In the next 20 years, the US population over age 65 will double, and
those over 85 will triple. Whether those facts spell a looming
juggernaut . . . or a huge market opportunity depends on one's point of
view.
FabCab has focused on the latter, and is creating a smart, ready-made house that can be assembled on-site as an "instant" Accessory Dwelling Unit. Recently displayed at the Seattle Home Show, this housing option offers the graying population a way to be close to family/caretaker support, while still providing independence & autonomy. Although not cheap -- builder estimates average about $145,000 for the 550 sq. ft. model -- this price includes installation, appliances, and all materials & finishes.
Aspects of the design appeal to a wide audience, even those not looking for Universal Design features. The company team at the Home Show noted that, ". . . some young 20-year-old said it was a great bachelor pad . . . then an older couple came through who was in their seventies and said, 'This would be perfect for our mother.'" Because of the stigma that some attach to the idea of Universal Design, the company refers to their design as "invisible accessibility". FabCab co-founder, Emory Baldwin, lives in a conventionally-built home designed with Universal Design principles. He says his entire family takes advantage of its features, and that "When you make things accessible, you make them easier for everyone to use."
FabCab feels that Universal Design principles will become the standard for all housing, and will spread into conventional house designs & green building certifications. FabCab has partnered with AARP, which will assist in promoting the company's ADU idea at an upcoming convention. Here is more on FabCab . . .
FabCab has focused on the latter, and is creating a smart, ready-made house that can be assembled on-site as an "instant" Accessory Dwelling Unit. Recently displayed at the Seattle Home Show, this housing option offers the graying population a way to be close to family/caretaker support, while still providing independence & autonomy. Although not cheap -- builder estimates average about $145,000 for the 550 sq. ft. model -- this price includes installation, appliances, and all materials & finishes.
Aspects of the design appeal to a wide audience, even those not looking for Universal Design features. The company team at the Home Show noted that, ". . . some young 20-year-old said it was a great bachelor pad . . . then an older couple came through who was in their seventies and said, 'This would be perfect for our mother.'" Because of the stigma that some attach to the idea of Universal Design, the company refers to their design as "invisible accessibility". FabCab co-founder, Emory Baldwin, lives in a conventionally-built home designed with Universal Design principles. He says his entire family takes advantage of its features, and that "When you make things accessible, you make them easier for everyone to use."
FabCab feels that Universal Design principles will become the standard for all housing, and will spread into conventional house designs & green building certifications. FabCab has partnered with AARP, which will assist in promoting the company's ADU idea at an upcoming convention. Here is more on FabCab . . .
Interesting post. The design is definitely very ADA friendly. I'm guessing they also have several designs to choose from based on site / orientation.
ReplyDelete-Debbie A