Timothy Lawrence and Chuck Hammack are now part of the select group of professionals nationwide to earn the Certified Green Professional™ designation, certifying them with the skills and knowledge necessary to remodel or modify a home with green building principles. Coursework leading to the designation

Remodeling schedules can be a lot like rush hour traffic. Spring and summer are the busiest times of year for home remodeling. And just like rush hour traffic, it’s impossible to speed up because there are so many people trying to do the same thing.

Hear the words universal design, and your eyes might glaze over. Either you don’t know what it is, or you don’t think you need it. But the truth is, if you want your home to be a place that is comfortable, functional and safe, it needs to be a part of your remodel.

Maybe you’ve thought about how to make your home more accessible. Maybe you haven’t. But anytime you take on a new remodeling project, it’s smart to think about how your family will use the space now and in the future. Here are three simple questions to ask when you’re planning your next project.

Universal design doesn’t have to be all about ramps and stair lifts. It doesn’t even have to be expensive or difficult. Here are four very easy and affordable ways to incorporate universal design elements into your next remodeling project.