Intro to Applying Universal Design_UK

Applying Universal Design Michael Laird Architects Page 1

WHAT IS UNIVERSAL DESIGN? SIMPLY PUT: Universal Design: the design and composition of an environment so that is may be accessed, understood and used i. to the greatest possible extent ii. in the most independent and natural manner possible iii. in the widest possible range of situations iv. without the need for adaptation, modification, assistive devices or specialised solutions, by any persons of any age or size or having any particular physical, sensory, mental health or intellectual ability or disability 1

Definition from The Disability Act of 2005.

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UK STATISTICS ON VARYING PHYSICAL ABILITIES:

• Wheelchairs

4.2m

disabled adults in the workforce

• Motorised scooters / chairs • Crutches • Walkers

1.2

• Canes / walking sticks

million

• Guide animals • Prams / strollers

wheelchair users

8%

13.9m of 67.8m in UK are disabled

3.9m

diabetic citizens (>90% type II)

of UK men are colour-blind (0.5% of women)

0 1 n

1i

Accessible design considers those with physical disabilities such as individuals who use the following (either situational, temporarily or permanently):

%

21

ACCESSIBLE DESIGN

left handed

10m + 2m + 10m + with arthritis

visually impaired

hearing impaired

INCLUSIVE DESIGN

Inclusive design aims to create spaces where everyone feels welcome. This means considering the effects of the built environment on the following (and vice versa): • Multiculturalism • Gendered vs. non-gendered spaces • Neurodiversity • Mental health (learning disabilities, depression and anxiety, introverts vs. extroverts, etc.)

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THE 5 PARAMETERS OF UNIVERSAL DESIGN THE BUILDING

INTERIOR SPACE PLAN

FACILITIES

FURNITURE & FIXTURES

SIGNAGE & VISUAL STIMULATION

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THE GUIDING PRINCIPLES WITHIN EACH PARAMETER 2:

1. EQUITABLE USE 2. FLEXIBILITY IN USE 3. SIMPLE & INTUITIVE USE 4. PERCEPTIBLE INFORMATION 5. TOLERANCE FOR ERROR 6. LOW PHYSICAL EFFORT 7. SIZE AND SPACE FOR APPROACH AND USE

Parameters from The Disability Act of 2005.

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PARAMETER 1: THE BUILDING

Things to consider when designing: 1. Are the entrance & building fully accessible?

2. Are the arrival experience and circulation routes relatively the same for all users?

3. Is the “accessible solution” a temporary or specialised approach?

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PARAMETER 2: INTERIOR SPACE PLAN

Things to consider when designing: 1. Are spaces planned in a logical way?

2. Are the facilities and resource locations appropriate?

3. Would any special alterations need to be made to accommodate someone with a disability?

4. Are transitions between spaces - ceilings, walls and floors - clear enough?

5. Is the space gendered?

6. Have the acoustics been appropriately considered?

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PARAMETER 3: FURNITURE & FIXTURES Things to consider when designing: 1. Is the furniture selected functional, not just aesthetically pleasing?

2. Is the furniture selected flexible and able to be easily reconfigured?

3. Are multiple options given in a single space, including space for shorter or taller individuals, wider individuals, elderly individuals who need support getting in and out of seated positions?

4. Are all persons able to access all bespoke joinery, such as the reception desk, tea preps, print services, etc.?

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PARAMETER 4: FACILITIES

Things to consider when designing: 1. Are the planned facilities easily accessible by people of all shapes, sizes & abilities, or at least a combination where everyone is considered?

2. Are the facilities gendered? If yes, why?

3. Consider BS 8300 when designing accessible loos: “Accessible sanitary accommodation ought to be no less pleasant and convenient to use than equivalent non-accessible facilities. It needs to contain all of the amenities that would be provided elsewhere, e.g. mirrors and hairdryers, but without compromising the functionality of the space.”

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PARAMETER 5: SIGNAGE & VISUAL STIMULATION Things to consider when designing: 1. Is signage simple and clear to comprehend, especially to those who are dyslexic, dyspraxic, near- or far-sighted, colour-blind, etc.?

2. Is signage at a readable level to all?

3. Is there diversity / representation in the space’s artwork / marketing?

4. How do the visually impaired interact with the space?

5. Is the colour scheme stimulating, calming, or whatever the intent of the space is? If a specific feel is intended, are options available for those who are uncomfortable in this space?

6. Are there lighting-adjustable spaces for neurodiverse individuals?

7. Are there multiple ways of communication and expression, for example technology, written (writable boards, paper & utensils, etc.) and others?

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BENEFITS OF UNIVERSAL DESIGN

1. A diverse workplace encourages more openminded thinking and expands creativity in approaching tasks and problem-solving. This increases collaboration and efficiency, and widens skill sets.

2. Universal design boosts our intellectual capacity and empathetic thoughts by making us more aware of diversity in the spaces we occupy. These new thought processes strengthen our community and help create healthy bonds.

3. Those previously left out of the design process now feel more empowered and seen, enabling them to participate and use their voice more.

4. Encouraging the “de-Eurocentrification” of design means that we can incorporate more traditional building & design techniques/styles from other cultures.

5. Everyone is welcome everywhere!

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PRACTICE WHAT WE PREACH AT MLA

How do we practice universal design within our own office & culture at MLA?

How might we be more inclusive in our own practice moving forward?

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Edinburgh 5 Forres Street Edinburgh EH3 6DE t: 0131 226 6991

Glasgow 83a Candleriggs Glasgow G1 1LF t: 0141 255 0222

e: edinburgh@michaellaird.co.uk

e: glasgow@michaellaird.co.uk

michaellaird.co.uk