Accessibility and the G.R.E.A.T Project
The GREAT Housing project aims to create housing that is permanently affordable, has a significantly lower environmental impact than similar buildings, and serves those most in need in the community. Reaching all of these goals is a challenge but we believe a model of community investment will provide a strong foundation for this pilot project.
If we want to serve the full community this means that we must have units that meet the needs of people regardless of ability or disability. From a design standpoint (see future posts on the co-op model to engage and involve tenants), the stacked rowhouse building type provides fully accessible units at grade (per Federal and Provincial codes). These ground floor/ main level units include attributes aimed at ensuring current and future ease of use for residents, as well as features that improve the overall functionality of the home to be adapted economically as required (ie: modified cabinetry, furniture, shelves and cupboards, etc.).
Access to the building and the spaces within these units was planned to enable independent living for persons with disabilities, encompassing zero-step level entries, canopied (overhang) porches, and wide exterior and interior doorways to accommodate people using mobility devices. We believe the “front porch” entry design with continuous canopy provides comfortable, sheltered, and accessible shared outdoor space that allows both privacy and a sense of community.
Indoors, lever door handles are installed throughout, and there is front closet space near the entrance. The floor plan allows for flexible furniture layouts and includes open turning spaces; bathrooms feature a roll-in shower and reinforced walls to support grab bars; in-unit laundry areas are on the same floor as the living area and are equipped with front loading machines. Storage area outside of the unit is lockable, with room for walkers or wheelchairs/ electric scooters. The design of this two-story building also features wide staircases to upper units to allow for future installations of chair lifts.
There is, of course, more to accessibility than just design and as we learn and develop we look forward to operating with inclusive policies and practices.