There are several attractive, universal solutions to entrance accessibility that do not involve building a ramp. In new construction, grading the lot and placing the house so that the house floor and entrance level are close to ground level eliminates the need for a ramp. If you are planning a garage, and local building codes allow, build it with a sloping floor so that the door into the house provides a level entrance. Using an earth fill to gently build up the ground level near the entrance, or building an attractive bridge that goes from a point on the lot that is at the same level as the entrance, creates a universal entrance. For existing homes with no more than a two step entrance, the earth fill strategy is ideal.
Several manufacturers make universal kitchen and bathroom cabinet components.
These include cabinets with higher toe kicks and lower counters to accommodate wheelchairs. Both bathroom and kitchen sinks should provide clear knee space. Other cabinets allow upper shelves to be lowered into a convenient reach range for people who are short or who are seated in a wheelchair. Pantry units are available with rotating shelves and full-extension drawer units can be specified so that rear contents can be reached. For the bathroom, several companies make accessible, prefabricated, curbless showers so that people can enter a shower without stepping over a curb, or seated in a shower chair.