Zero-step entry: at least one entry with NO step from grade to threshold (≤ ½ in lip)

Description

Aging-in-place + universal-design principle: at least ONE entry to the home should be no-step — grade slopes gently to the threshold (≤ 2% slope), threshold ≤ ½ in tall. Often the rear or garage entry rather than the formal front — but any entry counts. This eliminates the wheelchair / walker / stroller barrier without compromising the home's curb appeal.

Why this exists

Stepless entry is the single highest-value aging-in-place design move. It's free if planned in the foundation grade beam; expensive (and ugly) if retrofitted via ramp. Architects designing aging-in-place ready homes should locate the no-step entry on the site plan during schematic.

Categories

Source

Solver enforcement

Browsable only — the solver does not currently enforce this directive (no spec-level data to check against). This entry exists so the architect personas can cite it in conversation and the user can read what the rule says.

Related directives

• Dining room sizing · DINING-ROOM-SIZE
• Mudroom sizing · MUDROOM-SIZE
• Half bath near public zones · HALF-BATH-NEAR-PUBLIC
• Stairs not from bedrooms · STAIRS-NOT-FROM-BEDROOM
• Hallway budget 6-12% of total · HALLWAY-BUDGET