We typically want our five-bedroom, two-bathroom homes built on big blocks, with big backyards, big kitchens and, yes, big family rooms.

But with those big ambitions can come equally big problems for Australians living with disabilities.

In recent years, Mills Group WA has moved into the world of accessible homes including specialist disability accommodation (SDAs).

Although it is one of the most rewarding things I've ever done in my life, it has also taught me that while we are on a race to build bigger and better homes, we are missing the nuanced little things in a home that are creating major headaches - and costly ones too - for people who are living with a disability.

Australia lags behind many other OECD countries when it comes to industry standard regulations for homes to allow access for people with a disability.

The changes that are required to bring us up to a global leader - like England, for example - aren't onerous, but they would make a huge difference.

Things like wider doorways, having a level access to a shower, or the installation of simple handrails in a bathroom are all small modifications with huge impact.

Mills Group WA recently had the pleasure of working with someone who permanently uses a wheelchair.

She required a carer 24/7 so that she could make bathroom visits in her own home.

In her case, the installation of grab rails in her bathroom and some other small modifications means she now has the complete independence to use her bathroom without any assistance.

That's not just a functional change for her - it makes a big difference to her emotional wellbeing.

Simple, small changes in her house have made a fundamental difference in her life and greatly improved her independence.

For me, it was another important reminder of the importance of these small modifications.

We should try to raise our consideration of the needs of those living with a disability when building not only specialist disability accommodation, but all forms of housing, accommodation and communal spaces.

So while we're thinking bigger, let's also not forget to focus on the details as well.

It's time to take everyone's needs into account.

Gary Mills is director of Mills Group WA.