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i
UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE AND ENGINEERING
SCHOOL OF THE ARTS AND DESIGN
BDS 413: PROJECT PAPER
INTERIOR DESIGN
KIKUYU MATERIAL CULTURE IN THE DESIGN OF AESTHETIC
INTERIORS FOR PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED PERSONS’ HOMES IN
NYERI, KENYA.
By: MURIITHI EDWIN KAIGURI
B05/1008/2012
SUPERVISOR: MR. CHEGE GITURA
Project paper submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the Bachelor of Art in
Design Degree submitted to the School of the Arts and Design, University of Nairobi.
ii
DECLARATION
This project has been submitted in partial fulfilment of the Bachelor of Arts (Design)
degree, University of Nairobi. I declare that this is my original work and has not been
presented to any other university or learning institution for any academic award.
MURIITHI EDWIN KAIGURI
Signature: ____________________ Date: _____________________
This project has been submitted for examination with our approval as the University
Supervisors.
MR. CHEGE GITURA
Signature: __________________________ Date: __________________________
The Director School of the Arts and Design, University of Nairobi.
MR. MURIITHI KINYUA
Signature: __________________________ Date: __________________________
iii
DEDICATION
I thank the Almighty for the gift of the family that raised me. The values and virtues of
love, honesty, hard work, love and determination that they have instilled in me. These
and other values have been my guiding light throughout my life. I dedicate this paper to
them for their continuous motivation and support.
iv
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Although it would be impossible to mention them individually, it would similarly be
inconceivable not to extend personal appreciation to the team that has collaborated with
me in this exciting yet challenging process of compiling this project paper for their
enormous assistance.
In the course of writing this project paper, I benefited from input, critique and support
from my supervisors. They gave me guidelines on how to carry out a good research other
important details to achieving completion of this work.
I would like to express passionate gratitude to the University of Nairobi, school of the
arts and design for providing a conducive learning atmosphere also to Mr. Bernard
Karemeri for allowing me to carry out my research. I am grateful to my lecturers Dr.
Lilac Osanjo, Mr. Muriithi Kinyua, Mr. Munene and to my colleagues in the class of
2012-2016 for the enriching and intellectual interactions in the process of discussions on
various components, challenges and new approaches to Interior Design.
My family and friends endured the absence and imperfect attention during the years of
my study. Their sustained overflow of love, and practical encouragement spurred me
across the overwhelming challenges of this academic quest.
v
Table of Contents
CHAPTER ONE ................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................... 1
1.2 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY ......................................................................... 1
1.3 PROBLEM STATEMENT ....................................................................................... 2
1.4 OBJECTIVES ........................................................................................................... 3
1.4.1 Main objective .................................................................................................... 3
1.4.2 Specific objectives: ............................................................................................. 3
1.5 RESEARCH QUESTIONS ....................................................................................... 3
1.6 SIGNIFICANCE ....................................................................................................... 3
1.7 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY ............................................................................ 3
1.8 THE SCOPE OF THE STUDY ................................................................................ 4
1.8.1 Geographical ....................................................................................................... 4
1.8.2 Content................................................................................................................ 4
1.8.3 Design philosophy .............................................................................................. 4
1.9 CONCLUSION AND SUMMARY .......................................................................... 5
CHAPTER TWO ................................................................................................................ 6
LITERATURE REVIEW ................................................................................................... 6
2.1 INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................... 6
2.2 REVIEW OF THEORETICAL LITERATURE ....................................................... 6
2.2.1 Universality of Built Environments .................................................................... 6
2.2.2 Designing for the elderly .................................................................................. 12
2.2.3 User’s Culture ................................................................................................... 14
2.2.4 The Kikuyu People ........................................................................................... 15
2.2.5 Kikuyu material culture .................................................................................... 17
vi
2.2.6 The Kikuyu homestead and Architecture ......................................................... 18
2.2.7 Exemplars ......................................................................................................... 21
2.3 CONCLUSION ....................................................................................................... 23
CHAPTER THREE .......................................................................................................... 24
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY...................................................................................... 24
3.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 24
3.2 RESEARCH DESIGN ............................................................................................ 24
3.3 TARGET POPULATION ....................................................................................... 25
3.4 SAMPLE POPULATION ....................................................................................... 25
3.5 DATA COLLECTION METHODS ....................................................................... 26
3.5.1 Interviews ......................................................................................................... 26
3.5.2 Observations ..................................................................................................... 27
3.5.3 Questionnaires .................................................................................................. 27
3.5.4 Multi-media ...................................................................................................... 27
3.5.5 Document research ........................................................................................... 27
3.5.6 Case Studies ...................................................................................................... 27
3.5.7 Triangulation .................................................................................................... 27
3.6 DATA ANALYSIS ................................................................................................. 27
3.6.1 Multi- media ..................................................................................................... 27
3.6.2 Graphs ............................................................................................................... 28
3.6.3 Pie charts........................................................................................................... 28
3.7 DATA PRESENTATION ....................................................................................... 28
3.7.1 Tables................................................................................................................ 28
3.7.2 Texts ................................................................................................................. 28
3.7.3 Quotations ......................................................................................................... 28
vii
3.8 CONCLUSION ....................................................................................................... 28
CHAPTER FOUR ............................................................................................................. 29
SITE ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF FINDINGS ....................................... 29
4.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 29
4.2 QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS ................................................................................. 29
4.2.1 Landscaping ...................................................................................................... 29
4.2.2 Interiors ............................................................................................................. 34
4.2.3 Furniture ........................................................................................................... 37
4.2.4 Exhibition and Display ..................................................................................... 37
4.3 QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS .............................................................................. 38
4.4 PRESENTATION OF FINDINGS ......................................................................... 40
4.5 CONCLUSION ....................................................................................................... 42
CHAPTER FIVE .............................................................................................................. 43
SUMMARY FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ................. 43
5.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 43
5.2 SUMMARY OF DATA ANALYSIS ..................................................................... 43
5.3 RECOMMENDATIONS ........................................................................................ 44
5.4 CONCLUSION ....................................................................................................... 47
5.5 SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER STUDY ........................................................... 47
REFERENCES ................................................................................................................. 48
Research strategy and schedule diagram ....................................................................... 50
Questionnaire guide....................................................................................................... 50
Observation guide ......................................................................................................... 51
Questionnaire ................................................................................................................ 52
viii
ABSTRACT
This study seeks to investigate how accessible a physically challenged person’s house in
Nyeri is. The main objective of this study is to search for guidelines for non-ambulant
(chair bound), semi-ambulant (lower limb impairments), visual, and hearing disabled
persons in residential homes. In addition, this project aims to incorporate the user’s
culture which is the Kikuyu culture into the design of this home. To get answers for this
objective, a content analysis of major documents containing information on Universal
design, the user’s culture and the Kikuyu Culture will be contacted.
This study will utilize a case study research design as it focuses on a single entity, Mr.
Bernard’s home. In-depth interviews, observations and consultations will be done. Based
on the research finding the study will make conclusions and give recommendations. Data
analyzed presentation will be done using various tools including tables, text, graphs and
pie charts. The findings and recommendations that point towards achieving study
objectives as well as benefit various stakeholders in the established homes for the elderly
and residential homeowners.
ix
LIST OF TABLES
Table3.1: Target Population Sample............................................................................................. 26
Table 4.1: Different design styles the home owners prefer their homes to incorporate ............... 38
Table 4.2: Maneuverability scale at Mr. Bernard’s home. ........................................................... 39
x
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1.1: Mr. Bernard's house
Figure 2.1: Sitting and knee space measurement
Figure 2.2: Standard ramp details
Figure 2.3: Bathroom cubicle for ambulant disabled person
Figure 2.4: Plan of a toilet cubicle for ambulant disabled
Figure 2.5: Illustration of an ambulant disabled person using a kitchen counter
Figure 2.6: The migration routes of Mt. Kenya people
Figure 2.7: Kikuyu woman carrying a banana while making a kiondo
Figure 2.8: Items found in a Kikuyu home
Figure 2.9: Examples of Kikuyu traditional stools Figure 2.10: Kikuyu homestead
Figure 2.11: Section through Kikuyu Nyumba showing the changes in levels
Figure 2.12: Internal layout of the Nyumba
Figure 2.13: Plan of the improved Nyumba
Figure 2.14: Proposals of changes in housing layout and form
Figure 2.15: Kikuyu traditional huts at the Bomas of Kenya
Figure 2.16: Ngugi wa Thiong’o house in Limuru
Figure 4.1: Mr. Bernard’s drive way and gate
Figure 4.2: Front yard view 1
Figure 4.3 Front yard view 2
Figure 4.4: Front view of the house
Figure 4.5: Gravel on the ground
Figure 4.6: Lawn in front of the house
Figure 4.7: The hedge surrounding the lawn in front of the house
Figure 4.8: Staircase to the zero-grazing unit
Figure 4.9: Lawn, alternative entrance to the zero-grazing unit
xi
Figure 4.10: Path to the backyard
Figure 4.11: Backyard view
Figure 4.12: Pit latrine and bathroom
Figure 4.13: Hedged path to washrooms
Figure 4.14: Living room view 1
Figure 4.15: Living room view 2
Figure 4.16: Bathroom and toilet entrance
Figure 4.17: Bathroom
Figure 4.18 Toilet
Figure 4.19: Adjoining corridor
Figure 4.20 Kitchen view 1
Figure 4.21: Kitchen view 2
Figure 4.22: Sofa sets, tables and stools
Figure 4.23: Dining table
Figure 4.24: Wall unit
Figure 4.25: Kitchen cabinetry
Figure 4.26: Individual ratio of design style preference
Figure 4.27: Overall ratio of style by home owners
Figure 4.28: Ease in maneuverability chart
Figure 5.1: Outdoor tiles
Figure 5.2: Emerald Kikuyu grass
Figure 5.3: Ramp illustration
Figure 5.4: Wheelchair accessible door
Figure 5.5: An illustration of the required clear floor and knee space
Figure 5.6: Recommended bathroom illustration
xii
Figure 5.7: Recommended toilet illustration
Figure 5.8: Wheelchair accessible kitchen sink
xiii
LIST OF ACRONYMS/ ABBREVIATIONS
ADA- American with Disabilities Act
UD- Universal Design
PWD- People living With Disabilities
AARP- A membership organization leading positive social change and delivering value to
people age fifty and above.
