ᐅ How can the IKEA Hemnes be modified for barrier-free (accessible) use?
Created on: 12 Aug 2023 08:32
J
JoshboHello everyone,
I am currently exploring how the IKEA Hemnes furniture series can be adapted for barrier-free use in a practical way. I am not just focusing on individual pieces but aiming for a comprehensive approach that covers as many aspects of accessibility as possible.
Specifically, I am interested in what modifications to the Hemnes wardrobes, dressers, and beds could make them easier to access and use for people with physical limitations. Possible changes might include adjustable components, improved handles, or altered height dimensions. Material adjustments or additional modules could also be relevant.
Does anyone have experience or know of suitable solutions? I am interested in both technical conversion options and tips on how to best adapt existing Hemnes models without losing the typical design features.
Looking forward to an active exchange!
I am currently exploring how the IKEA Hemnes furniture series can be adapted for barrier-free use in a practical way. I am not just focusing on individual pieces but aiming for a comprehensive approach that covers as many aspects of accessibility as possible.
Specifically, I am interested in what modifications to the Hemnes wardrobes, dressers, and beds could make them easier to access and use for people with physical limitations. Possible changes might include adjustable components, improved handles, or altered height dimensions. Material adjustments or additional modules could also be relevant.
Does anyone have experience or know of suitable solutions? I am interested in both technical conversion options and tips on how to best adapt existing Hemnes models without losing the typical design features.
Looking forward to an active exchange!
Hello Joshbo,
I find your question very relevant and practical. The Hemnes series is quite widespread, and making it accessible is indeed important since many of the furniture pieces are not originally designed for users with special needs.
First of all, when planning an accessible renovation, you should definitely consider:
- Handles: These should be large, easy to grip, and within reach. The original knobs or relatively thin pull handles are rather unsuitable. One option would be to replace them with wide bar handles or lever handles that can be operated with a fist or even the elbow.
- Height adjustment: Many Hemnes dressers and cabinets have a standard height that can be difficult to access for wheelchair users. It is recommended to either place the furniture on height-adjustable feet or build a frame structure that raises and stabilizes the furniture.
- Interior layout: For accessible use, it is important that the inside of cabinets and dressers is easy to reach. Drawers with soft-close, smooth gliding mechanisms, and possibly pull-out modules are very helpful. The standard wooden shelf board is rather obstructive. You might consider installing special guide rails to better support the pull-outs.
- Materials: Smooth surfaces are optimal for cleaning and touch, but you should also consider that matte surfaces better conceal fingerprints and scratches.
- Beds: To be accessible, beds should be higher or equipped with adjustable slatted frames to enable easier getting in and out. A small side guard rail for stability without greatly restricting mobility would be sensible.
When implementing these changes, it can be helpful to modify the existing furniture in a modular way so that individual elements like handles or feet can be replaced. I hope this gives you some initial ideas!
I find your question very relevant and practical. The Hemnes series is quite widespread, and making it accessible is indeed important since many of the furniture pieces are not originally designed for users with special needs.
First of all, when planning an accessible renovation, you should definitely consider:
- Handles: These should be large, easy to grip, and within reach. The original knobs or relatively thin pull handles are rather unsuitable. One option would be to replace them with wide bar handles or lever handles that can be operated with a fist or even the elbow.
- Height adjustment: Many Hemnes dressers and cabinets have a standard height that can be difficult to access for wheelchair users. It is recommended to either place the furniture on height-adjustable feet or build a frame structure that raises and stabilizes the furniture.
- Interior layout: For accessible use, it is important that the inside of cabinets and dressers is easy to reach. Drawers with soft-close, smooth gliding mechanisms, and possibly pull-out modules are very helpful. The standard wooden shelf board is rather obstructive. You might consider installing special guide rails to better support the pull-outs.
- Materials: Smooth surfaces are optimal for cleaning and touch, but you should also consider that matte surfaces better conceal fingerprints and scratches.
