Innovation Award for Universal Design

Innovation Award for Universal Design

INDEX PAGE

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INTRODUCTION

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MAIN WINNERS

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2017

VISION OF THE FJORDS

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2014

ST. OLAVS HOSPITAL

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2011

SCANDIC OSLO AIRPORT

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INNOVATION AWARD FOR UNIVERSAL DESIGN 2017

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THE JURY 2017

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CATEGORY WINNERS

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HONORABLE MENTIONS

8 INNOVATION AWARD FOR UNIVERSAL DESIGN 2014 4 50 THE JURY 2014 52

CATEGORY WINNERS

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HONORABLE MENTIONS

8 7 INNOVATION AWARD FOR UNIVERSAL DESIGN 2011 80 THE JURY 2011 82

CATEGORY WINNERS

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HONORABLE MENTIONS

TOWARDS A MORE INCLUSIVE SOCIETY Since 2005 the Norwegian government set an ambitious goal of making Norway inclusive and universally designed for every citizen by launching the first five-year action plan. This was followed by a second action plan in 2009, whereas 14 governmental ministries agreed on the obligations in their sector based on the vision of making Norway universally designed by 2025. Design and Architecture Norway (DOGA) was through the Innovation for all programme requested to establish an award to celebrate innovative and inclusively design solutions. On behalf of the Ministry of Children and Equality, DOGA has been responsible for the framework, execution and project management of the Innovation Award for Universal Design since it was first handed out in 2011.

This national award is unique and recognises designers, architects and companies that have innovatively developed products, services and environments that contribute towards a more inclusive society. The Award honours innovative use of universal design in accordance with a broad definition of architecture and design. It includes architecture, outdoor space and landscapes, transport, interiors and furniture, products, graphic design, service design, interaction design and digital solutions.

“Universal Design belongs at the very centre of our attention, regarding our future society. Universal Design, or Inclusive Design is about equality, sound economics and supports a sustainable society. One of the most important concerns of the Norwegian government is to develop a good society for all”

– States, Linda Hofstad Helleland, Minister of Children and Equality at her opening speech of the event Innovation for All 2018

The projects presented in this brochure are award winners from 2011, 2014 and 2017, from across all sectors of society and design disciplines. For each year the jury consisting of experts in their field, with solid experience and competence who selects a winner in each category and one main winner among all category winners. In this brochure the different juries from each year are presented chronologically after the jury’s verdicts of the three main winners.

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The award is prestigious as a recognition of the practitioners that is reaching further within universal design and innovation and are the lighthouse projects within their category. All the category winners are promoted in media and press, video and case stories about the project with interview’s with those involved in the process can be found at www.inclusivedesign.no (also in Norwegian). The award is an important initiative to build awareness and knowledge about universal design by showing best practice and common success criteria from the winners to inspire and show the value of universal design for individuals, companies and society.

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MAIN WINNER 2017

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VISION OF THE FJORDS

Design: Shipyard: Commissioner:

Torstein Aa Brødrene Aa The Fjords (Fjord1 and Flåm AS)

A REVOLUTION IN BOAT TOURISM The combined efforts of a Norwegian shipping company and an international, leading shipyard within universal sea passenger transport, have lead to our most beautiful fjords becoming accessible for all. This marks a ground-breaking approach to boat design.

The external gangway is an important design concept that gives every passenger an equal experience of the spectacular sights and sounds of the fjords. The silent-running hybrid engine enables the best possible experience of Norwegian nature without any disturbing noise.

JURY’S VERDICT The jury believed that the boat’s radical, groundbreaking design could become truly iconic in time, and that it also presents a novel environmental model for sea passenger transport internationally. As the largest carbon fibre boat in the world, Vision of the Fjords could become an export for the Norwegian shipping industry, in a growing tourist industry that needs environmentally-friendly and silent-running transport.

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MAIN WINNER 2014

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ST. OLAVS HOSPITAL

Architects: Team St. Olav (Nordic Office of Architecture,

Ratio Arkitekter), Trondheimslaget (Studio 4 Arkitekter,

KHR, Per Knudsen Arkitektkontor), Frisk Arkitekter

(Nordic Office of Architecture, Niels Torp Arkitekter,

Pål G. Kavli), Ratio Arkitekter Landscape Architects: Asplan Viak Commissioner: Helsebygg Midt-Norge

THE JURY PRAISES ST. OLAVS HOSPITAL FOR THEIR FOCUS ON THE USER IN ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING Consideration of the patient, family, employees and students has formed the basis for everything from the design of the urban district and buildings to the individual wards. Itis quite an accomplishment that the hospital has succeeded in maintaining an integral user focus in this enormous project, says jury member Knut Hovland. The result is satisfied patients, relatives, students and staff at St. Olavs Hospital. This hospitalin Trondheim has attracted considerable international recognitionfor both the hospital design and as an inclusive urban development project.

