I am one of two Universal Design Certified Professionals in the State of Idaho. Occasionally, I get asked what that means, so here is the 411 on my UDCP certification. I belong to NARI, and I passed an exam years ago to prove my knowledge. I continue to get continuing education and recertify annually. I jump at the chance to problem-solve in an effort to up my game, designing spaces that work for people of all ages and abilities. This certification provides me with the tools to make that happen.

What Is Universal Design?

Houses are typically built for the generic person. The average height, weight, eyesight, physical ability, etc. Anyone who is outside of the norm is  SOL, as we say, and needs to just deal with it or do something about it. This is where UD comes in. Sure, there are plenty of small things that can be done following the basic guidelines and principles. Wouldn’t it be great to share and get more professionals into the mix who bring their wealth of knowledge into play?  As a collaborator, nothing would make me happier.

Our Secret Weapon

Amy War

Levco has paired up with an exceptional physical therapist, Amy War, who brings decades of experience to the table. As a collaborator, she can often spot the need for something refreshing and new ideas that may not be mainstream yet. At a chance meeting at a friend’s home, anticipating her return after a fractured hip, the next-door neighbor couldn’t wait to assess the situation and offer some wisdom after taking in the space.

“Take this door off the hinges, add an L-shaped grab bar here and here, and this is an image of a transfer bench that would work if you could temporarily remove the glass shower door.” Could I have figured all that out? Maybe, but it would not have been as perfect, insightful, and reassuring to her husband. I was convinced that she was on the right track, too. A minimalist and realist, we were on the same sheet of music from the get-go.

Your House Could Hurt You

I speak from experience, my house hurt me. Sadly, I stepped out of the shower onto a slippery floor and down I went, whacking my elbow on the toilet as I went down, which broke my fall. I only hurt my rotator cuff and my pride. No surgery, but it could come to that down the road. A rubber-backed floor mat was a temporary measure, but you can bet that when it is time to remodel the bathroom, the flooring is next to go. As my best friend Howard says, “What I would give for a pause button and a time machine.”

As a Paramedic for decades, I have seen my share of accidents that have happened a home. To preemptively intervene and reduce or eliminate the risk would be frosting on my career.

If You Need Us…

Nothing would make us happier than to visit and make recommendations on how to make your home or your loved one’s home suitable for safety and comfort. The time it takes to evaluate your home is well spent. The fee for services is minimal compared to the wealth of knowledge and experience we bring to your home. Call today to schedule an in-house inspection with either one of us or both of us.

Your comments are welcome. To ask questions or get more information about remodeling, click here to email me directly, or call 208-947-7261

If you or someone you know is considering remodeling or would like to speak with a passionate and trustworthy remodeling contractor, please contact us. You’ll be glad you did.