- Beds: To be accessible, beds should be higher or equipped with adjustable slatted frames to enable easier getting in and out. A small side guard rail for stability without greatly restricting mobility would be sensible.
When implementing these changes, it can be helpful to modify the existing furniture in a modular way so that individual elements like handles or feet can be replaced. I hope this gives you some initial ideas!
Converting the IKEA Hemnes series into accessible furniture presents an interesting challenge. To approach this systematically, it is best to consider each type of furniture separately and analyze the following points in detail:
- Cabinets and dressers: Hemnes models often have fixed heights of around 98 cm (approximately 39 inches), for example, dressers. For wheelchair users, furniture that is too tall can make reaching the upper drawers difficult. I would initially recommend adjusting the overall height using interchangeable plinth risers or height-adjustable platforms. This allows for customized heights, which can vary greatly depending on the user.
- Handles: The small knob handles typical to the Hemnes range are generally unsuitable for people with limited motor skills. For an accessible redesign, I suggest installing ergonomically shaped, large pull handles made of metal or plastic, which require less force to operate. It is important to ensure secure attachment, as some handles need to withstand repeated stress.
- Interior layout: Removing fixed wooden shelves and installing flexible drawer slides improves access to contents, especially in deeper cabinets. Ideally, telescopic slides that fully extend should be used. Equally important is adding interior lighting that automatically turns on when the furniture is opened.
- Beds: Hemnes beds are traditionally made of solid wood and tend to be quite low. To improve accessibility, they should be equipped with height-adjustable bases or replaced with adjustable slatted bed frames. Additional stability through side rails or supports can also be helpful.
- Surface/material: For people with sensory impairments, a matte, low-reflective finish is recommended. It may also be beneficial to gently round off edges to reduce the risk of injury.
One final question for you: Do you want the focus to be primarily on structural modifications to the furniture itself, or should the overall concept including furniture and room layout (e.g., wheelchair space, access routes) be considered? This greatly influences planning priorities.
- Cabinets and dressers: Hemnes models often have fixed heights of around 98 cm (approximately 39 inches), for example, dressers. For wheelchair users, furniture that is too tall can make reaching the upper drawers difficult. I would initially recommend adjusting the overall height using interchangeable plinth risers or height-adjustable platforms. This allows for customized heights, which can vary greatly depending on the user.
- Handles: The small knob handles typical to the Hemnes range are generally unsuitable for people with limited motor skills. For an accessible redesign, I suggest installing ergonomically shaped, large pull handles made of metal or plastic, which require less force to operate. It is important to ensure secure attachment, as some handles need to withstand repeated stress.
- Interior layout: Removing fixed wooden shelves and installing flexible drawer slides improves access to contents, especially in deeper cabinets. Ideally, telescopic slides that fully extend should be used. Equally important is adding interior lighting that automatically turns on when the furniture is opened.
- Beds: Hemnes beds are traditionally made of solid wood and tend to be quite low. To improve accessibility, they should be equipped with height-adjustable bases or replaced with adjustable slatted bed frames. Additional stability through side rails or supports can also be helpful.
- Surface/material: For people with sensory impairments, a matte, low-reflective finish is recommended. It may also be beneficial to gently round off edges to reduce the risk of injury.
One final question for you: Do you want the focus to be primarily on structural modifications to the furniture itself, or should the overall concept including furniture and room layout (e.g., wheelchair space, access routes) be considered? This greatly influences planning priorities.
Palenar schrieb:
Are you focusing more on structural modifications to the furniture itself, or should the overall concept of furniture and interior design (e.g., wheelchair accessibility, paths of movement) be considered?For a quick modification of the Hemnes series, I would recommend:
- Replacing the handles with large pull handles
- Converting the feet to height-adjustable mounting brackets
- Adding soft-close mechanisms to the drawers
- Replacing fixed shelves with pull-out shelves
This way, the furniture becomes more accessible without major structural changes.
If more time and budget are available, a comprehensive concept is, of course, more meaningful.
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