Livable Housing Design Standard Blog

As building code consultants, we have a crucial role in guiding builders and architects in creating homes that cater to the evolving needs of their occupants. The introduction of the ABCB Livable Housing Design Standard marks a significant milestone in making homes more accessible, adaptable, and user-friendly. This blog post delves into the key aspects of the standard and its implications for residential design, highlighting how you can implement these provisions in your projects.

Aims of the Livable Housing Design Standard

The primary goal of the Livable Housing Design Standard is to ensure that homes are:

• Easier to enter

• Easier to navigate in and around

• Adaptable to the changing needs of occupants

• Capable of allowing people to age in their homes with minimal structural alterations

By adhering to these principles, we can create living spaces that offer greater flexibility and convenience, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

Distinguishing the ABCB Standard from Livable Housing Australia Design Guidelines

It’s essential to note that the ABCB Livable Housing Standard differs from the Livable Housing Australia Design Guidelines. While both aim to improve accessibility, they have distinct requirements. The ABCB standard applies specifically to dwellings (Class 1a) and apartments (Class 2), with particular differences in access provisions.

Access Requirements for Dwellings (Class 1a)

For Class 1a dwellings (houses), step-free access is mandatory unless certain conditions make it impractical. These conditions include:

• Steep ground slopes exceeding a 1:14 gradient
• Space limitations preventing the construction of an AS 1428.1 compliant walkway or ramp
• Existing features that necessitate a ramp steeper than a 1:14 gradient

In cases where step-free access cannot be provided from the property boundary, alternative access options include paths from a garage or carport.

Dwelling (Class 1a) Access Options

When designing access paths for Class 1a dwellings, consider the following options:

Option 1: Access Path from Property Boundary

• The path must be at least 1000 mm wide, step-free, and meet specific crossfall requirements.
• Gates along the path should be a minimum of 820 mm wide.
• Walkways should have a gradient between 1:14 and 1:20, with 1200 mm top and bottom landings.

Option 2: Access from Garage or Carport

• The access path requirements for carpark/carport entry are the same as those for property boundary access.

Dwelling Entry Requirements

To meet the ABCB standard, at least one dwelling entrance must comply with the following:

• A minimum clear door width of 820 mm (excluding door thickness)
• A maximum floor level difference of 5 mm between internal and external finished levels
• A threshold ramp (1:8 gradient) for any level difference greater than 5 mm
• A 1200 x 1200 mm landing on the external side of the entry

Internal Access Requirements

Internal accessibility is crucial for creating livable homes. Ensure that access is provided to all habitable rooms, a laundry, a sanitary compartment, and a room containing a shower. Key requirements include:

• Internal entrance floor corridors must provide a minimum clear width of 1000 mm.
• Internal doorways must have a minimum clear width of 820 mm and a maximum level difference of 5 mm.

Sanitary and Shower Compartment Requirements

Sanitary Compartments:

• At least one sanitary compartment (containing a toilet pan or urinal) must be provided on the entry level.
• The identified sanitary compartment should offer a 1200 x 900 mm clear circulation space in front of the toilet pan, separate from the door swing in any position.
• Reinforcement requirements apply for the toilet pan, shower, and bath (if provided).

Shower Compartments:

• At least one shower allowing independent access must be provided within the dwelling.
• The shower must be hob-less to ensure step-free entry.

Applicability to Existing Homes

The ABCB Livable Housing Design Standard also applies to existing homes, particularly when building alterations exceed 50% of the existing building volume. In such cases, upgrades are triggered under Building Regulation 233. It is advisable to consult with a building code consultant to determine if a performance solution report may be accepted for compliance issues.

Exemptions and Important Facts

Several exemptions are allowed under the standard for Class 1a dwellings, including:

• Steepness of the site
• Insufficient space on site
• Shared carpark/carport that is not directly connected to the dwelling

However, exemptions are not permitted if access can be provided via a rear entry. Additionally, decks and verandas, as well as driveways, can form part of the access way, provided they meet the minimum size requirements.

Additional Resources and References

For a comprehensive understanding of the ABCB Livable Housing Design Standard, refer to the following resources:

• NCC Livable Housing Design Handbook (2023)
• ABCB Housing Provisions Standard (2022)
• ABCB Standard for Livable Housing Design (2022)
• ABCB Voluntary Standard for Livable Housing Design – Beyond Minimum (2023)
• ABCB National Construction Code (2022)

These resources provide detailed guidelines and specifications to help builders and architects implement the standard effectively.

Conclusion

As building code consultants, it is our responsibility to ensure that new homes and significant alterations to existing homes comply with the ABCB Livable Housing Design Standard. By doing so, we can create living spaces that are not only functional and accessible but also adaptable to the changing needs of occupants. This approach promotes inclusivity and allows residents to age in place with minimal modifications, enhancing their quality of life.

Please download the presentation below for a summary of the details within this blog post.