Accessibility
Rocker switches to help ease arthritis discomfort
Part of Doug Walter's expertise is in accessibility, universal design, and aging-in-place remodeling. Accessibility and universal design often mean different things to different people. Doug takes everyone's views and limitations into consideration, and then he raises the bar with designs that ensure function and beauty. From small details like rocker switches, grab bars and double handrails to stunning elevators, Doug’s unique vision creates usable spaces for the enjoyment of all.
Over the past 22 years Doug Walter Architects has designed dozens of pro bono accessible remodels for deserving clients from the Home Builders Foundation, Easter Seals Handicamp, Jewish Family Service, and Habitat for Humanity. He holds an ICC (International Code Council) certificate as Accessibility Inspector, helped write the CAPS (Certified Aging In Place Specialist) curriculum for NAHB.
Testimonials
“Spaces designed to preserve independence, provide dignity and make everyday live easier.” - Jim R.
Some people design houses. Doug changes lives.
We had the incredible good fortune of working with Doug on the remodel of our 1950’s home, and looking back, partnering with him was one of the best decisions we could have made.
Our home had only one bathroom on the main floor and a linen closet. Because of the need of my 93-year-old mother-in-law and my own journey with multiple sclerosis, we desperately needed an ADA accessible bathroom. We also hoped to find room for a second main floor bathroom and a front hall coat closet. We honestly were not sure it was even possible.
From the very first meeting, it became clear that Doug’s greatest gift is not simply architecture. It is listening.
He did not arrive with preconceived ideas or a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, he asked thoughtful questions, listened carefully, and worked to understand not just what we wanted, but why it mattered. He measured every inch of our home, studied the quirks and challenges created by renovations that a previous homeowner had completed themselves over the years, and embraced what seemed like an impossible design challenge.
Then he did something remarkable.
He saw possibilities where we saw limitations.
What Doug ultimately created was not just an ADA accessible bathroom, a second bathroom, and a coat closet. He transformed the way our home works for our family. He designed spaces that preserve our independence, provide dignity, and make everyday life easier, all while creating something stunningly beautiful. Every time we walk through these rooms, we are reminded that exceptional design is not just about appearance. It is about improving the way people live.
Doug is an extraordinarily talented architect, but what will stay with us long after the construction is complete is the way he treated us throughout the entire process. His communication was outstanding. He kept us informed, answered every question with patience, and made us feel like our project mattered as much to him as it did to us. We never felt like just another client. We felt like partners.
Jim R. - Houzz Testimonial
“Doug is an all-around talented, generous, and compassionate person, and I’m so glad that Habitat for Humanity is among the organizations that he has chosen to support. Doug really makes a difference in many ways, and I appreciate all that he does.”
