In this episode, Valerie sits down with architect, author, and accessibility advocate Ron Wickman to explore what it truly means to design homes that support independence, dignity, and lifelong connection.
Ron brings over 30 years of experience in accessible architecture—and a deeply personal perspective. His father became paraplegic in 1964 at just 23 years old and was told he would likely live in an institution and never work again. Instead, he became a city councillor in Edmonton and later a Member of the Legislative Assembly, advocating for change across Alberta.
Growing up immersed in disability advocacy shaped Ron’s professional mission: transforming accessible design from a “special feature” into the cultural norm.
We Discuss:
How Lived Experience Shapes Design
Ron shares how navigating the world alongside his father exposed the barriers embedded in the built environment—from backdoor restaurant entrances to inaccessible homes—and how those experiences led him to architecture instead of politics.
What “Accessible Design” Really Means
Ron clarifies the differences between:
The Power of Visitability
Inspired by disability advocate Eleanor Smith, the concept of visitability ensures that every home has:
These features benefit everyone.
The 3 Critical Features of a Forever Home
If you are searching for or building a home that can be modified for accessibility, Ron recommends focusing on:
Ground-to-Front-Door Relationship
Can someone enter without steps?
If not, what modifications (ramps, lifts) would be required?
Vertical Circulation
If it’s not a bungalow, is there room for:
Bathroom Size & Layout
Older homes often have bathrooms that are too small to modify without major structural changes. Adequate space from the beginning makes aging in place—and caregiving—significantly easier.
Ron advocates for “wet rooms”—fully waterproofed bathrooms with sloped floors and open shower areas.
Shifting the Cultural Mindset
One of the biggest barriers to accessible housing isn’t cost—it’s perception.
Make accessibility the norm—not the exception.
Coming Next
Ron will return to discuss his work designing homes for the neurodivergent population—an area requiring even more nuanced, individualized planning.
Connect with Ron
Google Ron Wickman Architect online to visit his website and explore his publications on accessible housing.
Connect with Valerie
Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk
Editor: Scott Arbeau
Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)
https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)
If this episode encouraged or informed you, please share it with another parent navigating the forever home journey.
Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/