RNA- Ribonucleic acid (a polymetric molecule implicated in various biological roles in coding,
decoding, regulation and express of genes).
PhD- Doctor of Philosophy
xiv
OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS
Universal Design- design meant to cater for everybody regardless of their age or physical
abilities.
Maneuverability- a combination of movements
Barrier free design- design that allows proper and safe access to buildings and facilities.
Landscaping- the activity that modifies the visible features of an area of land including living
elements, landforms, terrain shape and lighting.
Non-ambulant- unable to walk.
Semi-ambulant- able to walk with assistance for example in clutches.
Design ethnography- the study of people’s cultural phenomena to allow for designing that best
suits them.
Mucii- kikuyu homestead
Nyumba- a house with a man and a wife
Thingira- the kikuyu man’s hut
Nyungu- kikuyu pot
Kiondo- the kikuyu basket used to carry all manner of items by wome
1
CHAPTER ONE
1.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter will focus on an overview of the whole concept paper. The geographical
location of the site, its content and design philosophy will be discussed. The statement of
the problem, the objectives and research questions will also be listed and discussed in this
chapter.
1.2 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
People not only live longer today, they generally are healthier at advanced ages than were
previous birth cohorts. “Old age” disabilities that plagued the young-old of the 20th
century are now being put off to older ages where they affect the old-old and oldest-old
of the 21st; this is similar to how age-related disabilities of the 19th century were pushed
to older ages during the 20th century (Crews, 2003).
How well these elders live and their abilities to maintain independent life styles will
depend on their health and the degree to which they have remained able as opposed to
frail and disabled. This in turn, will depend to at least some extent on how well the
artificial and built environments in which they live conform to their needs and their age-
related losses in abilities and somatic integrity. General declines and alterations in motor
coordination, spatial perception, visual and auditory acuity, gait, muscle and bone
strength, mobility, and sensory perceptions of environmental stimuli (heat and cold) are
well documented after age 65 (Arking, 2005; Beall, 1994; Crews, 2003, 2005; Harper and
Crews, 2000).
Despite the increased attention to the relationship of disability and design, this area still
suffers from terminological confusion, oversimplification and a positivist bias that
continues to produce ableist space. A shift towards disability as culture is necessary to
move our understanding of how to design for those with disabilities out of the objective
realm (prescriptive codes and guidelines) and into a subjective realm (the lived
experience and embodied know-how of those with disabilities). By framing disability
around a cultural model rather than a medical model it allows for epistemological and
2
pedagogical shifts in our ways of knowing in interior design. In defining culture as “a
way of life” it is important to look at disability as both a diverse way of living and a
diverse way of knowing. Most significant, is that the everyday expertise of people with
disabilities is recognized as knowledge that can inform the field of interior design. The
urgency for defining disability culture is essential to our understanding of cultural
competence in interior design education and practice.
In this study, the user of the residential house has problems in accessing various interior
spaces due to his physical disability which has seen him bound to a wheel chair most of
the time. He always needs someone to help him out in everyday activities in and around
the house. The aim of this research is to look for solutions to the challenges that come
about due to his disabled state. In addition, this paper will give directions and
recommendations on how to incorporate his culture into the design of his home. This will
be done using the Kikuyu material culture which he is conversant with.
1.3 PROBLEM STATEMENT
Buildings are about people and people with disabilities represent the interests of all
people, both those with disabilities and those that currently do not have disabilities.
People with disabilities are not a special interest group. Although some people are
disabled for their entire lives, every one of us is functionally disabled at some point in our
lives. We all start life as infants in push-chairs, many of us have disabling accidents or
illnesses during our life and most of us live long enough to eventually experience
disability through age-related impairments and infirmities. People with disabilities
therefore provide an anthropometric base of minimum required detail that represents all
building users and all building consumers. People with disabilities are forced to “go the
extra mile” both figuratively and literally in terms of their building use. They therefore
become marginalized as visitors and often forced to become dependent on other building
users.
The main question that everybody asks is where he/ she will be living during old age.
Many houses are not build to accommodate old people comfortably to make them
independent as they do not employ Universal Design principles which are meant to cater
3
for various disabilities with which old age comes along with. In addition, most cultures
are lost in modern Architecture leading to their erosion.
1.4 OBJECTIVES
1.4.1 Main objective
The primary objective of this study is to search for guidelines for non-ambulant (chair
bound), semi-ambulant (lower limb impairments), visual, and hearing disabled persons in
residential homes.
1.4.2 Specific objectives:
To study the interior design of the residential house.
To establish the environmental causes of immobility in and out of the house.
To determine the accessibility of furniture and other structures.
To determine whether Universal Design principles have been used in the construction
of the home.
1.5 RESEARCH QUESTIONS
How functional and appealing are the interiors of the residential house?
Which are the environmental causes of immobility in and out of the house?
How accessible are the indoor and outdoor furniture and structures?
Have Universal Design principles been used in the construction of the house?
1.6 SIGNIFICANCE
The presentation of this material will elicit considerable interest not just in Interior
Design but even in other fields.
The information provided in this study can be used as reference by other researchers.
1.7 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY
The findings of this study and their viability are limited by the fact that they deal with a
single culture and interior designers today are catering for a broad multicultural
population.
There are limited resources when it comes to finances and time to do a comprehensive
study of the four areas of interior design: furniture, exhibition and display, interiors and
landscaping.
4
1.8 THE SCOPE OF THE STUDY
This is a case study on Mr. Bernard’s residential home in Nyeri. It is a recently
constructed house sitting on a one-acre piece of land where he lives with his wife and is
occasionally visited by grandchildren.
Modern Architecture and materials have been used in its construction style. However,
there are shortcomings when it comes to the user of the house as he is partially disabled
due to his old age.
Universal Design principles have not been used
properly therefore difficulties come in in terms of
independent accessibility and mobility of the
user. The choice of this study came up after an
interest to make a traditional culture blend into
modernity. This was the perfect site where the
culture of interest is right there with the target
users.
1.8.1 Geographical
The site is located near Mutaga shopping Centre, Mathira West Location in Nyeri
County.
1.8.2 Content
A physically handicapped elderly person’s residential home in Nyeri County.
1.8.3 Design philosophy
The interest here is to study the site and come up with solutions for various challenges
that hinder the environment from being a “barrier free environment’. The area of study
being focused on is the whole homestead and how functional it is to its owner who is an
old Kikuyu man with various disabilities. The aim is to create an environment for him
which is aesthetic and he can relate to in terms of his cultural background through
Figure 2.1: Mr. Bernard's house
(Author, 2015)
Figure 3.1: Mr. Bernard's house
(Author, 2015)
5
Kikuyu material culture therefore making his environment functional in terms of
accessibility, safety and style.
1.9 CONCLUSION AND SUMMARY
Through the formulated research questions, the researcher found out that Universal
Design principles have not been employed in the residential home. It was also found out
that there was a lack of focus on aesthetics as the house is built using normal standards
which hinder pushing innovation and creativity to the edge. This information will be
discussed more in chapter four.
6
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter seeks to give information of some of the work done by various scholars on
universality of built environments, the user’s culture, designing for the elderly and
Kikuyu traditional material culture.
2.2 REVIEW OF THEORETICAL LITERATURE
2.2.1 Universality of Built Environments
Built environment professionals should design houses that allow aging in place or
develop solutions that can be employed to already built houses to make them user
friendly as the owners age (Catinella, 1999). A study done in May 2000 revealed that
82% of those 45 years and older would prefer to stay in their present homes. Only 9%
preferred to move to a nursing home and 4% wanted to move to a relative’s home
(Benedict, 2001). The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society reports that 30% of the
people living in the United States would rather die than move into a nursing home. This
shows that there is a strong sentiment for wanting to stay in a familiar home as a person
ages (Olson, 1998).
Most people prefer to change their way of living rather than change their environment.
Wylde stated, “Falling in the bathroom, straining in the kitchen, tripping on the front
steps; all are signs there’s something wrong with the house, not with the person who lives
there.” (Harvey, 1996).
Many are the times that aging people are forced to give up their homes because the cost
of the necessary modifications is too high. This may be the case if these solutions were
not included during the construction phase of the house. Housing has never been
designed to accommodate all the differences in individuals. The house can become an
obstacle if a disability occurs rather than being a comfortable place to live in. (Null and
Cherry, 1998).
