Enhancing the accessibility, adaptability and usability of Scotland's homes: consultation

Annex M – Section 13 of Part 1 of the current Housing for Varying Needs design guide: Kitchens

The clauses within Section 13 of Part 1 of the current Housing for Varying Needs design guide are set out in the table starting on the next page. Where a clause relates to dwellings specifically for older people, dwellings specifically for older or disabled people, dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people, or dwellings for wheelchair users, this is highlighted within the table.

Column 3 of the table shows our proposal for each clause for the update to Part 1 of the Housing for Varying Needs design guide. In the case of the clauses that we are proposing to retain within the updated guide, the design criteria that we are proposing to include ‘as standard’ in future dwellings delivered to Housing for Varying Needs standards through the Affordable Housing Supply Programme for each category of need – and to accommodation delivered through the Gypsy/Traveller Accommodation Fund (or subsequent funding) where the standard is relevant in Gypsy/Traveller accommodation – are highlighted in the third column of the table.

Informed by the proposals detailed in Chapter 3, column 4 shows which clauses are proposed to be introduced into building standards and guidance to implement the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard, along with those that are not applicable for inclusion.

It is important to note that the final proposals contained in the table will be subject to change based upon the outcome of the consultation.

13 Kitchens

13.1 The needs

13.1.1 All kitchens must be designed to be convenient and safe to use by the occupants, to accommodate the appliances and equipment that users are likely to need and to have adequate and accessible storage for food and utensils.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs updates

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Not standard design criteria.

13.1 The needs

13.1.2 The needs of wheelchair users in relation to kitchens are very specific and are given separately in Sections 13.5 – 13.12.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs updates

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Not standard design criteria.

13.2 Layout

13.2.1 The layout of the fittings and appliances should give a continuous sequence of worktop-sink-worktop-cooker/hob-worktop.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that this design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception B Clause falls out of scope of building regulations.

13.2 Layout

13.2.2 A simple way to assess the convenience of a kitchen layout is the ‘work triangle’, formed by lines joining the centre front of the sink, cooker/hob and fridge. For a kitchen to have adequate working space and yet be reasonably compact the route from sink to cooker should be between 1.2 and 1.9 metres long and the total length of the sides of the work triangle should be between 3.6 and 6.6 metres. Through circulation routes should not cut across the work triangle, particularly in family houses where children may run across the working area.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Not standard design criteria.

13.2 Layout

13.2.3 There must be a clear space of at least 1200mm in front of all fittings and appliances to allow easy access and circulation space.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that this design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Include (see Chapter 3, Table 1).

13.2 Layout

A clear floor space which includes an area 1500mm by 1500mm will allow the kitchen to be adapted for use by someone using a wheelchair.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Remove – superseded by Building Standards Technical Handbook: Domestic, Clause 3.11.3.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception A Clause already identified as being included in or superseded by building standards.

13.2 Layout

13.2.4 Appliances should be allowed for as follows: - floor space for a cooker or space for a worktop hob and built-in oven, a fridge-freezer 1700mm high and a washing machine - worktop space for microwave oven, and - space for at least one other appliance (tumble drier with vent, dishwasher). All floor mounted appliances should be taken to have a width and depth of 600mm. It can be presumed that, where the location allows and ventilation can be provided, tumble driers can be stacked on washing machines.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that these design criteria would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception B Clause falls out of scope of building regulations.

13.2 Layout

13.2.5 The space for a cooker or hob must never be in front of a window or where window curtains could be over the hob. The side of wall units must be at least 100mm clear of the space over a cooker or hob.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that these design criteria would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception B Clause falls out of scope of building regulations.

13.2 Layout

13.2.6 Dwellings specifically for older people: People with dementia may be able to use a conventional cooker but will find a split hob and oven very confusing.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Remove – this clause is considered outdated.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.2 Layout

13.2.7 Dwellings specifically for older or disabled people: The controls for kitchen window ventilation must not be obstructed by kitchen units or appliances, or there should be remote or automatic control of ventilation (see also Section 16.3).

