Andrew Vallis, Director & Head Of Architecture
Working in the field of disability property adaptations means encountering a vast range of challenges and intricate considerations on a daily basis. The sheer number of potential solutions when working with a client team to create the best possible environment can be staggering. Words and concepts that once seemed straightforward take on entirely new meanings as you begin to understand the profound impact they have on clients’ lives.
One term that immediately comes to mind is “Level Access.” Often one of the first considerations in property adaptations, its definition can vary significantly. Even the smallest misunderstanding or compromise can lead to daily complications for users – challenges that most people would never even notice.
As architects, our role is to ensure that every project meets its objectives as effectively as possible. However, there are simple yet crucial considerations that, if addressed from the outset, can make achieving a truly level threshold much more feasible.
Level thresholds shouldn’t just be about functionality – they offer an opportunity to refine design, creating spaces that are not only effortlessly usable but also aesthetically striking. As I’ve explored before, accessibility can drive architectural innovation in ways that benefit everyone. After all, why can’t true accessibility be not just practical, but stylish too?
At PLG, we are uniquely positioned to deliver exceptional results due to our seamless integration of property finding and architectural expertise. When assessing a property for level access potential, there are key factors to consider right from the start. Below are some insights to help navigate this often complex but highly rewarding feature:
- Comfort and Ease of Use
The primary driver of design should always be the end user’s needs. Working closely with the client, their family, an Occupational Therapist, and other professionals from the outset ensures clear discussions about what is truly required – and what is achievable.
- Water Ingress
Traditional thresholds are designed to keep water out, so reducing or removing them increases the risk of failure. Achieving a zero threshold means thinking beyond just the doorway itself. Solutions such as storm porches, additional drainage, and specialist materials can all play a crucial role in ensuring a watertight and effective installation.
- Construction Type
Creating a low or zero threshold is far easier in new builds, where variables can be controlled from the outset. In existing buildings, early assessment of construction type and floor structure is essential. Even a few millimetres can make the difference between a seamless transition and a significant accessibility barrier.
- External Factors
How does the external ground level relate to the internal finished floor level? Will extensive groundwork be needed to create a level approach? If ramps are required, are they in line with the client’s expectations? Is the property at the bottom of a hill, increasing flood risk? Identifying these factors early in the property selection process can prevent costly complications later.
- Material Considerations
Different materials offer different levels of flexibility when designing for level access. For example, aluminium doors are far easier to work with than composite doors when aiming for a zero threshold. Understanding these limitations early allows for better overall design integration.
Another critical point is that standard solutions outlined in Building Regulations Part M are often inadequate for clients with complex accessibility needs. While regulations state that a low threshold is acceptable if its rise is less than 15mm, in reality, even this small step can cause discomfort or a sense of instability for some users. A regulation-compliant solution might technically “work” but still fail to provide true accessibility in practice.
Ultimately, just as every individual is unique, so too are their accessibility needs. By considering these factors at the earliest stages of a project, we can not only meet expectations but create something truly individual and special – homes that are not just functional but transformative.
Andrew Vallis, Director & Head Of Architecture
PLG Consultants, 18th March 2025