Universal design implies that houses where individuals live and the products they come
into contact with are made in a way that accommodates everybody despite their physical
7
abilities and not only disabled or elderly persons. Incorporation of universal design
features into the everyday living environment makes living easier for everyone in the
house presently and in the future (Berger, 2002). Listed below are the seven principles of
universal design as developed by the Centre for Universal Design in 1997 at North
Carolina State University’s School of Design:
1. Equitable use: the design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.
2. Flexibility in use: the design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences
and abilities.
3. Simple and intuitive use: use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the
user’s experience, knowledge, language skill, or current concentration level.
4. Perceptible information: the design communicates necessary information effectives to
the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities.
5. Tolerance for error: the design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of
accidental or unintended actions.
6. Low physical effort: the design can be used efficiently, comfortably and with a
minimum of fatigue.
7. Size and space for approach and use: appropriate size and space is provided for
approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user’s body size, posture or
mobility.
Universal design principles and technological advances in building construction create
safer home environments, more user-friendly spaces, and spaces that are well adapted to
everyday living for people of all abilities.
Disability and design communities are both factors found in the roots of Universal
design. Trachtmen et al. (1999) indicate that the disabled hope that a nationwide
embracing of universal design will provide better products for them, while designers are
seeking a venue for achieving good design. Universal design becomes so attractive
because it is a concept or a philosophy and not an enforceable code. Designers are
therefore able to meet the needs of the users in a flexible manner. Universal design differs
from accessible design in that it provides permanent, attractive features that everyone
would find acceptable in their home (Null, 2001). In most cases, products or
8
environments that are universally designed go beyond the minimal requirements of
accessibility (Trachtmen et al., 1999).
2.2.1.1 Doors
There should be a clear space on both the inside and outside of an entrance door to enable
people to manoeuvre and swing the door open. Greater space is required on the pull-side
of swing-doors to enable a person to pull the door open and to manoeuvre clear of the
door swing. The clear opening width of entrance doors to new buildings should be
1000mm and at least 900mm for existing buildings (although 1000mm is preferred
wherever practical). The effective clear width should be measured from the face of the
door in the open position to the door stop on the opposite frame, taking into account any
projecting door handles
The minimum clear opening of doorways should be 900mm measured between the face
of the door and the face of the door stop with the door open at 90°.
Maneuvering space at doors wheelchair maneuvering spaces should be free of any
obstructions and be provided on the side of the door handle in the following manner: on
the pull side, a minimum space of 600 mm on the push side, a minimum space of 300
mm, or two-way swing door, a minimum space of 300 mm.
Door Handles have the following characteristics recommended: push-pull mechanisms
that require no grasping, lever handles to be preferred on latched doors, it is safer to use
U-shaped handles as they reduce the risk of catching on clothing, or injuring from the
exposed lever end.
2.2.1.2 Grab bars
Grab bars are extremely important features and must be designed to be easy to grasp and
to provide a firm and comfortable grip so that the hand can slide along the rail without
obstruction. Many PWD rely upon handrails/ grab bars to maintain balance or prevent
serious falls. Handrails may be provided with Braille/ tactile markings at the beginning
and the end to give information to people with visual impairment.
9
Grab bars or handrails should have the following features: slip-resistant with round ends,
have a circular section of 30-45mm in diameter, be free of any sharp or abrasive elements
and have continuous gripping surfaces, without interruptions.
2.2.1.3 Seating and placing surfaces
Seating space, such as those provided at counters, tables, or work surfaces for persons in
wheelchairs should have a dear and level floor space of not less than 900 mm x 1200 mm.
Where a forward approach is used, a clear knee space of at least 900 mm wide, 480 mm
deep and 750 mm high should be provided, which may overlap the clear floor space by a
maximum of 480 mm.
Writing surfaces or service counters should
not be more than 800 mm from the floor.
Counter tops should be between 750mm and
800mm from the floor and have a minimum
dear knee space of 750mm. The depth of the
counter top should be not less than 480mm.
2.2.1.4 Slope ramps
Ramps allow persons in wheelchair to move from one level to another. However, many
ambulant persons with disabilities negotiate steps more easily and safely. Hence it is
preferable to provide accessibility by both steps and ramps. To the ramp approach should
be provided for people with ambulatory disabilities.
Surfaces of slope ramps should be designed to prevent water from stagnating on the
walking surfaces. Ramps should also have a level landing at the top and bottom of each
run and also where the run changes direction.
Figure 2.1: Sitting and knee space measurement (Planning a Barrier Free
Environment, 2001)
Figure 4 Figure 2.1: Sitting and knee space measurement (Planning a Barrier Free Environment, 2001)
10
Handrails that are on both the sides should be
provided for a ramp run with a vertical rise greater
than 150 mm and should be placed at a height of
between 800 mm and 900 mm above the floor
level, extend horizontally for a distance of not less
than 300 mm beyond the top and bottom of the
ramp.
2.2.1.5 Washrooms
Where an individual washroom for the wheelchair user is provided, it should have
minimum internal dimensions of 1750 mm x 1750 mm, have dear space of not less than
900 mm wide next to the water closet, have the toilet roll dispenser mounted below the
grab bars and at not more than 300 mm from the front edge of the seat and at a height
between 50 mm and 250 mm from the top of the water closet seat.
It should be equipped with a doth hook mounted
on a side wall not more than 1300 mm from the
floor and projecting not more than 40 mm from
the wall and where possible, be equipped with a
shelf of dimensions 400 mm x 200 mm fixed at a
height of between 900 mm and 1100 mm from
the floor.
It should also have grab bars on both the sides of the cubicle to act as handhold for the
person with ambulatory disability to stand.
Figure 2.2: Standard ramp details (Planning a Barrier Free
Environment, 2001)
Figure 5Figure 2.2: Standard ramp details (Planning a Barrier Free Environment, 2001)
Figure 2.3: Bathroom cubicle for ambulant disabled person
(Planning a Barrier Free Environment, 2001)
Figure 6Figure 2.3: Bathroom cubicle for ambulant disabled person (Planning a Barrier Free Environment, 2001)
11
The toilet cubicle for person with
ambulatory disability is not suitable for the
wheelchair user unless the grab bar on the
transfer side is a swing-up or swing-away
type.
2.2.1.6 Furniture arrangement
Sufficient room should be made available for maneuvering a wheelchair (at least 1500
mm turning radius) or ambulating with an assistive device such as a walking frame or a
white cane. Clear passage should be allowed from one room to the next and unrestricted
access be provided to electrical outlets, telephones and wall switches. A clear floor space
for the wheelchair, of at least 900 mm x 1200 mm, should be provided in front of all the
utilities and furniture.
2.2.1.7 Bedroom area
The bedroom should be planned to provide a 1500 mm turning in space for wheelchair, at
least near all the doors. There should be a door floor space of at least 900 mm x 1200 mm
in front of all the furniture. The bed for a wheelchair user should have a height of 500
mm from the floor surface, be stable-stability may be improved by placing the bed
against a wall or in the corner of the room (except for when the wheelchair user plans to
make the bed) and be positioned to provide at least a 1500 mm turning in space at the
transfer side. A bedside table or cabinet between 450 mm and 900mm from the floor may
be useful to hold a lamp, a telephone, necessary medications and a call bell if assistance
is needed.
2.2.1.8 Living room
At least 1500 mm turning in space for wheelchair should be provided near all entry points
to the living room. A living-dining combination is preferable to a kitchen-dining
Figure 2.4: Plan of a toilet cubicle for ambulant disabled
(Planning a Barrier Free Environment, 2001)
Figure 2.7: Kikuyu woman carrying a banana while
making a kiondo (Rigamonti, 2001)Figure 7Figure 2.4: Plan of a toilet
cubicle for ambulant disabled (Planning a Barrier Free Environment, 2001)
12
combination (except when the wheelchair user does the cooking). The seating space for a
wheelchair user at the dining table should provide a clear knee space. The dear knee
space for a wheelchair user is at least 900 mm wide, 480 mm deep and 750 mm high.
There should be a clear floor space for the wheelchair of at least 900 mm x 1200 mm in
front of all the fixtures. Chair seat heights should not be less than 500 mm.
2.2.1.9 Kitchen
In the kitchen, the wheelchair turning radius of at least 1500 mm should be provided
between the counter and the opposite walls. The floor surface should allow for easy
wheelchair maneuverability.
Counter tops should be between 750 mm and 800 mm in
height and provide for clear knee space for a wheelchair user.
The clear knee space for a wheelchair user is at least 900 mm
wide, 480 mm deep and 750 mm high. Counter tops/ slabs
should have rounded edge. All surfaces should be smooth to
facilitate sliding of heavy items from one area to another and slide-out working spaces
are useful in providing an over-the-lap working surface. For people with ambulatory
disabilities, stools (preferably with back and foot rests) should be provided strategically
at the main work area(s). Shelves and storage spaces should be between 300 mm and
1200 mm height from the floor surface. Any exposed hot-water pipes under the sink
should be insulated to avoid burns.
2.2.2 Designing for the elderly
Elders frequently are defined as persons aged 65 years and over (Crews, 2005; Susman
and Riley, 1985). For health care and research purposes these elders often are subdivided
into the young-old (65–74 years), the old-old (75–84 years), and the oldest-old (85)
(Susman and Riley, 1985). The number of elders in each category is increasing
throughout the world, and these elders also are surviving longer than ever before in
human history (Harper and Crews, 2000). Nations such as Japan, Sweden, Great Britain,
Figure 2.5: Illustration of an ambulant disabled person using a
kitchen counter (Planning a Barrier Free Environment, 2001)
Figure 8Figure 2.5: Illustration of an ambulant disabled person using a kitchen counter (Planning a Barrier Free Environment, 2001)
13
the USA, and Norway now are approaching or already have over 15% of their population
aged 65 years (Crews, 2005). Growing numbers of older citizens worldwide are placing
new stresses on their families, communities, and countries, including increased needs for
health care, in-home care-giving, and appropriate housing. As noted elsewhere, most
elders are neither frail nor incapable of independent living (Crews, 2003, 2005; Harper
and Crews, 2000).
