Mug reads "Less is More"

Mug reads “Less is More”

With the release of new research by the IDea Center, it is clear that the current code standards for “how big” might not accommodate as many people who use mobility devices as we would like. While the International Code Council is looking into what changes might be reasonable in future code iterations to respond to the research data, there are some things you can do now to increase the chance of accommodating more people.

Don’t design to the minimums.

When it comes to the size of a toilet stall or a clear floor space, more is better. “How much more?” is the obvious next question. Until we know the answer, I’d say “whatever you can provide!” If you can eek out 6″ more for a toilet stall depth or in the turning radius, that would be useful and appreciated.

Be cautious that you are designing above minimums, not outside of a given range. If the code says “18 inches minimum” then more is ok. If it says “16 to 18 inches”, then more is NOT allowed. You know the drill.

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