Lifetime Homes Design Guide (EP 100)

BRE (Building Research Establishment) is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries.

On 19 October 2011, BRE published the Lifetime Homes Design Guide (EP 100) by Lifetime Homes, written by Chris Goodman from the Habinteg Housing Association, with a foreword by Wayne Hemingway.

The idea for a Lifetime Homes Standard originated in the in late 1980’s, and was first adopted in connection with a project by the Helen Hamlyn Foundation. It developed to become a standard for creating integrated and inclusive housing for a wide range of people with differing needs. It sets out the principles implicit in good contemporary housing design, that is thoughtful, forward-looking, and maximises utility, independence and quality of life.

The 72 page guide describes the design requirements for homes necessary to meet the differing and changing needs of households. It provides guidance about how to incorporate the Lifetime Homes Standard’s design criteria, including; inclusivity, accessibility, adaptability, sustainability and good value. The guide is intended to help develop design solutions that cater for the broadest range of needs, and allow simple, cost-saving adaptations in the future.

The contents of the guide are: