Adaptable House
Kitchen Features
Ergonomics that enhance performance while supporting rest and relief
Concept
The Kitchen Features System transforms the kitchen into a space of capability, endurance, and independence. One of the most demanding areas in the home becomes an environment that empowers balance, mobility, and energy management. Continuous supports, overhead stabilization, and a glide-based mobility system allow users to move, cook, and participate fully — even on days when standing or walking is difficult.
Design Intent
The kitchen is essential to daily living, nourishment, and social connection. This system integrates ergonomic and therapeutic support directly into the architecture so users can remain engaged in the activities that matter most. Rather than relying on separate assistive devices, the environment itself provides strength, stability, and relief — preserving dignity, autonomy, and confidence at the heart of the home.
User Experience
Every element facilitates movement, rest, and endurance.
• The island provides continuous handholds for balance, leaning, and pausing
• A pivoting overhead bar can fully support the body or act as a stretching aid
• A rail-based mobility system allows users to glide through the kitchen without bearing full body weight
• A restorative wall offers suspension points for stretching, resting, and massage— helping relieve pain and extend time in the space
Together, these features make the kitchen feel safe, empowering, and usable no matter what kind of day the user is having.
Mary’s Reflection
“Cooking is part of how I care for myself and my family. Some days, my legs don’t cooperate. With these supports, I can stay in the kitchen — leaning when I need to, gliding when I can’t stand, stretching out tight spots, and keeping my independence. It turns the kitchen from a challenge into a space I can enjoy.”
Research & Collaboration
The Kitchen Features System has been developed through collaborative Human-Centered Design research at the University of Washington, California State University, Long Beach, and the Rhode Island School of Design. Work to date includes conceptual design and user-centered exploration. The University of Washington’s Mechanical Engineering department will advance this feature as a Capstone Project in 2025–2026, focusing on ergonomics, retractability, and structural performance.
Next Steps
Engineering development, full-scale working prototypes, first-run studies, and manufacturing are in progress. We are seeking funding and manufacturing partners to bring these kitchen-based mobility and support systems into homes.
Join Us. Make an Impact.
Your support helps move these responsive systems from concept to lived experience. Opportunities include:
• Donate – fuel innovation and accelerate development
• Collaborate – partner on prototyping, manufacturing, or construction
• Volunteer – contribute your expertise or time to advance the project
Together, we can transform the kitchen into a place of strength, comfort, and participation — supporting endurance, independence, and joy in daily life.
