Why Visitability is Important in New Homes and Communities
A key concept gaining attention in new home design is "visitability." But what does it mean, and why is it so important?
When considering a new home, it's essential to think about how your new home will accommodate your lifestyle now and in the future. Visitability is a design approach that makes homes more accessible to everyone, whether they live there or are just visiting.
The visitability movement in the U.S. was begun by Eleanor Smith and other grassroots advocates in an organization called Concrete Change in the late 1980’s. They originally used the term “Basic Home Access”, but later adopted “visitability”, which was being used in the United Kingdom for a similar concept.
Visitability focuses on three main features:
- At least one zero-step entry
- Wider doorways and hallways
- An accessible bathroom on the main floor
While this concept might seem like it's solely geared toward individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges, the reality is that visitability benefits everyone.
Why Visitability is Important
The importance of visitability extends far beyond those with immediate mobility concerns. Whether hosting a family member who uses a wheelchair, helping a friend with temporary mobility issues or preparing for your own potential needs in the future, a home designed with visitability in mind offers increased comfort, safety and convenience.
Homes and communities designed with visitability features allow everyone to navigate easily and safely. Imagine not having to worry about a flight of stairs when entering a home or accommodating a loved one who may not move as easily as they once did. These features also make it easier and safer for young children and aging pets and give homeowners peace of mind, knowing their space can welcome anyone.
Additionally, visitability isn't just about personal use. It also allows people to enjoy their homes with guests who may have mobility challenges. Whether it's welcoming a friend with a knee injury or hosting a family gathering, homes designed with visitability in mind create inclusive spaces where everyone feels comfortable and at ease.
Community amenities using visitability design features generally have wide sidewalks throughout the community so everyone can enjoy getting outdoors, and sloping walkways to the clubhouse so those with mobility issues can socialize and enjoy events with others.
How Epcon Communities Incorporates Visitability
Epcon Communities recognizes the value of visitability and may incorporate thoughtful design features into our luxury single-level homes to support a wide range of needs. Many communities and floor plans give homeowners options for zero-step entryways, eliminating the challenge of navigating stairs when entering the home. This makes day-to-day life easier and ensures visitors can access your home safely with less effort.
Epcon also offers options for wider doorways and hallways in most communities, which enhance the flow and accessibility throughout the home. These features make it easier to move around, whether you’re carrying groceries, moving furniture in or out of the house or using mobility assistance devices.
Another important option available in some Epcon Communities is the zero-entry shower. These showers eliminate the need to step over a threshold, offering safer, more convenient access. Whether you're dealing with limited mobility or simply looking for safer, easier accessibility, these showers provide both practicality and modern design.
Incorporating visitability into new homes and communities isn’t just about solving today’s challenges, it’s about ensuring they remain comfortable, safe and accessible for the future. Epcon Communities is dedicated to building new homes and communities that offer these thoughtful, inclusive features to enhance your lifestyle now and in the years to come.
Contact us to learn more about how Epcon Communities incorporates visitability into our new home design and community amenities and where we build.