1262596062-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1262596062-120x90.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1262596062-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_1262596062.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-23764\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: Adobe Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Many designers and architects today are interested in the idea of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.architecture.com\/knowledge-and-resources\/knowledge-landing-page\/what-is-inclusive-design?srsltid=AfmBOopY93JqbJoHqQ008kJbmlvxw3aewfFw6uAzv1sn238NyXaPKIth\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">inclusive design<\/a>, which means they start from the premise of trying to design products, spaces and services that are accessible to, and useable by, as many people as reasonably possible without the need for special adaptation.<\/p>\n<p>If this is something that interests you, a great place to find out more is the brilliant booklet <a href=\"https:\/\/disordinaryarchitecture.co.uk\/start-learning\/many-more-parts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Many More Parts Than M!<\/a> from the <a href=\"https:\/\/disordinaryarchitecture.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DisOrdinary Architecture Project<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Trends in design are towards more accessible and inclusive spaces. But change takes time and many old buildings in the UK can\u2019t be easily or cheaply adapted.<\/p>\n<p>Groups like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.disabilityrightsuk.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Disability Rights UK<\/a> continue to fight for more places to be made accessible to more people.<\/p>\n<p>And, in the meantime, Annabella reminds us, \u201cAccessible interior design doesn&#8217;t have to be black and white, there are ways around things without turning your home into something resembling a hospital.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;By keeping homes looking beautiful, as well as practical, people can feel a great sense of comfort while not feeling their space is a constant reminder of their needs.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>READ MORE:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/home-improvements\/how-to-install-a-lift-in-your-home\/\">How to install a lift in your home<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/grand-designs-houses\/grand-designs-keighley\/\">Grand Designs Keighley: An accessible home in West Yorkshire<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/renovate\/healthy-home-working-flexispot\/\">Healthy home working with Flexispot<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Being able to move freely around your own home is something most non-disabled people take for granted. But most homes in the UK are not accessible, which can make life very difficult for anyone who has mobility issues and those who use wheelchairs. However, there are many adaptions and specialist products that can make daily&#8230; <a class=\"view-article\" href=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/interior-design\/accessible-and-stylish-inclusive-design\/\">View Article<\/a>","protected":false},"author":10663,"featured_media":23746,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[457],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-23734","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-interior-design"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.3 (Yoast SEO v26.6) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Accessible and stylish \u2013\u00a0inclusive design that looks great too - Grand Designs Magazine<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Designers are making accessible options for our homes that are better than they ever have been -\u00a0and it\u2019s now possible to have a home that&#039;s both accessible and stylish.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/interior-design\/accessible-and-stylish-inclusive-design\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Accessible and stylish \u2013\u00a0inclusive design that looks great too\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Designers are making accessible options for our homes that are better than they ever have been -\u00a0and it\u2019s now possible to have a home that&#039;s both accessible and stylish.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/interior-design\/accessible-and-stylish-inclusive-design\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Grand Designs Magazine\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/GrandDesigns\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-03-19T10:46:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/FreedomAylesbury1229.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1920\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1440\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Mary Richards\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@granddesigns\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@granddesigns\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Mary Richards\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Estimated reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"9 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/interior-design\/accessible-and-stylish-inclusive-design\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/interior-design\/accessible-and-stylish-inclusive-design\/\",\"name\":\"Accessible and stylish \u2013\u00a0inclusive design that looks great too - 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