Being Tall – Home Design Tips For Tall People

Despite what people think, being tall has many disadvantages, most of which arise in a domestic setting. The good news is that good home design can eliminate many of the problems tall people face. This is particularly easy to consider in new construction, but minor modifications to your existing home can make a home much more comfortable for tall people.

One hundred years ago, the average height of an American man was 2 inches shorter than it is now. Home builders build homes for the average person, and as long as you’re not too far off the mark, the regular home is perfectly functional for you. However, I am 6 feet 5 inches and I notice many things in the normal house that do not suit my posture, height and build. Any taller body will notice more problems and to a more severe degree. What I consider a minor inconvenience, a taller person might consider a factor that makes a house uninhabitable. Let’s go room by room…

Kitchen — Countertops, sinks, faucets, etc. they should be an inch or two taller to avoid having to bend down to prepare food. Exhaust fans should be taller, as should all lighting fixtures, to avoid head injuries. It also helps to place the handles on the drawers, cabinet, and refrigerator/freezer a little higher. Much of this is only possible at the time of construction, but with the help of a good architect it can be designed into your home.

bath — probably the worst room in the house for a tall guy. The shower head should be tall enough to allow you to stand up straight and still get a generous spray of water on your head. Not having to lean too far into the shower controls is nice. Some vendors offer extra-long baths, a must for tall people who like to submerge their entire body, including their knees, in the water. The final problem in the bathroom is a mirror placed too low on the wall. There is nothing worse than bending your knees to see your face while you shave.

bedroom — the main problem here is the bed and its length. Sleigh bed designs, with the board vertical at the end, should also be avoided. Another tip here is to increase the height of your closet hanging rails a bit to prevent your shirts from hitting the bottom floor of the closet.