GuidelineRecommended
Kitchen wheelchair turning space: 60-inch diameter circle OR T-turn
HUD FHA Design Manual Chapter Seven §7.6Description
In an adaptable kitchen, a 60-inch diameter turning circle OR a T-turn (60-inch arms with 24-inch base) must be provided in the floor space. Cabinets and appliances bordering the turning space must not be removable to maintain access in the modified configuration.
Why this exists
Wheelchair maneuvering requires either a full pivot circle or a 3-point T-turn. The choice influences kitchen layout — galley kitchens use T-turns, L/U shapes can use the full circle.
Measurements
| Property | Operator | Value | Unit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
turnCircle | min | 60 | in | Turning-circle diameter |
Categories
AccessibilityKitchen
Applies to
- Room types: kitchen
- When:
- aspires to visitability / universal design
Source
HUD (US Department of Housing and Urban Development)no manifest entry
Fair Housing Act Design Manual (1998 revised)
Section: Chapter Seven §7.6
Published 1998-08-01 · last verified 2026-05-10
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)
Last reviewed 2026-05-10.