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that this design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings specifically for older or disabled people.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.2 Layout

Fig 13.1 Examples of worktop-sink-worktop-cooker-worktop arrangements

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Figure only.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

13.3.1 Adequate storage is essential to the convenience of a kitchen.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Not standard design criteria.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

The Technical Standards [3], Part Q, require all dwellings to have at least 1m³ of storage in the kitchen, but this is a very minimal amount even for small households and inadequate in family housing.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Remove – superseded by Building Standards Technical Handbook: Domestic, Clause 3.11.3.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception A Clause already identified as being included in or superseded by building standards.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

Kitchen storage, excluding storage for cleaning equipment, etc (see Section 12.1), should be between 1.5m³ and 2.0m³, depending on the size of the dwelling.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that this design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Include (see Chapter 3, Table 1).

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

13.3.2 All worktops should be 600mm deep to accommodate standard sized appliances below them and be at the standard height of 900mm from the floor.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that these design criteria would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Include (see Chapter 3, Table 1).

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

Storage units that fully occupy the space below worktops will increase the volume of storage provided, but the rear and lower part of this will be out of sight and difficult to reach unless it is fitted with pull-out shelves or baskets.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Not standard design criteria.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

Units that are 500mm deep are preferable and also have the benefit of providing a 100mm space for service pipes below the back of the worktop.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Not standard design criteria.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

13.3.3 Shelves more than 1700mm from the floor will be difficult for many people to reach. Users who have difficulty in bending and/ or stretching will benefit from some shelved storage between 400mm and 1500mm from floor level. This can be provided either in a walk-in cupboard, or a shelved, tall kitchen unit, or proprietary wall units fixed at the appropriate height.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Not standard design criteria.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

13.3.4 Where kitchens may be used by people with visual impairment, worktop colours should be neither very dark nor very light and should not be heavily patterned.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Not standard design criteria.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

A slightly raised front edge to the worktop will help contain spills and help prevent items falling to the floor. This is best achieved by being incorporated in a post-formed worktop.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Not standard design criteria.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

13.3.5 Dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people: The kitchen fittings need not be of special design, though they should have doors that open through 170^o-180^o to allow easier access to the storage space.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that this design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

Dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people: It is also important that the fixing of hinges to base unit doors are strong enough to withstand the doors being used as a support by someone rising from a bending position.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that this design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

Dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people: Handles should be of the ‘D’ type and at least 100mm long and at least 25mm from the unit face.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain – although the text would be updated to include reference to other options such as handle-less ‘pop-open’ door styles, which could be considered in cases where this would be appropriate for the needs of the household.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

13.3.6 Dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people: The standard worktop height of 900mm will be satisfactory for most people but it is desirable to have some work surface at a height of 750mm – 800mm that can be used while sitting down and which has knee space below it. This can either be a section of worktop or a kitchen or dining table.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

13.3.7 Dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people: Wall units should be positioned as low as compatible with providing a clear view of the worktop. Shelves should be at maximum height of 1500mm from the floor.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that these design criteria would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

Dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people: Wall unit doors should preferably be no more than 400mm wide so that when open they do not form a dangerous obstruction.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain – although the word ‘preferably’ would not be included in the updated guide.

Please note that this updated design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

13.3.8 Dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people: The floor finish should be slip-resistant.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain – but reference to Section 15.2 would be added to this clause in the updated guide.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

13.3.9 Dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people: A few people who are ambulant but otherwise seriously impaired will need a kitchen adapted to their particular needs, incorporating the appropriate features described for wheelchair users in Sections 13.5, et seq.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain – although the words ‘but otherwise seriously impaired’ would not be included in the updated guide.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

13.3.10 Dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people: People with dementia may require doors to be removed from kitchen units so that they can see where things are stored.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain – although the updated guide would also be clear that glazed or transparent unit doors may also be appropriate for people with dementia.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.3 Kitchen units and storage

Fig 13.2 Dwellings specifically for older or ambulant disabled people: Kitchen fittings for older or ambulant disabled people.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Figure only.

13.4 Controls and services

13.4.1 Taps should be as described in Section 17.5.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

See Section 17.5.

13.4 Controls and services

13.4.2 Sockets should be provided as described in 18.2.3 and these, switches and other controls positioned as shown in the table in 18.2.11.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

See Section 18.2.

