Universal Ideas are Actually Old: Example One

I have been researching and compiling photos for an upcoming presentation that I am giving at the MS Conference in Woodlands this month. In looking at some of the features that are being hailed as wonderful universal design ideas, which they are, it is intersting to note that many of these design features were presented years ago.

One such feature is the undercounter dishwasher which is referred to now a days as a dishwasher drawer. The ad to the right is from 1961 touting the energy savings and ability to place the smaller dishwasher under or over the counter.

The current dishwasher drawer is available from several manufacturers such as the one on the right. Ads sure look different from 1961 to 2009. But the concept is the same.