Research on the health, well-being, and life expectancy of increasingly older elders has
become an issue due to the rapid increase in elders during recent decades. Designs
interior and exterior built spaces that enhance the well-being and activities of elders in
their own homes has been one of the latest activities to research on in recent years.
Elders need spaces conducive to their activity patterns and declining sensory perceptions.
There should be an urge to improve the functional abilities of many seniors by having the
environment accommodate to them rather than the individual accommodating to the
environment. This should be done by proper design with fewer physical barriers and
more attention to the needs of elders (Lawton, 1980). Lawton and Simon in 1968
formulated the “environmental docility hypothesis” based upon observed patterns of
frailty and disability among elders. They observed that the less competent an individual
becomes, the more influential the environment is on limiting that person’s capabilities.
Lawton suggests it is necessary to design environments so as to enhance opportunities for
independence and self-reliance so as to improve the capabilities and well-being of elders.
The physical and mental wellbeing of elders may be improved by multiple design
features. Among these are what have come to be known as features of Universal Design
(Null and Cherry, 1996; Zavotka and Teaford, 2004).
Accessible design is primarily about court-enforced compliance with regulations. The
regulations are intended to eliminate certain physical barriers that limit the usability of
environments for people with disabilities. Accessible design has focused on compliance
with building codes. Accessible design has focused more recently on satisfying these
minimum technical criteria to allow most people with disabilities to use most of the
designed environment (Salmen, 1996). Universal design is a market-driven process
intended to create environments that are usable by all people. While considerations for
14
people with disabilities are certainly necessary for universal design, they are not
sufficient when planning and designing for the whole population. Accommodating the
needs and wishes of everyone – e.g., children, the elderly, women and men – is also
necessary for universal design (Norwegian State Council on Disability, 1997).
There are two important needs for future research for an ageing population. First is to
develop consistent and cross-culturally valid methods for assessing frailty associated with
senescent change. Second is how to design environments appropriate for the proportion
of elders who are increasingly frail and disabled but whose survival continues to improve
(Amdam, 2005; Carey and Papadopoulos, 2005; Murphy, 2005).
Mostly, modifications to homes are done for ease of living in the home and for safety.
Such modifications include installing grab bars in the bathroom, installing better lighting
for diminished vision, placing handrails in strategic places and replacing hard-to-grasp
faucets and doorknobs with lever handles (Harvey, 1996). Others that are of importance
could be gently graded walkways, height adjustable closet bars, wider doors and
hallways, handheld showerheads, and cabinets with pullout shelves. These options could
be added unobtrusively either during new construction or in a renovation project (Berger,
2002).
2.2.3 User’s Culture
Often, “culture” is considered as an external factor tied to notions of globalism,
nationalism, and the creation of sustainable perspectives on the social and economic
systems that provide the context for contemporary interior design practice.
It requires the designer to comprehend his or her client’s culture so as to understand
exactly what he or she is designing. It is not a matter of just developing a program. There
is increased attention in the literature on design ethnography, the practice of living in
midst of client/user cultures for purposes of clarifying client/user needs by means of
“thick description” (Geertz, 1973). As defined by Groat and Wang, logical argumentation
takes “a set of previously disparate factors, or previously unknown and/or unappreciated
factors, and interconnects them into unified frameworks that have significant explanatory
power.” (Groat and Wang, 2013, 387). The notion that design influences culture and vice
versus is now long accepted. However, we still muse over the nature of their relationship.
15
Cultures develop as a result of processes of internal programming through which values
are formed and behaviors are created subconsciously and shared within groups (Hofstede,
1997). This suggests that by taking a closer look at design as a culture, much can be
learned about design in relationship to culture by understanding culture’s significance as
an influence on factors such as establishment of world views, the nature of interactions,
and the framing of self-identity.
Many design decisions are based on cultural interpretations. Csikszentmihalyi &
Rochberg-Halton in 1981 established that individuals attach personal cultural meaning to
the objects that adorn their family spaces. The relationships of systems are which
dependent on the user and the various people, places, and experiences that define one’s
worldview give the importance of meaning in context according to Bronfenbrenner’s
ecological model of 1979. Belsky in 1995 expanded Bronfenbrenner’s model to include
the impact of history on systems. As the acquisition and implementation of new
technology increases, the rates of cultural change and meanings are directly proportional.
Both exterior and interior building materials have primarily been chosen with local
conditions and limitations in mind according to human history. Designers tended to use
materials that were available and plentiful in their location and thus uniquely
representative of their environment (Bell, 2006, p. 9) “Materiality spoke more to place, to
locale, and in a way was more purely definitive as to what a building should look like.”
(Bell, p. 9) In this way material selections became connected not only to their setting but
also to the culture and traditions of the local population.
2.2.4 The Kikuyu People
They are Kenya’s single largest tribe and totaling to about six and a half million. Twenty
percent of the national population. They are said to be the most ‘westernized’ but despite
this fact, their sense of cultural identity has remained very strong. At adapting to Kenya's
new economic, social and political realities the Kikuyu have also been the most
successful. They own the majority of the nation's businesses and they are easily Kenya's
wealthiest people.
The Kikuyu are a Bantu race and their migration movements and subsequent settlement
in Kikuyuland is documented as part of the wider Bantu migrations into East Africa from
Central Africa but historians are still sketchy on actual origins (Kamenju, 2012).
16
They entered into the Kikuyuland plateau from the South East and following the course
of the river Tana near current Sagana and proceeding up the now Sagana river up to a
point in Gaturi, Muranga called Mukurwe wa Nyagathanga.
Mukure wa Nyagathanga is considered the central point of dispersal of the Kikuyu into
the rest of the Plateau. The various moving groups of settlers occupied the ranges of the
rivers as they moved further North or South of the Central dispersal point. The ones who
moved to the South came to the area of Kabete. They settled here because the area more
to the South was settled by the Kaputie Maasai. The settlement to the North reached as
far as Nyeri plains. To the South East beyond the Ol Donyo Sabuk, were the beginnings
of the dry poor agricultural plains where the Kamba inhabited. The Kikuyu did not seem
to have settled beyond Thika in this direction by the time the Huxleys were moving there
in the early 1900’s (Muriuki, 1974). The settlements did not happen at once but seem to
have come in several waves and from quite different sources (Were, 1984).
The Plateau was forested with
Equatorial forest from both the
Aberdares Range and Mt.
Kenya that thinned as the land
sloped to the South East plains.
The original occupants of this
forest were the Athi and the
Gumba according to Muriuki. The Athi who occupied the forest were the first group who
were originally hunters and from whom the Kikuyu negotiated farming rights in the
forest. The second group was the Gumba who seems to have been assimilated. They were
the hunter gatherer type. The Kikuyu had settled into the area as three groupings, the
Northern Kikuyu, Gaki, now Nyeri sharing Ruarai river with the middle group Metumi,
now Muranga who shared the Thika river (Chania) as a ritual marker with the Southern
Kikuyu, Kabete, now Kiambu. This had happened by the 17th century.
Figure 2.6: The migration routes of Mt. Kenya
people (Muriuki, 1974)
17
2.2.5 Kikuyu material culture
The Kikuyu had many professions like potters, blacksmiths who produced the iron tools
like spears, machetes, jewelry, and all manner of thing like cow bells, music jiggles and
many other products. Pottery, however, was the main profession (Gathigira, 1934). Some
of the homestead items included: Njuri (small pot), Nyungu ya Irio (cooking pot),
Ndigithu (water pot), Nyungu ya Ucuru (porridge pot), Gititi (small tray), Gitaruru
(Tray), Kiondo and Nyamikwa (carrying bags) Ruenji (shaver) and Gitete (milk gourd).
Women could make a basket, kiondo as they walked, or sat
or waited for the food to cook etc. They ranged in size from
handbags to huge sack like bags, nyamikwa for carrying
things from the farm to the house and for going to the
market. The kiondo was made from the back of the mugiyo,
(Triumfetta tomentosa). It had to be chewed first and then
made into thin strings by rolling two strands between the
palm and the thigh, the same method used to make the thin corded hair pieces in modern
world. Tough baskets that could withstand a lot of weight were made from it. After the
introduction of the sisal plant in the Twentieth Century by the British, it quickly replaced
the mugiyo. Its strands were extracted in a less cumbersome method and could take
coloring better.
Colours were made from different leaves and barks
of certain trees and the strap made from the hide of a
cow
Figure 2.7: Kikuyu woman carrying a banana while making a kiondo
(Rigamonti, 2001)
Figure 2.8: Items found in a Kikuyu home (Kago, 1954)Figure 2.7: Kikuyu
woman carrying a banana while making a kiondo (Rigamonti, 2001)
Figure 2.8: Items found in a Kikuyu home (Kago, 1954)
Figure 2.13: Plan of the improved Nyumba (Kamenju,
2010)Figure 2.8: Items found in a Kikuyu home (Kago, 1954)
18
The tray, gitaruru, is a great relative of the kiondo which was used for all manner of
things. It is used as a tray of food during preparation and also as a tray for the food after
preparation. It was also used for winnowing. It was made from thin stripes of the stem of
the mugiyo which were held tightly into a spiral by the bark of the same mugiyo.
