Glass Block Blogger

If you are remodeling your home, consider Universal Design. Universal Design is when all spaces of your home are accessible to all people, regardless of their age, size, or ability. As we, our friends and our relatives, are all living longer, accessibility and lighting become incredibly important in our homes.

The NAHB says “Some universal design features just make good sense. Once you bring them into your home, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. For example:”

• Floors and bathtubs with non-slip surfaces help everyone stay on their feet. They’re not just for people who are frail. The same goes for handrails on steps and grab bars in bathrooms.
• Thresholds that are flush with the floor make it easy for a wheelchair to get through a doorway. They also keep others from tripping.
• Good lighting helps people with poor vision. And it helps everyone else see better, too.
• Lever door handles and rocker light switches are great for people with poor hand strength. But others like them too. Try using these devices when your arms are full of packages. You’ll never go back to knobs or standard switches.

Universal Design Living Laboratory  is a project started by Rosemarie Rossetti Ph. D to help people better understand how to create a more comfortable living environment that will enhance the quality of life. Glass Block is an excellent building material to enhance quality of life by shining light into rooms while providing a remarkable style of architecture.

Rosemarie Rossetti & Mark Leder in Universal Design Master Bathroom

Rosemarie said “When we saw the glass block and the mural at the International Builders Show, we immediately knew we wanted to use it in the design,”. “We eventually decided on three forms of windows for the basement and home office. They are a very big element of the southern wall and provide remarkable light virtually eliminating the need for any artificial light in the daytime. On sunny days they really make the whole room sparkle.”

At Eastern Glass Block, we have been designing and installing glass block for 20 years in the New York and New Jersey area. Call us at 800-635-1226 and we will share our experience in designing a cost-effective and sustainable design for your next remodel or build.