Recently by Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D.

As I speak around the country about universal design housing, members of my audience composed of interior designers, architects, builders and consumers ask many questions. It has occurred to me over the past several years that there are many misconceptions about universal design. Let me share a few of the top myths and explain reality from my perspective.Myth: A home using universal design looks ugly, institutional and stereotypes the home so people know it was designed for a person with a disability.Reality: Professionally designed homes with universal design features and products enhance the beauty of a home while making it...

If you are looking to build or remodel a home that is more energy efficient, healthier, and uses more renewable and recycled materials, then build it "green." Green homes are environmentally friendly and cheaper to operate. There are many resources and organizations that focus on green building and give consumers tips. The U.S. Green Building Council (www.usgbc.org) is the nation's foremost coalition of leaders from across the building industry working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable, and healthy places to live and work. This non-profit organization has the LEED for Homes program in place to certify homes based...