Design for Disability - Kitchens

The most important features of design and planning are to ensure:-

adequate space for moving around the kitchen with a minimum maneuvering space of at least 1500mm with an additional 150mm foot recess

suitable height for work surfaces at split heights of 850mm to 900mm (standing) and 700 to 850mm or a compromise of 850mm. Available in a full range of finishes including laminate, wood, granite

adequate storage at a suitable height with smaller doors, roller doors and sliding shelves with easy to use handles, mobile storage units and self closing handles

functional kitchen appliances with appropriate handles, knobs , side opening doors and forward positioned controls

suitable service provision of electrical and plumbing furniture with sink depths of 150mm and P traps giving increased knee space, rotating taps with extended levers, ceramic disk quarter turns, foot operated and infra red sensors. Electrical furniture at 1000mm height with accessible sockets at 300mm depth, uniform overhead lighting with specific task lighting to preparation and washing areas.