Cabinets and Storage
Storage Space is a particularly troublesome issue for people with
limited mobility. For many, a significant portion of conventional
kitchen storage space is out of reach. In addition, available base
cabinet space is reduced when making a kitchen accessible to people
who use wheelchairs. By selecting more efficient and accessible
storage options, much of this space can be recovered.
The following table provides some information on shelving height for
people with various mobility limitations.
Comfort Zones
| Comfort zones |
Standing/ Walking unassisted |
Walking with assistance* |
Sitting |
| Maximum upper cabinet reach: |
|
|
68 in |
63" |
60" |
|
|
77 in |
68 in |
48 in |
| Maximum vision for items on a high shelf |
61 in |
61 in |
48 in |
| Maximum height of storage for daily use |
74 in |
65 in |
45 in |
| *Leaning on another
person; or using a cane, crutches or walker |
| Source: Whirlpool Home Appliances
|
- Full Extension Drawers
A deep drawer which extends the full depth
of the base cabinet, and is mounted on full extensions slides. These
drawers are similar to those found in an office file cabinet.
| Recommended Drawer Heights |
| Purpose |
Height |
| Silver, small tools |
3-4 inches |
| Spices |
3-4 inches |
| Linens |
3-4 inches |
| Saucepans |
6-7 inches |
| Canned foods |
6-7 inches |
| Canisters |
11-12 inches |
| Large packaged foods |
11-12 inches |
| Shallow utensils, stored vertically |
12-13 inches |
- Carts
Rolling carts which fit into knee space under countertops
can provide additional storage.
- Can be easily rolled out to provide knee space.
- Cart tops can provided additional work space.
- Carts provide a safe way to transport food and utensils.
- Countertop Storage Unit
The space between
countertop and upper cabinets can provide easily reachable open
storage.
- Overhead Cabinet Doors
Traditional swinging
wall cabinet doors can be a hazard for blind people. Hardware which
allows the cabinet doors to swing up and stay open can reduce this
problem.
- Concealed Knee Space
Retractable doors can be
used to conceal knee space. Special hardware allows the door to be
pushed back under counter after opening.
- Pantry
A pantry can provide easily accessible storage
space. Height adjustable shelving can tailor the space to individual
needs. Shallow shelves keep items within easy reach. The pantry can
be a reach-in unit with storage shelving on the doors, or even a
walk-in design.
Other Accessible Storage Options
Additional options for accessible storage include:
- Storage bins
- Pull-Out storage
- Revolving shelves
- Swing-out shelves
The following suggestions are modifications which can be readily and
inexpensively made to existing kitchens to make them more accessible.
- Add Storage Bins
The addition of pull-out storage bins to shelves and
cabinets can help make existing storage space accessible.
Lower Existing Cabinets
Existing overhead cabinets can be lowered down as far as the
top surface of existing counters if necessary. This provides
accessible storage at minimal cost. Cabinets may be lowered to 12 to
15 inches above the counters, while keeping the counter surface
usable.
Add a free standing storage cabinet
If floor space is available, a freestanding storage cabinet can
provide accessible storage space.
All drawers, doors, and hardware should be selected to provide easy
access for people with limited dexterity. Recommended features include:
- Sliding or folding doors for cabinets provide for the least
interference.
- Magnetic catches on the doors.
- Large loop handles on doors and drawers.
- Toe space on base cabinets should be at least 9 inches high, and
6 inches deep to allow wheelchair users to maneuver closer to the
counters.
[Introduction]
[Layout]
[Electrical]
[Refrigerator]
[Dishwasher]
[Microwave]
[Oven]
[Range]
[Sink]
[Countertops]
[Storage]
[References]