13.5 General considerations for kitchens in dwellings for wheelchair users

13.5.1 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Kitchens should whenever possible be fitted to suit the needs of the specific occupier or household. This in particular involves the height of the worktop and the position of controls. The overall layout of the kitchen will usually be the same for any user.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.5 General considerations for kitchens in dwellings for wheelchair users

13.5.2 Dwellings for wheelchair users: It is first necessary to assess what the needs of the household are. These will fall into three broad categories of kitchen use:

Solely or primarily for use by someone in a wheelchair: - This will need fittings at a height to suit the wheelchair user. The need for the worktop to be adjustable should be assessed against the expected life of the fittings and the likelihood of adjustment being necessary before the fittings need replacing.

For use to a significant extent by both someone in a wheelchair and an ambulant person: - This will need a combination of worktop heights and the sink will need to be of the type that can readily be adjusted in height.

Primarily for use by ambulant people, but with limited use by someone in a wheelchair: - In this situation, such as a family with a child who uses a wheelchair, there is likely to be a preference for standard kitchen storage units, certainly for worktops at a standard height, with a section of worktop at a height suited to the wheelchair user.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.5 General considerations for kitchens in dwellings for wheelchair users

13.5.3 Dwellings for wheelchair users: The layout of the fittings and appliances should give a continuous sequence of worktop-sink-worktop-cooker/hob-worktop.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that this design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.5 General considerations for kitchens in dwellings for wheelchair users

13.5.4 Dwellings for wheelchair users: In all situations the kitchen must be of a size that allows a clear space of 1500mm in front of fittings and appliances to allow a wheelchair user space to manoeuvre and turn through 180^o, i.e. a circular area of 1500mm diameter (see 2.5.1).

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

See Chapter 2 for key proposed update.

13.5 General considerations for kitchens in dwellings for wheelchair users

13.5.5 Dwellings for wheelchair users: The controls for window ventilation must not be obstructed by kitchen units or appliances or there should be remote or automatic control of ventilation (see also 16.3).

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that this design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.6 Work surfaces

13.6.1 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Worktops, the sink and the hob must be set at a height that best suits the user. For a person in a wheelchair this is likely to range between 700mm and 850mm from the floor.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that the design criterion set out in the first sentence would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.6 Work surfaces

13.6.2 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Worktops should have rounded post-formed edges as people may have to lean against them.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that this design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.6 Work surfaces

Dwellings for wheelchair users: The edge may include an upstand, see 13.3.4.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.6 Work surfaces

Fig 13.3 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Kitchen worktop for wheelchair user

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Figure only.

13.6 Work surfaces

13.6.3 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Proprietary kitchen units for people in wheelchairs allow for different worktop heights, though the method of adjustment varies. Some units are designed on the basis of an ability to adjust the height of the plinth or supports to the needs of a particular occupant at the time of fitting, and change this when the occupant changes or needs become different. Other, more specialised, and more costly, units have adjustable brackets and slotted wall channels. These are more easily adjusted and may therefore be more cost effective if frequent change is likely. Units are generally 600mm deep.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.6 Work surfaces

13.6.4 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Wheelchair users will require knee space under the main work surface, the sink and the hob. It is therefore of great benefit if these are adjacent and the knee space beneath them is uninterrupted. Such a layout is usually best achieved by an L shaped arrangement. Any knee space should be at least 750mm wide, and 500mm deep.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that the design criteria set out in the first and fourth sentences would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.6 Work surfaces

13.6.5 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Where work surfaces turn a corner a splayed front edge for a length of at least 600mm is more convenient than a right angle. In either case a wheelchair user will have difficulty reaching into the corner and it is therefore beneficial if the wall at that point is blocked out to form a matching splay and the worktop retains a 600mm depth.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.7 Kitchen units and storage

13.7.1 Dwellings for wheelchair users: The provision of sufficient storage space is a usual problem in a kitchen, but this is particularly so in kitchens designed for wheelchair users, where reach is limited and knee space rather than storage is provided under worktops. It is therefore essential that in addition to the storage that can be obtained in units under the worktop or wall units, there is shelved storage space reaching between 400mm and 1350mm from the floor and adjacent to the main work area.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that the design criteria set out in the final sentence would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.7 Kitchen units and storage

