How Colorado Home Builders Are Building More Accessible Homes
The future of homebuilding is about more than beautiful finishes and energy efficiency—it’s about creating homes that work for everyone.
Across Colorado, home builders are increasingly incorporating accessibility and universal design features into new construction homes. These thoughtful design elements make homes more functional for people of all ages and abilities while allowing homeowners to comfortably age in place.
For Colorado REALTORS®, understanding these features is becoming an important part of serving today’s buyers and marketing new construction homes effectively.
What Is Universal Design?
Universal design is the concept of creating homes that are usable by as many people as possible, regardless of age, mobility, or physical ability. Unlike specialized modifications that may be added later, universal design features are seamlessly incorporated into the home’s original design.
The result? Homes that are stylish, practical, and adaptable for years to come.
Accessibility Features Buyers Are Looking For
Many Colorado home builders now offer accessibility features either as standard options or available upgrades.
Some of the most popular include:
- Zero-step or low-threshold front entries
- Wider doorways and hallways
- Open-concept floor plans with more maneuvering space
- Main-floor primary suites or first-floor living
- Lever-style door handles and faucets
- Enhanced lighting throughout the home
- Smart home technology for added convenience
These features benefit more than homeowners with mobility needs. They’re also appreciated by growing families, people recovering from injuries, and buyers planning to stay in their homes long-term.
Accessible Bathrooms and Kitchens
Bathrooms and kitchens often have the greatest impact on everyday comfort and usability.
Builders are increasingly designing spaces with:
- Curbless or walk-in showers
- Comfort-height toilets
- Slip-resistant flooring
- Reinforced walls for future grab bars
- Wider clearances around fixtures
- Pull-out shelving and drawers
- Easy-to-reach storage
- Spacious kitchen work areas
Many of these features blend seamlessly into modern home design while providing long-term flexibility for homeowners.
What Colorado REALTORS® Should Know
As buyers become more interested in accessible homes and aging-in-place features, REALTORS® can provide additional value by understanding the basics.
Know the Difference Between ADA and Residential Construction
One of the most common misconceptions is that all accessible homes must be “ADA compliant.”
In reality, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) primarily applies to commercial buildings and public accommodations—not most privately owned single-family homes.
Instead, many residential builders follow universal design principles or incorporate accessibility features based on buyer preferences rather than ADA requirements.
Be Familiar with Colorado Requirements
While single-family homes generally aren’t required to meet ADA standards, accessibility requirements may apply to certain multifamily housing and residential developments under federal and Colorado fair housing laws.
When discussing accessibility with buyers, it’s always best to verify specific features with the builder rather than assuming a home meets any particular standard.
Ask the Right Questions
When touring new construction communities, REALTORS® should ask builders:
- Which accessibility features come standard?
- What options or upgrades are available?
- Can accessibility features be added during construction?
- Are floor plans designed for aging in place?
Having these conversations helps match buyers with homes that meet both their current and future needs.
Why Accessibility Matters
Colorado’s population continues to evolve, and many homeowners want homes that will adapt with them over time. Accessibility features not only improve everyday living but can also increase a home’s long-term appeal and functionality.
For builders, incorporating universal design creates homes that serve a wider range of buyers. For REALTORS®, understanding these features allows you to better educate clients and confidently market today’s new construction homes.
As our industry continues to evolve, accessible design isn’t just a trend—it’s becoming an important part of building stronger communities and creating homes that truly work for everyone.
About the Builder Realty Council (BRC)
The Builder Realty Council of Metro Denver brings together REALTORS®, home builders, developers, and industry professionals to strengthen relationships, share market knowledge, and elevate the new home industry across Colorado. Through education, networking, and professional development, BRC helps members stay informed on the trends shaping the future of homebuilding.