In an adaptable dwelling, wide doors, no steps, knee spaces, controls and switch locations, grab bar reinforcing and other access features must be built in. Grab bars, however do not have to be installed until needed. Because the bathroom walls are already reinforced, the bars can simply be screwed into the wall and unscrewed when the tenant no longer requires them. The knee space under the sink may be concealed with a removable base cabinet. Counter tops and closet rods can be placed on adjustable supports rather than fixed at lower heights as required by some people who use wheelchairs.
Adaptable design means readily achievable.
It does not allow building inaccessible units on the promise that they will be renovated or remodeled for accessibility upon request. It is best to remember that adaptable features can be adjusted in a short time by unskilled labor without structural or finish material changes. Items that are usable by most people regardless of their level of ability or disability can be considered universally usable. Many accessible and adaptable features are universally usable. For example, round knobs are not usable by people with limited dexterity, but lever handles can used by almost everyone.