"If we're talking about access or universal design or home modifications, it all starts outside, " says Ward.

NPR: 'Future Home' Adds Ease to Living for Everyone

The downstairs, where Ward lives, is a showcase of universal design, built to allow him to live as independently as possible.

NPR: 'Future Home' Adds Ease to Living for Everyone

Some of the universal design elements she incorporated were different levels of countertops, elevated appliances, movable work surfaces and shelves that slide out of cabinets.

CNN: Don't let disabilities or age rob you of a stylish home

Ward became interested in universal design by necessity.

NPR: 'Future Home' Adds Ease to Living for Everyone

Fuller founded WET (water entertainment technologies) Design, now of Universal City, Calif.

FORBES: Splash!

Intel has adapted the design for the concept universal communicator that was unveiled by Intel boss Paul Ottelini at the Developer Forum that took place from 16-18 September.

BBC: NEWS | Technology | Intel helps fingers type faster

PowerBlock Universal with ChargeSensor features a low profile design for plugging into power strips and plugs.

ENGADGET: Griffin launches PowerDock 5 multi-device charging platform and ChargeSensor adapters

My last conversation with Adrian Bejan ended on the notion that if design in nature is a universal principle of the material world, then freedom is the key variable that determines how efficiently designs can evolve over time.

FORBES: The Constructal Sessions, Part II: Freedom and Design

Officials had looked at research evidence which "raised questions about the real value of universal 'health checks' based solely on a medical model and helped us design an approach which allows Wales to test something new".

BBC: Mouse and laptop