environmental access consulting and design

why invest in accessible living spaces?

The concept of accessible dwellings and living spaces transcends mere physical accommodations; it profoundly influences an individual's domain-specific functioning within their home.

Life span housing, also called life cycle housing, lifetime homes, or adaptable housing, is a paradigm that recognizes the evolving needs of individuals over their lifetime. It aims to create living spaces that can adapt to changes in human functioning, allowing occupants to age in place and remain in their homes for as long as possible.

Universal design, or universal housing, represents an inclusive approach to designing, constructing, and adapting housing to meet the diverse needs of all occupants, irrespective of age, functioning, or social situation. This holistic philosophy ensures that living spaces are accessible to everyone, promoting independence and inclusivity.

Research consistently indicates the profound impact of accessible home environments on the health and well-being of individuals with functional impairments. Those residing in accessible homes demonstrate better health outcomes and a more remarkable ability to accomplish daily tasks, fostering independence compared to those living in conventional or inaccessible settings.

Recognizing this, a universal impetus exists to promote and facilitate accessible housing for individuals with functional impairments and other medical conditions, thereby contributing to improved health outcomes.

What are the benefits of accessible housing?

The benefits of accessible housing extend beyond physical health. Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of home modifications in reducing the likelihood of falls and injuries for individuals with functional impairments. Additionally, interventions in accessible housing design have been identified as positively impacting the quality of life. Even seemingly minor adjustments, such as optimizing lighting in living areas, have been shown to enhance the well-being of adults with low vision.

Lakeshore Barrier Free actively engages with and is dedicated to assisting clients with various health conditions, aligning with the principles of accessible and universal design. Beyond the physical realm, research highlights positive psychological effects in homes undergoing accessibility interventions. For instance, older adults with functional difficulties reported significantly less fear of falling, showcasing the holistic benefits of creating homes that are not only physically accessible but also psychologically supportive.

We are committed to promoting accessible housing solutions that transcend the traditional understanding of accommodation. By embracing life span housing and universal design principles, we strive to create living environments that foster independence, improve health outcomes, and positively impact the overall well-being of our clients.

our work

Lakeshore Barrier Free is a beacon of commitment and compassion, dedicating years of tireless effort to enhance the living conditions and accessibility of homes for individuals facing significant health challenges. Our unwavering mission is rooted in the belief that everyone, regardless of their health condition, deserves a living space that supports their unique needs and fosters a sense of independence.



Our clientele encompasses diverse individuals, each with their own challenges. We have extended our services to those recovering from catastrophic injuries, individuals grappling with severe health conditions, and children born with medical conditions that pose obstacles to navigating ordinary living spaces. Lakeshore Barrier Free understands the unique struggles faced by these individuals. It is steadfast in making their homes more accessible and conducive to a better quality of life.

Our work has been particularly impactful for those with various medical conditions, including muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and multiple sclerosis. Lakeshore Barrier Free has become a trusted partner for individuals dealing with the complexities of these health challenges, providing tailored solutions to address their specific needs and facilitate an environment where they can thrive.

In addition to our commitment to individuals facing catastrophic injuries and severe health conditions, we have also extended our expertise to families with children born with congenital heart disease, spina bifida, Down syndrome, genetic metabolic disorders, and cerebral palsy. Recognizing children's unique requirements with these conditions, our team collaborates closely with families to implement modifications that enhance accessibility and safety, ensuring that these young individuals can navigate their living spaces with greater ease.