When life throws unexpected challenges your way, having a home that can accommodate those changes is essential. We recently worked with a client who faced such a situation. After undergoing surgery, she found herself in a wheelchair, which made navigating her home’s entry difficult. With stairs leading to her covered front patio, getting into her house became a major obstacle. We were called in to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution that would meet ADA guidelines and, most importantly, allow her safe and comfortable access to her home.
Designing a Ramp That Blends Functionality and Style
This project involved transforming the entryway of a ranch-style home to provide a safe, ADA-compliant, wheelchair accessible entrance in Apex. The home originally featured a two-car driveway leading to a curved walkway and a charming covered patio (all concrete) that was previously accessible only by stairs. We reimagined the walkway as a smooth, curved concrete slab ramp, designed to gently slope and flow seamlessly into the existing front patio. By using concrete for the ramp, we ensured the new structure matched the driveway and patio, creating a cohesive, intentional design that looked like it had always been part of the home.
Enhancing Curb Appeal with Functional Design
While safety and accessibility were our primary concerns, we also recognized the importance of creating a visually appealing ramp that seamlessly integrated with the home’s existing aesthetic. To achieve this, we constructed a beautiful stone paver wall along the side of the ramp facing the street. This wall served a dual purpose: it not only enhanced the landscape’s appearance with a modern and elegant touch but also provided essential edge protection, ensuring compliance with ADA requirements.
The raised concrete ramp, while functional, needed to blend naturally into the home’s design. The stone paver wall softened the look of the ramp and concealed the sloped structure, making it feel like a deliberate extension of the home rather than an afterthought. The result was a smooth transition from the ramp to the rest of the yard, improving both functionality and visual appeal while ensuring the safety of those using the ramp.
Safety First: Adding Railings for Extra Security
To further enhance safety (and for ADA compliance) we installed a sturdy railing on the left side of the ramp, giving the client extra support as she moves in and out of her home. This railing is crucial for maintaining balance and stability, particularly for individuals using wheelchairs or those who may need extra assistance. The railing provides peace of mind for anyone using the ramp, particularly on wet or slippery days, ensuring the client’s new entrance is both secure and stylish.
Fast, Reliable Service for an Urgent Situation
Time was of the essence for this project, and our team worked efficiently to complete the ramp quickly without compromising quality. The result is a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics that offers a safe, ADA-compliant wheelchair accessible entrance in Apex, while maintaining the beauty of her home’s exterior. This home is now fully accessible from the driveway, allowing the homeowner to safely and comfortably enter and exit their home without obstacles. The thoughtful design ensures that the ramp provides easy, secure mobility while blending naturally with the home’s existing landscape.
At Hardscapes of Holly Springs, we understand that accessibility projects need more than just practical solutions—they need to be done thoughtfully to meet ADA guidelines, must consider the homeowner’s vision and sometimes require a expedited timeline. If you’re facing mobility challenges or simply want to make your home more accessible, let us help you create a solution that’s both functional and beautiful. Contact us today to get started on your project!
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