Universal Design Learning Lab - 30 Features 78 LeBaron Hall, Iowa State University
Living room/Bedroom What are the advantages of this/these features?

Living Room/ Bedroom
	Feature	Photo
1.	The closet has adjustable rods making it easier for the user to hang or store belongings. Clothes can also be easily seen. This is very helpful for young children or person in wheelchair.
2.	A daybed can be used as a sofa or a bed. It can be easily interchanged between the two and it can be located either a living room or family room.
3.	The low-piling carpeting allows for items to roll across it easily. The low-pile carpeting also helps to prevent trips and falls.
4.	The large numbers on the thermostat allows the temperature to be read at a distance. The large numbers are easier to see and operate.
5.	The waist high electric switches and outlets prevent having to bend over. They are accessible from either a standing or seated position.
6.	Casement windows can be opened with one hand. They can also be opened from a seated or standing position. This allows users from all ages to access the windows.
7.	Accordion shades can be adjusted to shut out or bring in the sunlight with just one hand. Opening and closing is done by simply pushing up or pulling down on the shades.
8.	The rocker light switches are a convenient way to turn off and on the lights with ease. Little strength is needed to operate the switch.
9.	The modular cabinets can be used as changeable units for storage. They are very useful to display pictures or plants. The shelves can be adjusted for easy reach.
10.	The table is great for eating, working or playing a game. It is user friendly for all ages. The legs of the table are on the outer corners making it easier for an individual to pull up a chair.

 

Kitchen What are the advantages of this/these features?

Kitchen
	Feature	Photo
1.	A lever style faucet is easier to control and can be used with one hand. It allows better control of the water temperature.
2.	A lowered work area allows individuals to have a place to sit and work or relax while cooking or preparing a meal.
3.	The lazy Susan adds storage space without taking up much room. It also allows objects to be brought to the front with minimal effort.
4.	The pull out counters offers extra space to work at different heights. It is added counter space that can be easily hidden.
5.	The side-by-side refrigerator offers easier access to the items with its loop handles and is accommodating to users of all heights.
6.	The light under the cabinets offers users better lighting for the work space. The light also helps to reduce accidents and strain on the eyes.
7.	Pots and pans are easier to access without bending over or looking in deep cabinets.
8.	Balanced doors with U-shaped handles allow for easy pulling. Drawers can be accessed with only one hand.
9.	The open space under the sink allows the user to sit at the sink to wash dishes. As the picture illustrates this could be a family event.
10.	This 60 inch turning circle offers room to maneuver around. It makes moving around in the kitchen a lot more accessible.

 

Bathroom What are the advantages of this/these features?

Bathroom
	Feature	Photo
1.	A grab bar helps individuals in and out the tub. Grab bars are designed to help raise/steady oneself. Grab bar should be able to support up to 300 pounds and can be decorative.
2.	Soft tubs help to prevent injury. They are made from a foam base with a heavy vinyl-like covering. The faucet is off center to prevent stretching over the tub.
3.	Toilet paper is easy to change with an open end holder with just one hand.
4.	The faucet has a motion sensor. This makes it easy to wash your hands without reaching to turn on the faucet.
5.	Open space beneath the sink for your legs to fit while you sit. Pipes have been placed elsewhere so that you will not burn your legs.
6.	Space at the end of the tub allows a person to sit and then swing their legs into the tub. It helps to prevent falls and injuries.
7.	A large and lower mirror and lights all around allows viewers tall or short to see themselves clearly. You can stand or sit to see yourself.
8.	Space around the toilet allow for help in getting on and off. Grab bars make it easier to steady oneself on the toilet. Great for young children as well with persons with disabilities.
9.	The adjustable shower head makes it convenient for any person tall or short to take a shower. This also helps assist those not capable of standing.
10.	The temperature control on the shower facet makes it easier to select the temperature. The lever handle is very convenient to adjust