Initial Presentation

My initial presentation about recommendations for the King Family remodel was last night and went well (I think!). A few additional products/concepts were discussed that I should note:

• Anti slam devices for doors: This will prohibit Steve from slamming doors and also lessen the door closing noises that he may have issues with.
• Self-closing door slides should be installed on the cabinets to ensure that they close quietly.
• Shower/bath controls should be set within easy reach of an assistant if Steve needs help bathing.

Next week in class we will interview 'the client' and we have been given some preliminary information on the family and their wants/needs. I am working on additional questions, mostly pertaining to how Steve currently uses the kitchen, how they hope he will be able to use the kitchen and what they might think would help him. I also have questions about his Autism and what challenges in particular he faces.

Two weeks from now we will then present our products the the class so I am already looking at things like :

• Flooring - Most likely a cork or sheet vinyl as they are both softer than stone/wood and easy to clean. The benefit of cork is that it is both antimicrobial and muffled sound. The benefit of a sheet vinyl is that it will be more durable and easy to clean.
• Cabinetry - This family of 5, plus the grandmother as a day time caretaker is going to need a LOT of organization. They are Costco shoppers so storage is key.
• Counter tops - needs to be durable with a matte finish to reduce glare. Normally I'm a little anti Corian, but this may suit the Kings well. I'll be looking at other green options like recycled glass etc as well. The counter top will need a rounded edge for safety.
• Lighting - I'll be looking a a combination of task and ambient lighting, all on dimmers
• Appliances - I've mentioned a lot of the technology I am looking for (safety features, pictures as visual cues, self closing etc) now it's just a matter of finding them. I mentioned in class last night that Miele now has a chip in their Independence refrigerators that when connected to your wi-fi will give you a call on your cell phone to let you know your refrigerator door is ajar! It also diagnoses problems so that instead of an initial diagnostic service call, followed by the actual repair service call when the necessary part is in, all you need is the latter appointment. To someone who worked in the remodeling industry and often had clients waiting three weeks for dryer parts, this is pretty amazing.
• Plumbing - A single lever faucet with clearly labeled hot and cold.

More updates to come!