Sizes varied according to need and some were as
small as 6 inches in diameter. The gitaruru proper
was about two feet in diameter and was smeared
with cow dung on both sides. A small one was
called a gatiti or gititi (Kamenju, 2012).
The Kikuyu made a clear distinction between the woman’s four-legged Giturua, that was
used in the Nyumba and the man’s Njung’ua, a three or four-legged smaller affair which
could be carried about by the man. The four legged traditional Kikuyu stool was inspired
by the sky, matui-ini, which was the dome supported by the four sacred mountains. This
Kikuyu cosmology of the circle on a square impacted heavily on their conception and
development of space (Kamenju, 2012).
2.2.6 The Kikuyu homestead and Architecture
Mucii literally translates as “Home” among the Kikuyu.
Therefore, homestead is then the proper description of
this organizational unit as is understood among the
Kikuyu. In a typical Kikuyu homestead, the wives and
the children and the father lived in a single compound.
The homestead was a large open space with several houses, a big courtyard surrounded
by a fence and a gate. The father’s hut was called a thingira which was a large round
room constructed of mud and thatched at the roof. It was at this hut that the man ate, slept
and welcomed guests before giving then permission to proceed to the homestead.
Figure 2.9: Examples of Kikuyu traditional stools (Beecher, 1950:16 & Cagnolo,
1933)
Figure 2.10: Kikuyu homestead (Routredge, 1910)
19
“Each of my father’s wives had her own house, called a nyumba, similarly constructed
but with several compartments. This was the realm of the woman, the children, and
female visitors and relatives” (Wangari Maathai, 2006).
Kamenju in his thesis on Transformation of Kikuyu Traditional Architecture, 2012 raises
a point that the English word ‘house’ to the Kikuyu mind refers to any building, but
‘house’, nyumba, in the context of a Kikuyu home is “that which was built for a specific
married woman as no two married women ever shared a house.” The man’s habitation is
a thingira and is properly what the word ‘hut’ conjures and it is improper to refer to the
woman’s house as ‘the woman’s hut’ as it is not properly a hut. To get out of the
quandary, the woman’s house can be referred always in the way it is understood in the
Kikuyu mind, Nyumba, as a proper capitalized name in order to differentiate it from a
generic nyumba, ‘building’. Gathigira also raises an important point in Kikuyu
architecture that needs clarification in order to navigate between the terms, house and
home. He uses the term mucii, home for the homestead and the term nyumba, which in its
proper translation within the home means the specific house of the woman. He suggests
that only in the existence of a Nyumba does a homestead become a home, mucii. The
man’s hut however is a thingira, a house which nevertheless is never a home in the
absence of a woman. In fact, it is very common to hear among the Kikuyu in reference to
a senior bachelor, ndari micii, ‘he has no home’, though the man may have a huge
mansion. The word homestead and home do not therefore refer to the same thing as an
unmarried man may have a homestead but not a home. He says, “A home is that which
has a woman and a man…” A home is a complex subject that incorporates many
intangibles and metaphysical dimensions and may be very difficult to delineate with a
boundary (Benjamin (1999).
An
analysis of the structure, space use in the
homestead and inside the woman’s house,
Nyumba, is also part of material culture. Special
attention is given to the courtyard and its use.
Figure 2.11: Section through Kikuyu Nyumba showing the changes in levels
(Kamenju, 2011)
20
The structure, geometry, form and construction are also a subject of interest in the
material culture.
British settlers who by selling coffee
earned more money which enabled them
to build better huts for their workers in
the farms. The layout of the hut has
evolved due to the push for shelters that
are healthy to live in and have the correct
human standards.
Williamson afterwards proposed a
layout that re-arranged the traditional
hut into a series of huts of independent
rooms rather than a unitary building.
Later he proposed a bungalow with a
porch and several rooms inside. The
point here is that the functionality of
these spaces did not neglect their
original purpose according to the Kikuyu culture.
Figure 2.12: Internal layout of the Nyumba (Kamenju, 2011)
Figure 2.13: Plan of the improved Nyumba (Kamenju, 2010)
Figure 2.13: Plan of the improved Nyumba (Kamenju, 2010)
21
Figure 2.14: Proposals of changes in housing layout and form (Williamson, 1953)
A: Living house, B: Parents house, C: Girls’ house, D: Boys’ house, E: Kitchen, F:
Visitors’ house. Note that the proposed hut has windows and a higher wall but retains the
shape and construction materials.
2.2.7 Exemplars
2.2.7.1 The Bomas of Kenya
It is a national and government owned cultural institution mandated to archiving cultural
material in the form of architecture, music and dance, as part of their mandate to preserve
material culture and present it to the public. Original research was done by interviewing
old men to reconstruct the Kikuyu homestead. The Bomas of Kenya homestead was built
in 1974 and is still in existence drawing both local and foreign tourists. Its compound
depicts, the architecture of a traditional African home. It is a visual gateway into Kenya’s
ethnic living as well as the diversity of the country’s rich culture. The mud and grass-
thatched huts were built to preserve, maintain, and promote the rich and diverse cultural
values of various tribes of Kenya.
You can view traditional villages
representing the lifestyle of ethnic
groups such as Luo, Kikuyu, Kalenjin,
Taita, Maasai, Kamba, Kisii, Kuria,
Mijikenda, and Luhya. In addition, an
open-air museum shows the different
Figure 2.15: Kikuyu traditional huts at the Bomas of Kenya
(http://www.wheelsonourfeet.com/tag/bomas-of-kenya)
22
lifestyles of each tribe. In a nation so rich in culture, but whose heritage is threatened by
modernity, celebrating culture is perhaps the only way to safeguard it (African Review,
2013). Kikuyu traditional architecture and material culture relies solely on the Bomas of
Kenya homestead for both the photographs and the drawings (Andersen,1977).
2.2.7.2 Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s House in Limuru
Professor Ngugi wa Thiong’o is one of the prominent Kikuyu authors. He has been at the
fore of the debate in Africa of what he calls the colonization of the mind that has resulted,
among other things in the use of the English, French and other European languages in
favor of local languages. His House in Kamirithu was designed by architect George
Nyanja and was an attempt at a restatement of the Kikuyu traditional homestead in
modern terms.
The inspiration for the house was to have been a
search for “a revitalization of Africa, while
pursuing a renaissance of African architecture as a
necessary step in the restoration of African
wholeness” It was to accommodate a professor of
literature who wanted the benefits of modern
technology in a house that reflected his need of ‘moving the centre’ from a Eurocentric to
an Afro centric design which was his idea of ‘decolonizing the mind’ (Thiong'o, 2012). It
has two bedrooms, a sitting room with dining and a study, a kitchen and a store. From the
foregoing it is apparent that there are clients anxious to build homes inspired by tradition
and that architects trained in a heavily leaning western curriculum are ill equipped to
serve such clients. It would benefit the architectural profession in Kenya greatly if
architectural anthropology was infused in the curriculum of the architectural schools
(Kamenju, 2012).
Figure 2.16: Ngugi wa Thiong’o house in Limuru (simoncollings.wordpress.com,
2012)
Figure 4.4: Front view of the house (Author, 2015)Figure 2.16: Ngugi wa
Thiong’o house in Limuru (simoncollings.wordpress.com, 2012)
23
2.3 CONCLUSION
Literature review gave the researcher facts and ideas as he studied similar works by other
people. It was used to offer guidelines to the study and the project as a whole.
Information given in this chapter will give guidelines on how to carry out the project.
However, extensive literature providing guidelines and suggestions for the design of
universal homes is available (see Guetzko and White, 1991; Regnier and Pynoos, 1987;
Pynoos and Regnier, 1991; AARP, 1996; Yearns, 2001, 2000; Null, 2001; Center for
Universal Design, 2005 for extensive lists), and has not been reviewed in its entirety in
this paper.
24
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter focuses on the research design which includes methods used in data
collection, analysis and presentation. Definitions of these methods are included and
explained in detail.
3.2 RESEARCH DESIGN
The research design defines the study type, research question, hypothesis, independent
and dependent variables, experimental design, data collection methods and the statistical
analysis plan. This case study used flexible research design, also known as qualitative
research design. It seeks to understand a given research problem or topic from the
perspectives of the local population it involves. Qualitative research is especially
effective in obtaining culturally specific information about the values, opinions,
behaviors, and social contexts of particular populations. It involved looking in-depth at
no-numerical data. The researcher took a deep, quality look at the phenomenon. This
research design is primarily explanatory research. This research design was used to gain
an understanding of underlying reasons, opinions and motivations. It provided insights
into the problem and helped to develop new ideas for potential quantitative research. The
aim was to seek answers to questions, collect evidence and produce findings that are
applicable beyond the immediate boundaries of the study. Finally, this case study used
qualitative research method to uncover trends in thought and opinions. The use of open-
ended questions and probing gave the participants the opportunity to respond in their own
words, rather than forcing them to choose from fixed responses, as quantitative methods
do. Open-ended questions made it possible to evoke responses that were meaningful and
culturally salient to the participant, unanticipated by the researcher and rich and
explanatory in nature.
25
3.3 TARGET POPULATION
This case study was carried out to find solutions for designing safe and comfortable
living environments for elderly persons - 65 years and above. The areas of interests were
mostly interior spaces in residential homes. However, this case study also focused on
exterior spaces and landscaping of the whole homestead area. The design targeted
homesteads of the Kikuyu people as it incorporates their traditional material culture and
way of life into modernity.
