DO MORE - Universal Design Principles
At Bluebird we always strive to do more. One of the ways we do this is by adopting universal design principles in our projects.
Universal Housing Design is about designing Australian homes to meet the changing needs of home occupants across their lifetime. Also known as Inclusive Design, it ensures homes can be accessed and used to the greatest extent possible by all people regardless of their age, size, ability or disability.
Livable Housing Australia (LHA) was established in 2011 and is leading the development of these homes. The LHA Liveable Housing Guidelines define best practice standards and provide criteria for accreditation levels of Silver, Gold or Platinum.
Considering LHA design elements upfront or modifying your floor plans to suit prospective residents to achieve LHA accreditation, can be as simple as incorporating items such as:
A bathroom that contains a hobless shower recess;
An easily accessible toilet on the ground level;
Reinforced walls around the toilet, shower and bath to support the safe installation of grab rails at a later date;
Lights switches and power points installed at appropriate heights for all home occupants to easily reach;
Slip-resistant floor coverings.
LHA also works in partnership with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) who support Special Disability Accommodation (SDA). This year the Bluebird Team was proudly involved in helping deliver several SDA units at KubUnity in Capalaba (featured image). The Developer achieved SDA certification for their compliant design, a fabulous outcome for the residents who require special housing solutions, whilst being integrated with the rest of the development.
Inclusive design needn’t be difficult or expensive. It adds countless benefits to your project, such as enhancing the sense of community and creating a safe environment for all residents. Bluebird is proud to be involved in projects that think ahead and deliver for those residents who need extra support.
