BRIDGES Leads the Way with Universal Design Home Makeover

BRIDGES, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for people with disabilities and promoting accessibility, has acquired a home at 4 Ann Street in New City, NY, to undergo a transformative renovation using Universal Design principles. This pioneering project will create a living space that is functional, comfortable, and inclusive for individuals of all abilities, setting a new standard for accessible housing in the community.

BRIDGES works tirelessly to provide resources, advocacy, and direct services to individuals with disabilities, empowering them to lead independent and fulfilling lives. Through this innovative renovation, BRIDGES aims to demonstrate the power of Universal Design and its ability to make homes more livable for everyone, whether they have young children, are aging in place, living with a disability, or simply seeking a more adaptable and user-friendly home environment.

What is Universal Design?

Universal Design is an approach to creating environments that are inherently accessible to all people, regardless of age, ability, or mobility. By integrating thoughtful modifications such as step-free entrances, wider doorways, adjustable countertops, and smart home technology, BRIDGES' renovation of 4 Ann Street will showcase how homes can be built to accommodate diverse needs without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality.

Key features of the Universal Design renovation will include:

• Step-free entrances and wide doorways to improve accessibility and ease of movement

• Lever-style handles and smart home technology for increased independence

• Adjustable-height kitchen countertops and pull-down shelving to accommodate all users

• Barrier-free bathrooms with curbless showers for safer and more comfortable use

• Non-slip flooring and improved lighting to enhance safety and usability

A Model for Inclusive Housing

This initiative is more than just a home renovation, it is a living demonstration of the future of accessible housing. BRIDGES will use the 4 Ann Street home as an educational resource, hosting tours, workshops, and community events to promote Universal Design and inspire homeowners, builders, and policymakers to incorporate these principles into their projects.

"This project is a major step forward in creating housing solutions that truly work for everyone," said Carlos Martinez, Executive Director at BRIDGES. "By integrating Universal Design, we are not just making a house accessible, we are making it a home where individuals of all abilities can thrive.

Through this project, we hope to empower individuals and builders to reimagine living spaces and embrace the principles of Universal Design so that everyone will eventually have more choices for how and where they live.”

The remodel of the 1,300-square-foot home will be carried out in collaboration with architects, contractors, and accessibility experts including architect Robert Bernstein from BILD Architecture, Joanna Wasilewska from M4 Interiors and with support from the Idea Center in Buffalo, NY, to ensure that it meets the highest standards of Universal Design and “visitability.”

‘Visitability’ is a growing trend nationwide and refers to single-family or owner-occupied housing designed so that it can be lived in or visited by people who have trouble with steps or who use wheelchairs or walkers or have a baby in a stroller. The three components include one zero-step entrance, doors with 32 inches of clear passage space, and one bathroom on the main floor that will accommodate a wheelchair.

Community Support & Next Steps

The renovation is expected to begin August 1st with completion anticipated by December 1st. BRIDGES is actively seeking community partnerships, sponsors, and volunteers to support the project and further its mission of creating a more inclusive world. BRIDGES invites community members, local officials, and organizations to join them in this transformative initiative through monetary donations, product and materials donations such as windows and doors, flooring, paint, cabinetry, etc., and donations of service and time. For more information about BRIDGES, Universal Design, or how to get involved, visit www.bridgesrc.org or call 845-624-1366.

About BRIDGES

BRIDGES is a nonprofit Independent Living Center dedicated to promoting independence, inclusion, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Since 1988, BRIDGES has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights and needs of people with disabilities in the Rockland County area. Through a range of programs and services, BRIDGES empowers individuals to live full, self-directed lives in their communities.