Interior and Living Areas

Hallway Design

Open plan designs often include shorter hallways, which is preferable for ease of movement. In new or existing hallways, a minimum width of at least 42 inches provides ample room for all family members. Anyone using medical equipment will appreciate the extra space. Wider hallways also make moving large furniture and appliances easier.

Cost
$$$ $
Difficulty
Medium

Altering hallway width may involve moving or eliminating structural walls. This usually will require the expertise of a remodeler.

How-to tip

Make sure that doorways are also at least 32 inches wide (34 inches preferred)

Principles Equitable Use The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities. Flexibility in Use The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities. Low Physical Effort The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue. Size and Space for Approach and Use Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user’s body size, posture, or mobility.

Analytics Innovation Designs that go beyond the ordinary and customary can have wonderful outcomes: adding natural light, bringing the outside in, enhancing the spaciousness of smaller spaces, improving interior connections all. Replicability Totally unique solutions, that can’t be applied on other lots or home styles aren’t terribly useful. Features with and “R” designation are particularly applicable to other home renovation situations in a variety of settings. Affordability Home features that can’t be afforded might as well not exist. And home features that require infrequent replacement and low maintenance over time save a family’s energy and money. Renovation costs of these homes can be far lower than standard homes due to minimized construction over time. Sustainability This is often considered environmental ecology or the preservations and enhancement of the natural world as much as possible. Universal design provides a matching set of values: social ecology, which allows the full integration of al individuals with family and community life. A sustainable approach uses less building materials and less waste because of a diminished amount of removed and demolished sections of the home. Projects also enhance sustainability because potential renovations are eliminated or reduced such as by adding or subtracting interior wall panels and modules instead of needing major rebuilding and renovations.