Interest in universal design will grow in the future. Look first at the statistics: In 2004, 63 million Americans were 55 years or older. Between now and 2012, another 3.4 million will reach that age bracket each year. These consumers are already expressing an interest in "aging in place." The National Kitchen and Bath Association reports that 30 percent of consumers are considering universal design elements for their home. And log onto the Internet and you'll find an array of organizations promoting the housing, and health, benefits of aging in place. There are universal design demonstration homes. The National Association of Home Buildings teaches the technical, management, and customer service skills required in universal design applications.

A new slide-out shelf allows ease-of-use for unloading the top-mounted dryer.

As mentioned in this article universal design is not a science. It requires only an awareness of need and market and a common sense approach to making everything that is designed and produced usable by everyone to the greatest extent possible. As such, there are no "rules" per se, for universal design, just principles and tips that can guide you in your pursuit. Therefore, the following are meant as just that: guidelines for exploration, discussions, and revision.

First, though, consider universal design in relationship to current kitchen design trends and you will discover that some of the new "advances" are, maybe unwittingly, incorporating universal design principles. Once a strictly utilitarian space meant for preparing meals, the kitchen is now the hub of the home, where the family gathers in the evenings to share meals, do homework, and entertain friends. There has been a shift in emphasis from the classic triangle to work zones, and the room's overall size has expanded significantly. Kitchens are seen as more unique, personal spaces, and not necessarily cookie-cutter versions. There is often the need to make the kitchen accessible and multigenerational.

And this is being accomplished in accordance with the golden rule of universal design- to find solutions that are "invisible." The solutions use color, scale, texture, line and light to create spaces that have harmony, balance and proportion.

Consider the following, the flexibility of kitchen zones designed for a variety of activities allows the incorporation of different design elements-counter tops of varying heights, the use of different sized appliances, concentrated lighting. Think of a prep area with a small sink, cutting board, and microwave oven. This zone can and may be easily accessible to someone in a wheelchair, or someone with another disability. Wall cabinets are being sacrificed for open space, which leads to more horizontal cabinets that may come with doors that lift up awning-style. And those counter tops of varying heights can double as desktops or a lower counter surface on which to knead bread.

Appliance manufacturers, too, are keen to the aging population. The manufacturers aim to meet consumers needs, making their products easier to use and more efficient. Industrial designers, in particular, see ergonomics as a more part of universal design. What is a less stressful way to pull out an oven rack? Does a warming drawer actually provide more functionality to a kitchen? How tall should a washing machine's pedestals be?

An in-depth examination of the following principles of universal design, design tips, appliance usability features, and design features in housing can lead to a greater understanding and application of these ideas.