Building for a Lifetime signals an important change that is taking place in the way we design, build and remodel houses. Traditionally designed houses work well for young, able-bodied adults, but not so well for people who are injured, chronically ill or simply aging. But with houses designed and built to accommodate change, people of all ages and abilities can enjoy an independent and satisfying life without having to move. This landmark book shows how such houses are planned, built and appointed, and how they can be attractive and distinctive architectural creations as well.

Whether you're planning a new house or undertaking a small-scale remodeling project, this book will inspire and inform you. It will force you to think about the broader issues of residential architecture, construction and product design. Building for a Lifetime sets a new standard in the field by providing design and construction details that will help you:

• Choose an appropriate site and design accessible approaches, driveways, pathways, ramps and entrances
• Select the hardware, appliances and systems that work best for all people, regardless of their abilities or disabilities
• Design better doors, windows and stairways
• Build or remodel kitchens and bathrooms
• Understand accessibility goals and standards
• Create a living environment that meets your expectations of aesthetics, function and self-expression.

"Building for a lifetime is a concept whose time has come. This much-needed book is rich in valuable information on how to design, build and modify homes for accessibility, safety and comfort."
--Jon Pynoos, Ph.D.; Director, National Eldercare Institute on Housing and Supportive Services