8B — July 29 - August 11, 2011 — Mid
Atlantic Real Estate Journal — Contractors, Owners & Managers
MAREjournal.com
ARCHITECTS/ENGINEERS By Mary G. Severino, AIA, LEED AP, of MGZA
Universal Design Benefits & Challenges
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topic of growing interest to builders, owners, developers and architects, is the subject (and controversy) of “Universal Design.” Universal Design is a philosophy of ‘inclusion,’ for the design of the Mary Severino buildings in which we live, work, play and use on a daily basis. Although the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, has provided the basis
of barrier-free design for over 20 years, the premise of the “Universal Design” movement reaches further, encompassing the needs of all people, whether they are young or old, or whether they experience few difficulties, small challenges or major disabilities. According to NC State University’s “Center for Universal Design” website, “Universal design is the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design,” as attributed to Ron
Mace. How does this concept differ from the ADA? The American’s with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) is a civil rights law that has had great impact on the built environment. It was enacted to protect the rights of people with disabilities, as defined by the law. As most building and facilities-oriented professionals know, this law requires that new and existing facilities are compliant with published accessibility guidelines. The impact of the ADA legislation was substantial, changing the size, configurations and com-
ponents of buildings used by the public. Universal Design encompasses a wider array of issues beyond those tackled by ADA. For example, as our population ages, more people experience diminished levels of vision, hearing or mobility, even though they may be ambulatory, or not be formally classified as “disabled.” Why might this concept be of interest to so many at this time? The number of people over age 65 has been increasing steadily. House Bill #227, introduced in the Delaware State Assembly
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on June 30 of this year, indicates that Delaware’s population aged 65-74 increased 18% over the years 2005-2010, and is expected to increase nearly 25% from 2010-2015. These statistics bring with them the associated concerns of issues that impact people as they age and are susceptible to conditions that may diminish their capabilities leading to larger percentages of people who face disabilities and challenges as they try to function in their every-day environments. Other recent developments have changed in our culture, in particular with respect to housing. The sagging economy has had a tremendous impact on the housing market. A home purchase is a long-term investment as opposed to a shortterm money-maker. In addition to an aging population, we also have returning injured war veterans who need appropriate affordable housing, not to forget other people who may contract illnesses that impact their abilities, regardless of their age. With sensitivity and creativity, architects, designers and developers can and should provide building options that are inclusive within the definition of Universal Design. Options must be made available for consideration at affordable prices. However, the implications on housing are particularly significant. Most homes do not have 36” doors, lever door hardware, or bathrooms with vanity knee space, wheelchair turn-around space, lower kitchen counters or space for future elevators. Without legislative mandates, the development of housing units planned within Universal Design principles will not likely happen. Difficulties can arise with well-intended legislation, particularly at a time of economic difficulty for the construction industry. Delaware House Bill 227 proposes amendments to the Delaware Code by adding a chapter, “Universal Design Standards for Affordable Housing.” This bill would impact the design and bid-selection considerations for buildings constructed using public financial assistance, providing incentive ‘points’ for design using Universal Design guidelines. Although referred to Committee, this bill is noteworthy because of its recognition of the realities continued on page 11B