3.4 SAMPLE POPULATION
Purposive sampling, was employed the most as it groups participants according to
preselected criteria relevant to a particular research question. In this case being the
elderly living in residential homes. Purposive sampling was preferred because it is most
successful when data review and analysis are done in conjunction with data collection
which is the case in this research. However, snowball sampling was also included and
played a great role in this research. In this method, participants or informants with whom
contact has already been made use their social networks to refer the researcher to other
people who could potentially participate in or contribute to the study. Such included the
doctors, interior designers, care takers and spouses. Snowball sampling was used to find
and recruit “hidden populations,” that is, groups not easily accessible to researchers
through other sampling strategies. The three core ethical principles of research were
employed in this research; respect for persons to ensure that there was protection from
exploitation of their vulnerability and to ensure that people were not used simply as a
means to achieve research objectives, beneficence which was used to minimize risks
associated with research which are both psychological and social and finally justice
which ensures an equal distribution of risks and benefits resulting from the research
(researchers should share in the benefits of the knowledge gained). In addition, the
participants were given the right to individual informed consent by being told the
following: the purpose of the research, what is expected of the participant (especially
time required for participation), psychological and social risks and benefits expected, the
fact that participation is voluntary and how confidentiality will be protected. The
informed consent used in the study was oral as there was no documented signature
offered by the researcher to the participant.
26
Table3.1: Target Population Sample
POPULATION SAMPLE NUMBER
Architects 2
Interior designers 2
Handicapped people 5
House helps 5
Home care givers 2
Doctors 3
Total 19
Source: Author’s Construct, 2015
3.5 DATA COLLECTION METHODS
The following data collection methods will be employed in this study:
3.5.1 Interviews
Qualitative interviewing aims to delve deep beneath the surface of superficial responses
to obtain true meanings that individuals assign to events, and the complexity of their
attitudes, behaviors and experiences. The researcher used the two types of interviews:
Unstructured interviewing: such interviews allowed the respondent to tell their own
stories in their own words, with prompting by the interviewer. Its objective was to
find out what kind of things are happening rather than to determine the frequency of
predetermined kinds of things that the researcher already believed could happen. The
researcher had a list of topics that he wanted the respondent to talk about.
Semi-structured interviewing: these were characterized by topic guidelines containing
major questions. The questions varied with the level of probing for answers by the
interviewer.
27
3.5.2 Observations
The researcher used observation as one of the data collection methods. When undertaking
observational fieldwork, the researcher attempted to discover the practices and meanings
that the members of the group under study took for granted.
3.5.3 Questionnaires
A set questions were used for obtaining statistically useful or personal information from
individuals.
3.5.4 Multi-media
This involved collection of data by use of photographs and voice recordings.
3.5.5 Document research
This method involved the study of existing documents, either to understand their
substantive content or to illuminate deeper meanings which was revealed by their style
and coverage. They included: media reports, publicity materials and scholarly works.
3.5.6 Case Studies
This method generally utilized several data collection methods like interviews,
observations and documentary analysis.
3.5.7 Triangulation
The researcher used several methods in different combinations in order to gain the most
detailed picture of participants’ experiences.
3.6 DATA ANALYSIS
Analysis involves the breaking the whole study into its separate components for
individual examination. It is the process for obtaining raw data and converting it into
information useful for decision-making by the researcher. The data was analyzed to
answer questions, in line with the research objectives. This study has analyzed data by
use of multimedia, graphs and pie charts.
3.6.1 Multi- media
Data has been presented and analyzed using mostly photography. Data got from voice
recordings and video clips has been presented through text.
28
3.6.2 Graphs
Graphs have been used as picture representatives for one or more sets of information
and how these visually relate to one another. Graphs have helped present data in a
meaningful way.
3.6.3 Pie charts
Pie charts are used to represent parts of a whole item as a way of data analysis.
3.7 DATA PRESENTATION
After being analyzed the data has been presented by use of tables, text and quotations.
3.7.1 Tables
Tabulation of data has been employed in data analysis and presentation.
3.7.2 Texts
Data has been presented by being included in text.
3.7.3 Quotations
Data Quotes from an extensive collection of quotations by famous authors, celebrities,
and newsmakers have been used.
3.8 CONCLUSION
Being a case study, the research has helped to delve deep to obtain true meanings and
give solutions in accordance to the problems at hand. Qualitative methods of data
collection are the most appropriate to use or this study.
29
CHAPTER FOUR
SITE ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF FINDINGS
4.1 INTRODUCTION
As earlier mentioned in chapter one, the site of study is the residential home of an elderly
man in Mutaga, Karatina, Nyeri County in Kenya. Mr. Bernard is a Kikuyu man in his
80s and having a hard time maneuvering around his beautiful home as he is mostly on a
wheel chair or clutches. This chapter will give information about his day to day life at
home and do an analysis of his home in details.
4.2 QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS
Analysis was done on the four main divisions of Interior Design: landscaping, exhibition
and display, furniture and interiors. The analysis of this site is done to answer questions
according to the objectives listed in the first chapter. The main objective being to search
for guidelines for non-ambulant (chair bound), semi-ambulant (lower limb impairments),
visual, and hearing disabled persons in residential houses, the researcher did a qualitative
analysis which was mostly recorded using photography and text.
4.2.1 Landscaping
Many home owners only focus on the interiors of the house and forget the outside part of
it. What surrounds a home is just as important as what's in it. Whether it's a front lawn,
stone paver pathway or intricate garden design, these spaces benefit from the same
attention to detail as any bathroom or kitchen. Well-designed landscaping ideas
complement a home's architecture and design. The right plants, flowers and shrubbery
can greatly enhance its appeal by adding color, texture and even fragrance to the front
yard and backyards.
This is however not the case in Mr. Bernard’s home. An attempt has been made to make
the landscaping of this home appealing.
30
As you enter home you are welcomed by a drive way
from the main road which leads you to a metallic
gate specifically iron which is painted in red to
perhaps match the red roofing of the house. The
drive way has a beautiful short shrub hedge on both
sides which are side by side with a taller hedge of a
different shrub reinforced by a chain link. As you get
to the other side of the gate, you are welcomed by a cool atmosphere brought about by
the vegetation in it.
There has been an attempt to maintain a lawn has been in
the front yard and beautify the landscape with different
types of flowers and trees.
There was also outdoor furniture and structures which
the homeowner termed as a place to relax and enjoy the
fine weather during those days it is available.
The front yard is indeed quite an appeal to many people but to the owner who is
wheelchair bound, it is not quite a fascination as he cannot really enjoy the freedom of
using it fully. The lawn most times is a hindrance since the wheels of his wheelchair get
stuck and he can’t move himself comfortably. He has to ask for help from one of his
family members which is not always a benefit he enjoys.
Figure 4.1: Mr. Bernard’s drive way and gate (Author,2015)
Figure 4.2: Front yard view 1(Author, 2015)
Figure 4.3 Front yard view 2 (Author, 2015)
31
Moving on to the house itself, the first sight form the
gate is very appealing as it is seen firmly fixed and
beautiful. With its high walls, a veranda and pillars
to support the roof, the house appears majestic.
As you walk towards it, the ground has fine gravel
which Mr. Bernard says reduces the occurrence of
mud near the house when the rains come. Despite this
one benefit, he goes on to say that the small particles
of the gravel cause hardships when he has his
wheelchair moving on them. “It requires a lot of effort
especially when moving away from the house as it is sloppy. It feels like moving upwards
a rocky hill,” he says.
There is a small lawn just in front of the veranda
which has been surrounded by a short hedge. This
does not cause any barrier in mobility as it is just for
the landscape aesthetics and not in any way
interfering with the path ways.
Figure 4.4: Front view of the house (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.5: Gravel on the ground (Author, 2015)Figure 4.4: Front view of the
house (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.5: Gravel on the ground (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.6: Lawn in front of the house (Author, 2015)Figure 4.5: Gravel
on the ground (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.6: Lawn in front of the house (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.7: The hedge surrounding the lawn in front of the houseFigure 4.6:
Lawn in front of the house (Author, 2015)
32
A short hedge surrounds the lawn in the front of the
house. On the right side of the house is a high set of stairs
that leads to the zero-grazing unit. Here Mr. Bernard has
reared dairy cattle which he has employed a worker to
look after.
The stair case is so high that it is a hazard to anybody
who is not careful when walking on it. This is so
especially to him if the wheelchair rolls towards that
direction.
There exists another access point to the zero grazing unit
where the feeds are taken through to the animals. It is also
the only entrance where Mr. Bernard can go through to get
closer to his cattle.
Having analyzed the front yard, the back yard was next.
Figure 4.7: The hedge surrounding the lawn in front of the house (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.8: Staircase to the zero-grazing unit (Author, 2015)Figure 4.7: The hedge
surrounding the lawn in front of the house (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.8: Staircase to the zero-grazing unit (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.9: Lawn, alternative entrance to the zero-grazing unit (Author,
2015)Figure 4.8: Staircase to the zero-grazing unit (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.9: Lawn, alternative entrance to the zero-grazing unit (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.11: Backyard view (Author, 2015)Figure 4.9: Lawn, alternative
entrance to the zero-grazing unit (Author, 2015)
33
The most efficient way to move from the front yard to the
back yard is using the left side of the house. It is a path
covered by gravel.