13.7.2 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Wall units should be no more than 300mm deep and be set at a height of about 300mm above the worktop.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that these design criteria would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.7 Kitchen units and storage

Dwellings for wheelchair users: It may be preferable to have at least some wall units as open shelving without doors.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.7 Kitchen units and storage

Dwellings for wheelchair users: Wall unit doors should be no more than 400mm wide so that they do not form a dangerous obstruction when open.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that this design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.7 Kitchen units and storage

Dwellings for wheelchair users: In family housing the upper shelves of taller wall units, though not reachable from a wheelchair, can be useful for items that are used infrequently.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.7 Kitchen units and storage

13.7.3 Dwellings for wheelchair users: The kitchen units should have doors that open through 170^o – 180^o.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that this design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.7 Kitchen units and storage

Dwellings for wheelchair users: Handles should be of the ‘D’ type, at least 150mm long, with a diameter of 20mm – 25mm and with a clearance of at least 25mm from the unit face.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain – although the text would be updated to include other options such as handle-less ‘pop-open’ door styles which could be considered in cases where this would be appropriate for the needs of the household.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.7 Kitchen units and storage

13.7.4 Dwellings for wheelchair users: The units should also incorporate pull-out worktops, below the oven and elsewhere, which can be used to extend the main work area. A mobile trolley should be provided as part of the kitchen storage. Full use should be made in storage units of fittings such as carousels, pull out baskets etc to make the storage as convenient and accessible as possible.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that these design criteria would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.7 Kitchen units and storage

Fig 13.4 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Kitchen fittings for wheelchair users.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Figure only.

13.8 Sinks

13.8.1 Dwellings for wheelchair users: The height of sinks should be adjustable along with the worktop and all pipe connections should be flexible to allow for this. It will generally suffice if the adjustment can be done in the same manner as the worktop height, however, for some households it may be thought desirable to have a special sink that can be adjusted on a day-to-day basis.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that the design criteria set out in the first sentence would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.8 Sinks

13.8.2 Dwellings for wheelchair users: The depth of the sink bowl should be 150mm – 175mm to be convenient for use and yet be shallow enough not to interfere with the knee space below it. For the same reason the waste outlet and trap must be at the back of the sink. The sink bowl and all exposed hot water pipes in the knee space under the sink must be insulated to avoid burns to the legs of people with sensory impairment (see also 17.4).

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain – although reference to ‘to avoid burns to the legs of people with sensory impairment’ would not be included in the updated guide.

Please note that these design criteria would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.8 Sinks

13.8.3 Dwellings for wheelchair users: A mixer tap should be provided and positioned so that a kettle or pan can be filled from it while resting on the drainer or work surface and then, if necessary, be slid along the work surface to the hob. The tap should therefore be on the hob side of the sink.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that these design criteria would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.8 Sinks

Dwellings for wheelchair users: It is generally preferable to have the tap at the back corner of the bowl, though some users will prefer taps in the usual position behind the bowl. Users with limited reach will need special tap controls to be positioned on the fascia of the sink.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.8 Sinks

Dwellings for wheelchair users: Taps should be as 17.5.2, et seq.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.8 Sinks

Fig 13.5 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Sink

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Figure only.

13.9 Cooking facilities

13.9.1 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Cooking facilities will generally be a separate hob with knee space below and an oven fitted within a housing unit. The height at which the oven is set will be dictated by the height of the oven shelves that best suits the users and their ability to reach the controls, which on most ovens are at the top of the unit. In general the base of the oven should be set at 750mm from the floor.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.9 Cooking facilities

13.9.2 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Most wheelchair users will prefer the oven door to be side hinged as a bottom hinged door impedes their ability to reach into the oven and may burn their knees. There should be a pull-out shelf below the oven and a laying space on a worktop, adjacent to the oven on the opposite side to the door hinge and with knee space below.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.9 Cooking facilities

13.9.3 Dwellings for wheelchair users: There should also be worktop space for a microwave oven on a worktop unless a microwave is preferred as the main oven, which may be the case for severely disabled people living on their own. Again there should be a laying space on a worktop, adjacent to the oven on the opposite side to the door hinge and with knee space below.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain – although the text ‘unless a microwave is preferred as the main oven, which may be the case for severely disabled people living on their own’ would not be included in the updated guide.

