Incorporating Universal Design for a Lifetime of Comfort
As you begin the design process for your custom home, it’s tempting to focus only on what you need right now, whether that’s space for the kids, a home office, or a bigger kitchen. But what if your home could adapt with you, supporting your needs not just today, but 10, 20, or even 40 years from now?
That’s the idea behind universal design: building a home that’s accessible, safe, and comfortable at every stage of life. Whether you’re raising young children, hosting aging parents, or planning to age-in-place yourself, a well-designed custom home can grow with you.
At Atlas Building Group, we help homeowners across North Idaho design homes that balance beauty, functionality, and future-forward thinking. Here’s how you can incorporate universal design principles into your custom home without sacrificing style, comfort, or personalization.
1. Zero-Step Entry and Wider Doorways
A home that’s easy to get into is one you’ll never have to retrofit later. A zero-step entry from at least one exterior door makes access easier, whether you’re carrying a sleeping toddler, using a stroller, or recovering from surgery. It also eliminates the need for expensive ramps or remodels down the road.
Inside, wider doorways (at least 36 inches) improve flow, make rooms feel more spacious, and accommodate everything from moving furniture to mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs—if and when they’re ever needed. These features allow your dwelling to comfortably accommodate your family in every stage of life while also significantly increasing your home’s value.
2. Main-Level Living
Even if you plan to build a two-story home, having the essentials on the main level is a game-changer for everyday living, especially if multiple generations share your home or mobility issues arise for you or a loved one. That means your ground floor should include:
A primary suite (bedroom and full bath)
Kitchen and dining area
Laundry room
At least one accessible entrance
This layout works well for parents of young kids, empty nesters, and everyone in between. It offers flexibility as your needs change, without requiring a move or major renovation later on.
3. Open Floor Plans with Flexible Space
An open layout isn’t just a modern design trend; it supports universal design by improving sightlines, minimizing barriers, and making movement easier throughout the home.
Think about adding multi-purpose spaces that can evolve over time. A playroom today can become a guest room, home office, or hobby studio later. A den off the main hallway might one day function as a caregiver’s room or private retreat for a family member.
4. Smart Kitchen and Bath Design
Kitchens and bathrooms are the high-traffic areas that benefit most from thoughtful planning. Consider including these elements in your design:
Lever-style faucets (easier on small hands and aging joints)
Pull-out drawers and shelves instead of deep lower cabinets
Raised dishwashers and wall ovens to reduce the need for bending
Curbless showers with handheld showerheads and built-in benches
Reinforced walls for future grab bar installation
These choices improve usability for everyone, including kids, guests, and the future you.
5. Comfortable Transitions and Good Lighting
Small changes make a big difference. Transition-free flooring (flooring with no lips or thresholds between rooms) lowers trip risk and improves accessibility. Choose durable, non-slip surfaces that work well across seasons, especially in North Idaho, where snow and mud are part of life.
Layered lighting is another underrated universal design move. Integrating a thoughtful combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting makes your home feel inviting and easy to navigate at all hours, especially as eyesight changes with age.
6. Future-Ready, Not Overbuilt
The beauty of universal design is that it doesn’t look clinical or feel institutional. In fact, many elements, like open spaces, wide hallways, and barrier-free showers, are already part of modern home trends because of their universal appeal.
Our approach at Atlas Building Group is to integrate these features subtly and intentionally, so your home feels timeless and tailored, not temporary or transitional. And when your home is designed to support your lifestyle from young family years through retirement, it becomes a place you can truly settle into for the long haul.
Build a Home That Works for Every Season of Life
Designing for long-term comfort doesn’t mean giving up beauty or tailored design. With smart planning and thoughtful details, your custom home can both support your lifestyle today and adapt with you tomorrow.
At Atlas Building Group, we specialize in building homes that are ready for anything life throws your way. Whether you’re planning your forever home in Coeur d’Alene, Hayden, or anywhere else in North Idaho, we’re here to help you get it right from the start. Contact us today or explore our website to learn more about our team of design experts and skilled builders!
