Lifetime Design is both a movement and an organisation. The movement goes under different names in different parts of the world: "Universal Design" in Japan and the USA and "Inclusive Design" in Europe. It is based on the belief that living environments, products and services should be equally usable by all – especially in a world where the population is rapidly ageing and disability rates rising.
Lifetime Design Foundation was launched in New Zealand in 2007 by CCS Disability Action. It is committed to educating New Zealanders on the benefits of Lifetime Design principles, and working with designers, builders, architects, government and others to have those principles woven into all new products and services, including homes.
It owns the Lifemark award, which can only be displayed by products and services meeting a rigorous set of Lifetime Design specifications, proving they can be easily used, or adapted for use, by people of all ages and abilities.
"Lifetime Design" homes - the way of the future
Already a powerful movement in Europe, Japan, the USA and Australia, Lifetime Design takes into account the purchasing power of rapidly growing population groups, including older people and people who have a disability.
"Previous generations assumed you'd move into care or special housing as you aged or if you experienced disability," says Kevin. "That's no longer acceptable to the vast majority of people, who place a high value on independence."
The new homes are designed to be usable by everyone, regardless of age or mobility. Features such as step-free entrance ways, wide corridors, non-slip flooring, and power points, window controls and so on set at a height accessible and usable for everyone, are standard.
"Most people assume they'll never need such features," says Kevin. "But the fact is, we're living longer and we are a more diverse population. Even if you never need the features yourself, there's a high chance that relatives or visitors to your home will.
"What's unique is that where such homes in the past screamed 'institution', these ones really are 'designer' homes that anyone would be proud to own. Their resale value will actually be higher than ordinary houses, yet they cost no more to build.
"We're enormously proud to be leading the way for such housing in New Zealand."
Generation Developments is an Establishment Member of Lifetime Design Foundation and a member of the Sustainable Business Network.\ Click here for a newstory run by TV1 on New Zealands first Lifetime Design Showhome tvnz.co.nz/view/page/414443
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| The first "Lifetime" Designed home plans designed by Colin Davis for Generation Developments were given the " lifemark" seal of approval. | The launch of a lifetime! The national launch of Lifetime Design was held in Auckland, the concept of every body in every place was enthusiastically applauded by the 200 + people who attended the event. |
For more information about Lifetime Design and Lifetime Design Foundation:
Viv Maidaborn, Chief Executive, CCS Disability Action
Phone: 04 384 5677