The backyard is nothing more than just more grass in
an attempt to maintain a good lawn.
The hedge is the same as that found in the front yard. Cloth
hanging lines are seen and there are washrooms too; a pit latrine
and a bathroom.
Figure 4.10: Path to the backyard (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.11: Backyard view (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.12: Pit latrine and bathroom (Author,
2015)Figure 4.11: Backyard view (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.12: Pit latrine and bathroom (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.13: Hedged path to washrooms (Author, 2015)Figure
4.12: Pit latrine and bathroom (Author, 2015)
34
There is a short hedge on each side of the path leading to the
washrooms.
4.2.2 Interiors
The interiors of this house have been constructed with modern materials. There are two
three-sitter and four one-sitter sofas.
The living room finishes are plain ceramic tiles for the
floor and well painted walls. A modern wall unit sits at
the front of the room.
Four small stools and two coffee tables are used for
placing items. A loose carpet is at the center of the room.
Figure 4.13: Hedged path to washrooms (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.14: Living room view 1 (Author, 2015)Figure 4.13:
Hedged path to washrooms (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.14: Living room view 1 (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.15: Living room view 2 (Author,
2015Figure 4.14: Living room view 1 (Author,
2015)
Figure 4.15: Living room view 2 (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.21: Kitchen view 2 (Author, 2015)Figure 4.15: Living room view 2
(Author, 2015)
35
The
bathroom and toilet have decorated floor tiles and
plain ceramic tiles on the walls.
The entrance of either has a ramp which has straight edges and
poses a danger of tripping and falling.
The toilet is the floor level one which is not comfortable for a semi
ambulant user.
Figure 4.16: Bathroom and toilet entrance (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.17: Bathroom (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.18 Toilet (Author, 2015)
36
The adjoining corridor is a bit narrow making it not very
suitable for comfortable movement of a wheelchair.
For the kitchen, the floor is all tiled and the walls have tiles up
to 5ft high.
There are hardwood cabinets 5ft from the floor on both longer
sides of the kitchen. The kitchen counter extends from the fire
place up to the door.
The sink is in-built in counter. There is a chair and a small
table where a gas cooker and a microwave have been placed.
Figure 4.19: Adjoining corridor (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.20 Kitchen view 1 (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.21: Kitchen view 2 (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.23: Dining table (Author, 2015)Figure 4.21:
Kitchen view 2 (Author, 2015)
37
4.2.3 Furniture
The furniture in this house is quite appealing to
anyone who does not really know much about
designer-made furniture.
The dining table, stools and coffee tables are made of wood from
Cedar. The sofas are covered using microfiber material
4.2.4 Exhibition and Display
The exhibition and display units are wooden and have glass.
The most prominent one being the living room wall unit. It
allows for a good display of items including entertainment
equipment like the television and the CD changer.
Figure 4.22: Sofa sets, tables and stools (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.23: Dining table (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.23: Dining table (Author, 2015)
Figure 4.24: Wall unit (Author, 2015)
38
Figure 4.25: Kitchen cabinetry (Author, 2015)
Others are the kitchen cabinetry.
4.3 QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS
In order to find out the types of designs people prefer (traditional, contemporary,
transitional, classic), a survey was done and a questionnaire formulated. It was designed
in a scale of 10 whereby the participants had to choose the ratio in which they would like
the four styles be incorporated in their homes.
Table 4.1: Different design styles the home owners prefer their homes to incorporate
HOME PREFERRED DESIGN STYLE RATIO (rated out of 10)
TRADITIONAL CONTEMPORARY TRANSITIONAL CLASSIC
A 3 4 2 1
B 1 6 1 2
C 3 5 1 1
D 2 4 3 1
E 3 5 1 1
TOTAL 12 24 8 6
39
Source: Author’s Construct, 2015
The aim of this study is to determine how people want design style they prefer their
homes to be built in. according to the results, the contemporary and traditional styles
lead. This shows that culture represented here by the traditional style is relevant to this
project. It reveals the importance of the client’s culture the building a home.
A maneuverability test was done in Mr. Bernard’s home whereby a maneuverability scale
was formulated on the most important spaces in the home. The rating was very good,
good, poor and very poor. The scale was 4(very good) down to 1(very poor). The table
below gives that information
Table 4.2: Maneuverability scale at Mr. Bernard’s home.
SPACE EASE IN MANEUVERABILITY
Very good (4) Good (3) Poor (2) Very poor (1)
Indoor
entrances
X
Corridors X
Living room X
Kitchen X
Outdoor paths X
Washrooms X
Bedrooms X
Source: Author’s Construct, 2015
40
4.4 PRESENTATION OF FINDINGS
Figure 4.26: Individual ratio of design style preference
Source: Author, 2015
From the information collected from five homes with a semi ambulant person within
Karatina area, it has been found out that most people prefer a combination of a
contemporary style of building their homes and a traditional style.
This information proves
that people want a home
that still reminds them of
their culture despite the
upcoming styles in the
construction industry.
Source: author, 2015
Mr. Bernard’s home does not differ from the data that was collected. Most of the interiors
are contemporary based on the materials used for flooring, ceiling, windows, doors and
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
home A home B home C home D home E
traditional contemporary transitional classic
24%
48%
16%
12%
style preference
traditional contemporary transitional classic
Figure 4.27: Overall ratio of style by home owners
Figure 4.27: Overall ratio of style by home owners
41
furniture. Aesthetically, it is just the average house. The interiors fail functionally in that
they do not meet the universal design standards.
From the analysis done on maneuverability in Mr. Bernard’s home, it was concluded that
the kitchen and the corridors are the most difficult spaces to maneuver with a 7%.
The living room and exterior paths are the easiest to maneuver with each having a 22%
ease in maneuverability.
Figure 4.28: Ease in maneuverability chart
Source: Author, 2015
Environmental factors that limit maneuverability outside the house are the gravel on the
paths, the long grass, hilly paths and the stairs. It is very difficult to move a wheelchair on
gravel as the small front wheels get stuck and cannot turn. The same is seen on grass.
Hilly paths require a lot of energy to push and the stairs cause total immobility.
The construction of the house did not at all considered universality of users. Principles of
design do not apply in almost every part of this house. Lack of ramps, high kitchen
cabinets and sinks, slippery floors, narrow doors and corridors are just some of the design
failures in this house.
14%
7%
22%
7%
22%
14%
14%
EASE IN MANEUVERABILITY
indoor entrances corridors living room kitchen
outdoor paths washrooms bedroom
42
4.5 CONCLUSION
As observed from this site analysis it can be concluded that the home is not built
according to Universal Design principles. The dweller of this home does not enjoy
independence using the various spaces in this home. There is need to upgrade and
renovate this home in order to make its user comfortable. Research done in four other
such cases reveal that home owners prefer their homes to incorporate traditional designs
into contemporary designs. This is because it gives them a sense of belonging and
reminds them of where they have come from despite the spreading influence by western
cultures.
43
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter is a conclusive chapter of this project paper. It will summarize the data
analysis covered in chapter four and give recommendations for the project at hand which
is making an elderly person’s home both a Universally designed home and yet
aesthetically inspired by Kikuyu material culture.
5.2 SUMMARY OF DATA ANALYSIS
It was established that Mr. Bernard’s home is a recently built home having been
completed in the year 2012. Being his self-given retirement treat, it is a home he wants to
grow old in. However, the house has not been built to accommodate him comfortably. He
experiences hardships especially in movements around the home and he has to be assisted
most of the time. There are barriers at the door entrance such as raised door frames which
hinder wheelchair movement which has to be lifted to get over them. In addition, they
pause danger of tripping and falling which would cause injury. The corridor is rather
narrow making turning the wheelchair into a door difficult as he has to make L-shaped
turns and then reverse to get a clear way for entrance. With the narrow doors it even
becomes more difficult. However, despite these shortcomings, the materials used to
construct this home are modern. They are sustainable and durable materials. The
landscaping is quite an attempt as there are various homestead trees which give the
homestead environment a cool atmosphere. It is what one would term a contemporary
home but with a few aspects of traditional setting like an outdoor pit latrine, a granary
store (thitoo) and an animal shed (kiugu) just next to the main house.
Kitchen cabinetry and sinks being too high from a sitting position means that he cannot
go to the kitchen and make himself a cup of coffee. Living room sofas pose difficulties
when getting on them from a wheelchair.
44
5.3 RECOMMENDATIONS
For landscaping, the gravel on the outside of the house brings about difficulty in
wheelchair movement and is not appealing too.
The recommendation for this is outdoor decking tiles.
They are assembled by interlocking and cost-effective.
They are slip-resistance as they grit embedded in the
glazing so that the tiles have excellent tactile. They have
low water absorption rates therefore are long lasting.
The recommendation for the lawn grass is the
Kikuyu grass. It is cost effective, hardy and fast
growing. In addition, it is suitable for sunny areas
as it is drought resistant. It is easy to maintain
with ease of cultivation and the thickly matting
habit therefore suitable for lawns.
Staircases outside the house should have a ramp
besides them. This will assist in moving the
wheelchair without having to lift it.
The steps on the entrances of rooms should be
leveled so that they allow for easy wheelchair
movement. This will also avoid instances of
tripping.
Figure 5.1: Outdoor tiles (Designitecture, 2015)
Figure 5.1: Outdoor tiles (Designitecture, 2015)
Figure 5.3: Ramp illustration (Planning a
Barrier Free Environment, 2001)
Figure 5.2: Emerald Kikuyu grass (turfgrass.com)
45
The doors should also be made wider and have a kick
plate to protect the push side of doors from damage.
