Nonprofit Breaks Ground on Universal Design Demonstration Home

BRIDGES, a nonprofit organization that advocates for people with disabilities and promotes accessible independent living, has broken ground on a Universal Design demonstration home in New City, New York.

The remodel of the demonstration home is being carried out in collaboration with architects, contractors and accessibility experts, including architect Robert Bernstein of BILD Architecture, interior designer Joanna Wasilewska of M4 Interiors and The Idea Center in Buffalo, New York, to ensure it meets the highest standards of Universal Design. A variety features will be included, such as wider doorways, adjustable-height kitchen counters, no-step entryways, lever door handles, smart home technology, nonslip flooring, lower electrical panels/breaker boxes and accessible bathroom fixtures.

Upon completion, which is anticipated for this December, BRIDGES plans to host educational events, tours and workshops to raise awareness about Universal Design and its importance in creating barrier-free environments.
“We believe that everyone deserves to live in a home that meets their needs and enables them to thrive,” said Carlos Martinez, executive director of BRIDGES. “Through this project, we hope to empower individuals to reimagine their living spaces and embrace the principles of Universal Design.”

Learn more about the project here.