Please note that the updated design criterion set out in the first sentence would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.9 Cooking facilities

13.9.4 Dwellings for wheelchair users: A hob with staggered hot plates may be preferred to a square one as some users may have difficulty reaching over pans on the front hobs to those at the back. The controls should preferably be positioned towards the front of the hob, however many hobs are manufactured with the controls at the side of the plates or rings. If these cannot be reached special controls should be positioned on the worktop fascia. The underside of the hob must be well insulated to prevent it burning the user's knees.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that the design criterion set out in the fourth sentence would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users in cases where a hob is provided.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.9 Cooking facilities

Fig 13.6 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Cooking facilities for wheelchair users.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Figure only.

13.10 Other appliances

13.10.1 Dwellings for wheelchair users: In kitchens for wheelchair use there should be space for: - a fridge - a freezer, separate from the fridge* - a washing machine - a tumble drier, with vent, and - a dishwasher, in dwellings designed for four or more people. (*A combined fridge-freezer will only be appropriate if the top shelf is no higher than 1050mm and models of this size are unlikely to be adequate for a family.)

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain – although the text would be updated to note that space for a washing machine and a tumble dryer, with vent, would not be required in the kitchen where a utility room is provided with space and connections available for these appliances (see clause 13.13.2 below).

Please note that these updated design criteria would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.10 Other appliances

13.10.2 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Stacking of appliances will generally not be an option as the higher one would be out of reach from a wheelchair. Nor will it be possible to fit appliances under worktops that are set at a height to suit wheelchair users. Space for appliances therefore must be positioned clear of the worktop-sink-worktop-hob-worktop sequence and allowance made for the change in height where this occurs. One continuous run of space to take all floor mounted appliances will allow maximum flexibility for different permutations of equipment. Fridges may be fitted in a housing unit at a convenient height for the user; otherwise it is helpful if appliances are on a 300mm – 400mm high plinth to bring them to a position that is more easily reached.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that the design criteria set out in the third sentence would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.10 Other appliances

Fig 13.7 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Appliances on plinth

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Figure only.

13.10 Other appliances

Fig 13.8 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Example of worktop-sink-worktop-cooker-worktop arrangements .

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Figure only.

13.11 Finishes

13.11.1 Dwellings for wheelchair users: It is desirable that a splash back at least 300mm high is provided behind all worktops and sinks.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain – although the clause would be amended in the updated guide to read as follows: ‘A splash back at least 300mm high should be provided behind all worktops and sinks.’.

Please note that this updated design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.11 Finishes

13.11.2 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Where the height of worktops and/ or sinks is readily adjustable and there is therefore no seal at the junction with the wall, the wall will need to have an impermeable surface of tiles or suitable sheet material from approximately 650mm to 1200mm from the floor, which will form a splashback.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Please note that this design criterion would require to be delivered ‘as standard’ in future in dwellings for wheelchair users in cases where the height of worktops and/ or sinks is readily adjustable.

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.11 Finishes

13.11.3 Dwellings for wheelchair users: The floor finish should be slip resistant as described in Section 15.2.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.12 Electrical services

13.12.1 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Sockets should be provided as described in 18.2.3 and these, switches and other controls positioned as described in 18.2.11.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

13.12 Electrical services

13.12.2 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Power sockets in relation to worktops should be as 18.2.7.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.13 Laundry/ utility areas

13.13.1 Laundry facilities outwith the kitchen are particularly desirable in dwellings shared by unrelated people and in family houses when the main dining area is in the kitchen.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Not standard design criteria.

13.13 Laundry/ utility areas

13.13.2 Dwellings for wheelchair users: When an internal space is needed for the storage and recharging of electric scooters, this can be combined with the accommodation of a washing machine and possibly a tumble drier to form a utility area.

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Not applicable

Exception C Clause applies to housing designed for specific user group.

13.13 Laundry/ utility areas

Fig 13.9 Dwellings for wheelchair users: Utility area

Proposed Housing for Varying Needs update

Retain

Proposals for the Scottish Accessible Homes Standard

Figure only.