Foto: Røe Kommunikasjon // Stein Risstad Larssen

JURY’S VERDICT Healthcare Buildings Central Norway demonstrated a highly innovative approach when ordering and constructing a hospital with such a strong focus on patient

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needs and looking at the design from a holistic perspective. The involvement of patients and relatives as users, in addition to user organisations, was uncompromisingly emphasised as a strategy from day one. Universal design was central throughout the project.

St. Olavs Hospital innovates on several levels. The hospital demonstrates the will to open up the space to the public, ensuring the hospital is not just a destination for the sick, but an asset to the community. The clear layout of the building complexes makes getting around very easy. A cleverly designed reception area gives distinct orientation at the entrance of each building. The recommendations of different users have been included at all levels. Everything from the introduction of single rooms to the organisation of beds and green areas, ample light, air and emphasis on sensory experiences (such as an art programme), all contribute to this being marked as an innovative hospital in the most literal sense.

Wood and other soft and tactile materials have been used throughout the design giving warmth to the interiors. All rooms have a view and the beds are organised as bed clusters, which facilitate better contact with the surroundings and duty room. The different spaces have been carefully designed to interact with the surrounding city whilst maintaining health-focussed spaces such as a long street for ambulances. The various storeys have been carefully programmed according to their function whether they are used as an operating theatre, a meeting place or wards. Consequently, each building is self-contained with access to appropriate services. This provides a better overview, swifter treatment, less patient transportation, and a more connected patient experience.

The landscape architecture also contributes to a vibrant and relaxing organic environment in which people can enjoy, heal, rest or find respite. The hospital is consciously open to the rest of the city through its open green areas, street-level cafes and ‘student-life’ feel that aids the well-being of the surrounding community. The jury commends the management of Healthcare Buildings Central Norway for being true to its original intention of focusing on the patient throughout the process. This was done in uncompromising and interdisciplinary 12

way, including many different participants and contributors. The project scores just as high in terms of urban planning, as it does on the more detailed designs.

Clearly the execution capability, good teamwork and the will to cooperate for a prolonged period of time with all experts, builders and other interest groups were amongst the most important criteria for the success of this esteemed project. The result is a high level of well-being amongst patients, relatives, students and personnel. Today, St. Olavs Hospital attracts international attention, as it sets the tone for modern hospital design.

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MAIN WINNER 2011

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FURNITURE AND INTERIORS SCANDIC OSLO AIRPORT Interior architects: Architects:

Company:

Arkitektarna Krook & Tjäder AB Narud Stokke Wiig Sivilarkitekter AS In cooperation with TUPELO architecture Scandic Oslo Airport, Utstillingsplassen Eiendom, the Norwegian Asthma and Allergy Association (NAAF), Norwegian Federation of Organisations of Disabled People (FFO)

The Scandic Oslo Airport hotel shows how Scandic successfully combines modern architecture and design with the incorporation of universal design. In this project, excellent and consistent quality in the design of products, the interior, architecture and functional solutions results in universal design at the highest level.

JURY’S VERDICT Scandic Oslo Airport sets a new standard in the way that they have integrated universal design. As the first hotel chain to do so, they have considered all user groups in their business strategy. In the jury’s view, the hotel is a fantastic stimulus project, as it shows that competitive advantages and profits can be obtained through full commitment to the inclusion of all types of guests. The hotel exudes quality. The design does not stigmatise anyone and the building is welcoming and beautiful. All guests are met and included with good hospitality; everyone is equal and can participate on the same level in all contexts. Adaptations have been made for the visually impaired, the hard of hearing and the infirm through, for example, easy accessibility, visual alarms, telephones with telecoils, a system for recharging electric wheelchairs and much more. The interior also takes into consideration people with environmental impairments, i.e. asthma, allergies or other sensitivities. For example, there are carpet-free rooms, allergy-friendly textiles, paint and materials with very low gas emissions. The staff use cleaning detergents sparingly and only use unperfumed products. The jury finds that

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practically everything has been done right. The only thing it can fault is poor signage in some areas, some poor lighting and insufficient marking of glass.

The fact that the Norwegian Asthma and Allergy Association wants to nominate the project for the Innovation Award for Universal Design, demonstrates that inclusivity and the environment has been taken seriously. The development of a separate training programme for staff also shows that the hotel has a system and the will to prepare, execute and operate universal design in practice. Scandic has impressed the jury through the innovative way they have resolved practical challenges of inclusive design by going beyond the minimum requirements and including beautiful, functional and thought-out solutions for furniture, fittings and architecture at all levels.