Non-slip ceramic tiles are recommended for the flooring
so as to reduce the occurrence of falls which have dire
consequences. Glass windows big enough for proper
ventilation and maximum lighting
Figure 5.5: An illustration of the required clear floor and knee space (Planning a
Barrier Free Environment, 2001)
Furniture especially seats should
have a height that is easy to slide
on from the wheelchair. The
dining table should have a clear
and level floor space of not less
than 900mm x 1200mm. It should also allow for a knee space of at least 900mm wide,
480mm deep and 750mm high.
The washrooms should be wider but due to the limited space,
it is difficult to get in a wheel chair. The recommendation for
that are grab bars whereby the user can hold and get off the
wheelchair. There should also be a holding shower instead of
the fixed one. A fixed seat should also be installed. However,
Figure 5.4: Wheelchair accessible door (cab-ltd.co.uk)
Figure 5.4: Wheelchair accessible door (cab-ltd.co.uk)
Figure 5.6: Recommended bathroom illustration
(www.assistireland.ie)
Figure 5.6: Recommended bathroom illustration
(www.assistireland.ie)
46
it should be hinged so as to fold it against the wall when not in use.
A sit-on toilet should be installed to and should also have grab bars to assist in movement
of the user.
The corridor adjoining the living room, kitchen,
bedroom and wash rooms should be wider to make its
spacious for easier maneuverability. There is also a need
to put more lighting for the corridor for better visibility.
Mirror lights to aid washing activities in the bathroom.
Double circuits to bedrooms so that lights can be
switched on and off from the bed. All bulbs to provide a
warm light as opposed to a cold white light and should be energy efficient types.
Kitchen cabinetry be put at a reachable level. Cabinets to have doors with glass doors so
easily locate items.
The counters and sink be at a reachable height. The taps
should also be long handled instead of the existing
turning taps. This makes them easy to operate as a little
effort is required. Cabinets should also have glass doors
for easy location of objects.
Kikuyu Culture being the inspiration of this project will
be used mostly in designs and aesthetics. Landscaping
will be set up in accordance with the Kikuyu homestead which includes the arrangement
of buildings and structures depending on function.
Interiors will have Kikuyu material culture inspiration which will be borrowed from the
household items used by traditional Kikuyu people. This will include various patterns
used for making the kiondo which will be seen in mats, carpets and seat covers.
Figure 5.7: Recommended toilet illustration
(www.assistireland.com)
Figure 5.7: Recommended toilet illustration
(www.assistireland.com)
Figure 5.8: Wheelchair accessible kitchen sink
(accessiblehomeliving.com)
47
Furniture and exhibition and display items will borrow design inspirations from
traditional furniture like the three-legged stool. Styles will also come from other
inspirations such as traditional Kikuyu dances.
5.4 CONCLUSION
Recommendations done in this chapter are based on the findings and data analysis used in
writing this paper. They are practical and in reality can be achieved by following methods
outlined and explained in this research paper. With the growing population of seniors in
the society, there is a rising demand for residential homes that can accommodate them
comfortably.
5.5 SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER STUDY
This study does not exploit all the research gaps concerning elderly residential homes and
the Kikuyu culture. This is due to the limits of time and resources in terms of finances,
adequate paper and information. There is need for researchers to look more into these
areas and other areas of interest concerning the user’s culture. Studies should be done on
how to merge Universal Design with other cultures in order to create suitable homes for
people in diverse cultures.
48
REFERENCES
Bronfenbrenner, Urie. "Toward an experimental ecology of human
development." American psychologist 32, no. 7 (1977): 513. Kimani, Emmanuel Kariuki.
"A comparative study of Kikuyu culture and the art of ancient Egypt." PhD diss., 2009.
Crews, Douglas E. "Artificial environments and an aging population: designing for age-
related functional losses." Journal of physiological anthropology and applied human
science 24, no. 1 (2005): 103-109.
Crews, Douglas E., and Susan Zavotka. "Aging, disability, and frailty: implications for
universal design." Journal of physiological anthropology 25, no. 1 (2006): 113-118.
Csikszentmihalyi, Mihaly, and Eugene Rochberg-Halton. "Reflections on
materialism." University of Chicago Magazine 70, no. 3 (1978): 6-15.
Demirbilek, Oya, and Halime Demirkan. "Universal product design involving elderly
users: a participatory design model." Applied ergonomics 35, no. 4 (2004): 361-370.
Haldeman, Scott, Paul Carey, Murray Townsend, and Costa Papadopoulos. "Arterial
dissections following cervical manipulation: the chiropractic experience." Canadian
Medical Association Journal 165, no. 7 (2001): 905-906.
Harrington, Laurie E., Robin D. Hatton, Paul R. Mangan, Henrietta Turner, Theresa L.
Murphy, Kenneth M. Murphy, and Casey T. Weaver. "Interleukin 17–producing CD4+
effector T cells develop via a lineage distinct from the T helper type 1 and 2
lineages." Nature immunology 6, no. 11 (2005): 1123-1132.
Kamenju, Joseph. "Transformation of Kikuyu traditional architecture: case study of
homesteads in lower Mukurwe-ini, Nyeri, Kenya." PhD diss., University of Nairobi,
2013.
Oliver, Paul. Built to meet needs: Cultural issues in vernacular architecture. Routledge,
2007.
49
Rukwaro, R. W. "Traditional African Architecture of the Kikuyu Masaai, Luo and Gabra
Ethic groups of Kenya." (1996).
Serra, Martin J., Thomas W. Barnes, Kelly Betschart, Mathew J. Gutierrez, Kimberly J.
Sprouse, Cheryl K. Riley, Lora Stewart, and Ryan E. Temel. "Improved parameters for
the prediction of RNA hairpin stability." Biochemistry36, no. 16 (1997): 4844-4851.
The publication 'Planning a Barrier Free Environment' published in 2001
Zheng, H., J. Wang, S. E. Lofland, Z. Ma, L. Mohaddes-Ardabili, T. Zhao, L. Salamanca-
Riba et al. "Multiferroic BaTiO3-CoFe2O4 nanostructures." Science303, no. 5658
(2004): 661-663.Gathigira, S. Kiama. "Miikarire ya Agikuyu [Customs of the Kikuyu]."
(1934).
50
APPENDICES
Research strategy and schedule diagram
Source: Author, 2015
Questionnaire guide
Source: Saldana, 2013
Preparation
- Scheduling
- Pre-assessment
-Initial site visit
-Logistics: access,
camera
permission, paper-
based instruments
Onsite
-Interviews
-Observations
-Preliminary
findings
-Inspections
Wrap-up
-Final paperwork
-Report
production
-Report delivery
51
Observation guide
Source: author, 2015
IMPROVING MOBILITY
Does the room layout enable patient mobility within the room?
o Space for clearly defined disabled person
o Clearances for wheelchair and furniture
o Clearance between bed and chair enabling pivot-turn for wheel chair
Does the flooring selection and design enable user and family mobility?
o Flooring is stable, firm and slip-resistant
o Low reflectance value to finish to minimize glare
o Low contrast in flooring patterns
o Minimum changes between flooring types within the room
o Minimum joints and seams to ensure that sharp edged objects like sticks
or heels do not flooring trips
Does the furniture selection enable the user mobility?
o Built-in furniture stable to support user and weight bearing
requirements.
o Chairs with armrests
o Space between the chair to support foot position changes
o Easily seen casters for rolling furniture that can be locked
Is there clear, barrier-free access to the bathroom?
o No equipment or other obstruction in path to bathroom.
o Flush flooring transitions
o Support path e.g. handrail
o Large door openings accommodating user and attached equipment
o Night-lighting located between the bed and bathroom
52
Questionnaire
Landscaping
1. List hobbies that might influence property use.
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________
2. Do you have pets that might require a special area?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
3. Are there any allergies or other medical conditions to be considered?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
4. Is a children’s play area needed? How big?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
5. Entryway:
-would you like it open or more closed for privacy?
______________________________________________________________________
-what type of walkway?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
-is it wide enough (welcoming)?
________________________________________________________________________
6. Driveway:
53
-is it wide enough for your needs?
________________________________________________________________________
-do you need parking for guests?
________________________________________________________________________
7. Do you need room for a composite pit? Woodpile? Storage shed?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Interiors
8. In what ratio would you prefer your home to incorporate these design styles?
Contemporary
Traditional
Transitional
Classic
________________________________________________________________________
9. What is the single best thing about your house?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
10. What is the worst?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
11. What could be easily improved?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
12. What’s best left alone?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
13. What do you know about Universal Design?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
54
14. Which places in your house can’t you access independently?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
15. In what ways do you show appreciation of your culture through your home?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
16. What inspires you most in the Kikuyu culture?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Furniture and equipment
17. What kind of items do you need storage for?
Utensils
Cutlery
Dry food
Canned food
Cleaning supplies
Glassware
Pottery
18. What type of storage do you prefer?
Shelves
Sliding shelves
Drawers
19. What type of wood species would you prefer?
Oak
Cherry
Maple
55
Pine
20. What kind of countertop would you like?
Natural stone
Wood
Laminate
Stainless steel
21. What is your ironmongery preference?
Knobs
Pulls
22. Which faucet options would you prefer?
Single hands
High-arc spout
Pull-out sprayer
Separate sprayer
23. What type of sink would best suit you?
Single bowl
Double bowl
Triple bowl
Round bowl