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Posted on: June 9, 2010

Room to Grow

Universal design becomes child's play as the powers that be consider even the shortest of options

By Megan Arpin
CTW Features

Counter culture: As kids make their way into the kitchen, lower countertops and appliances become more popular. Image courtesy of Roger Turk of Northlight Photography

Universal design is not just about aging in place - it's about living in spaces that complement everyday routines. Designers, contractors and homeowners have started adopting a childlike perspective when it comes to universal design principles. Determining how a child fits into the kitchen or bathroom masterplan has become a part of the process of accommodating shifting families and lifestyles. In fact, "a concept that's universal - a concept that allows for actual living - is, simply put, truly good design," says Faith Sheridan, a Seattle-based interior designer.

Place appliances in easy-to-reach places. "If you're looking to avoid bending down, install appliances in the wall," Sheridan suggests. Conceal refrigeration and pantry space below the counter and behind cabinets, adding ease for those who can't reach up high. "Microwaves are usually what kids learn to use first," says Shannon Seip, co-author of "Bean Appetit: Hip and Healthy Ways to Have Fun with Food," (Andrews McMeel Publishing, 2010). "Build confidence in the kitchen by placing your microwave at a level everyone in the family can access. Allowing your kitchen space to function for the whole family is key."

Design kitchen islands at lower heights to accommodate chefs and taste-testers of all ages and abilities. Sheridan recommends a lower counter height of anywhere from 30 to 36 inches. Seip suggests having one section of the counter 18 inches lower than the rest to create a cooking area for pint-size chefs - one that will also be suitable for bar seating and for displaying decorative items.

Just 1 Thing

The Green Movement

Get the kids excited about dinner by giving them creative control. Set aside some time with them to whip up a spinach-packed pasta dish they can call their own.

Creamy Green Sauce

(Serves 4)

•2/3 cup low-fat cream cheese

•3 tablespoons pesto (recipe on right)

•2/3 cup low-fat milk

•2 cups cooked pasta

1. Heat a small sauté pan over low heat.

2. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese and pesto together until smooth. Slowly add the milk and mix really well.

3. Add the mixture to the sauté pan. Heat the sauce until it starts to bubble, then stir it up.

4. Mix in pasta and serve.

Pesto

•1/2 cup packed spinach leaves

•1 pinch garlic powder

•1 1/2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese

•2 tablespoon olive oil

•1 pinch salt

•1 pinch pepper

1. Scrunch the spinach leaves, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese in a food processor.

2. Slowly add the olive oil, and process until the pesto is thick and spreadable.

3. Season with the salt and pepper.

Recipe courtesy of "Bean Appetit: Hip and Healthy Ways to Have Fun with Food," (Andrews McMeel Publishing, 2010)