Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms brand Symphony is introducing Freedom – thoughtfully designed for all ages and abilities, including those with mobility requirements.

The Freedom brand is designed in collaboration with the Adam Thomas Consultancy. Adam is an accessible design consultant and industry expert and through 40 years of personal experience and research, his kitchen designs have helped to transform homes throughout the UK.

When we think of accessible design, our thoughts may turn immediately to a clinical, medical environment that may be big on safety but is severely lacking in style. Accessible design needn’t be something to steer away from however, as it can benefit all members of the family and improve independence with safety, functionality, and style. In fact, the UK government has recently announced a £300 million investment to increase the range of supported housing options and at least £150 million to drive greater adoption of technology, which can support independent living and improve care.

So what is accessible design? In bathrooms think non-slip tiles, a shower seat, bath grips and infra-red taps – all ideally suited to a wide range of people including young children and older people. In the kitchen, everyday essentials can be designed for ease of use, for everyone. Consider electric rise and fall worksurfaces with a safety stop mechanism, accessible heights for cabinets and appliances, waterfall edge worktops, induction hobs and a colour contrast between furniture, flooring, worktops and walls to assist those with visual impairments.

As more and more of us embrace multi-generational living, inviting our elderly parents to live with us, future-proofing the home now makes financial sense as well as in terms of safety and peace of mind. Consider whether it’s best to go for an accessible design, which can be used autonomously; or something adaptable, which is created with future accessibility in mind.

Adam Thomas says, “I’ve been involved providing expert design advice for the Freedom accessible kitchen range since the range was launched in 2018, it’s all about designing elements which can support independent living for those living with disabilities as well as benefit the whole family such as co-habiting families with people living longer.  The range embraces safety and functionality whilst ensuring personalisation and style, so it’s perfect for the increase in multi-generational living.”

The Freedom by Symphony range is available through retail partners around the UK.

For further information about Symphony, please visit www.symphony-group.co.uk