Adaptable kitchens: removable cabinet below sink + 27-inch knee clearance

Description

Adaptable kitchens shall provide a 30-inch wide clear space at the sink with the cabinet below removable, finished floor below, and knee clearance of 27 inches above the floor when accessed from a seated position. Pipes must be insulated to prevent contact burns.

Why this exists

FHA Type B adaptable kitchens allow base cabinets to be removed at occupant request for wheelchair access. Single-family kitchens designed for aging-in-place should plan for this configuration from day one.

Measurements

Categories

Applies to

• Room types: kitchen
• When:
  • aspires to visitability / universal design

Source

Solver enforcement

Browsable only — the solver does not currently enforce this directive (no spec-level data to check against). This entry exists so the architect personas can cite it in conversation and the user can read what the rule says.

Related directives

• Universal-design wider doorways · HUD UD §3.2
• Universal design features encouraged for residential accessibility under Section R320.3 · Virginia USBC 2021 Amendment 33 (IRC R320.3)
• Covered multifamily dwellings: at least one building entrance on an accessible route · HUD FHA Design Manual Requirement 1 (Chapter One)
• Public and common use areas must be readily accessible to and usable by people with disabilities · HUD FHA Design Manual Requirement 2 (Chapter Two)
• All doors must provide a clear opening of at least 32 inches when open 90 degrees · HUD FHA Design Manual Requirement 3 (Chapter Three)