The jury also honores the extensive efforts devoted to planning, configuration of the specification requirements and the execution of the project. The hotel is an outstanding example and conveys an important message to Norwegian businesses. Hopefully, this Scandic hotel will inspire other commercial actors to see the potential of improving their level of quality and increase their market share by investing in universal design.

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INNOVATION AWARD FOR UNIVERSAL DESIGN 2017

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THE JURY 2017 JOHN ARNE BJERKNES Jury leader and category leader for architecture Partner and head of design at Nordic Office of Architecture – Universal design is at its best when it is not noticed. The benchmark for the work within this field has to be the experience one takes for granted when using quality spaces, rooms and buildings, where people of all ages, and with different life situations and functional abilities, can intuitively and directly obtain benefits, and hence contribute towards an easier daily life through positive stimuli and enrichment.

TOM WIDERØE Category leader for interaction design and digital solutions Web developer for FINN.no – Universal design for ICT is concerned with more than reduced functional ability. It is a solid craft that can benefit all types of individuals, entities and machines, both now and in the future.

MARIE HARTMANN Category leader for service design Service designer at Designit – Service design is about designing user experiences over a period of time, often a period of a few days, weeks or months. The problems that customers encounter when using a service are often quite complex and excluding. Therefore, it is particularly important to consider different needs when developing services.

ANNE RITA EGELAND Category leader for graphic design Art director at Ad Are Norge – By generally applying the idea of universal design within graphic design, we can obtain a more inclusive society in a world where the visual impression is becoming increasingly important when 20

conveying an attitude, a product, service, news, concept and other types of information.

ELLEN S. KLINGENBERG Category leader for furniture and interior design Interior architect MNIL and Architect MNAL* – Universal design should be a general principle in all interior architecture, as it is the job of interior architects to take care of the spatial needs of all types of users.

TROND HEGGEM Category leader for landscape architecture Landscape architect at Agraff, Member of the Norwegian Association of Landscape Architects (MNLA) – Universal design increases the focus on individuals who will be living with the results of our plans. It leads to better and more caring facilities.

TOM VAVIK Category leader for product design Professor of Universal Design at the Oslo School of Architecture and Design (AHO) – This award is important to show good examples that highlight equality and accessibility for all. When the designer focuses on the user, and understands and interprets user insight, innovative and including products will emerge.

SØLVI MARIE MYRSETH Category leader for transport Project manager for Bybanen Utbygging (Light Rail Development) – Excellent adaptation and accessible public transport systems are vital in order to offer everyone a good service, regardless of age and functional ability. Besides, thoughtful solutions adapted to those with special needs often lead to a better service for everyone else. *No candidates met the criteria required to win the furniture and interior design category 2017.

Interior Architect, Member of the Norwegian Association of Interior Architects and Furniture Designers (MNIL) and Architect, Member of the National Association of Norwegian Architects (MNAL).

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CATEGORY WINNERS 2017 ARCHITECTURE SOLVIK SERVICE BUILDING Architect: Commissioner:

Flux Arkitekter City of Oslo, Municipal Undertaking for Social Service Buildings, Agency for Real Estate and Urban Renewal, The foundation Solviks Venner, the Norwegian Association of the Blind and Partially Sighted

INCLUSIVE BUILDINGS ON A BUDGET This idea enables people with reduced functional ability to pitch a caravan at Solvik Camping or to use this protected cultural heritage site on a daily basis.

The service building, constructed in 2015, had a low design and construction budget and needed to meet the requirements of universal architectural design that was appropriate for vulnerable user groups. It was commissioned by the City of Oslo with user input from The foundation Solviks Venner and guidance from the Norwegian Association of the Blind and Partially Sighted.

JURY’S VERDICT The collaboration with visually impaired people gave the architects a unique starting point. By consciously designing the architectural elements around their needs, they created a solution that actually functions better for everyone.

Nothing was assumed, but everything was discovered through user involvement.

As a result it feels appealing as well as natural for the families of the primary user group, the elderly and other visitors. The solution also disproves the myth that universal design is costly and technically complicated.

The use of robust and defined colours in natural and tactile materials is very attractive. Good downlighting arrangements have been integrated. Defined functional sectioning of the rooms is supported by a defining use of colours and tactile signs. Universal design is integrated throughout the facility using impressively few, but very creative tools. This by itself was deemed to be innovative.

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Good solutions do not depend on size or budgets. Transformational ideas can be developed on a small-scale, but have immense impact on larger-scale projects. Solvik is an example of how low-technology design can be transferable, regardless of size and complexity. It is simple, energy-saving and inexpensive to maintain.

With an increasingly diverse population in terms of age and ability, changing room facilities at public bathing spots and recreation facilities are a future challenge. This design idea clearly demonstrates that universal design can deliver an inclusive main solution that is truly better for all.

This is a small-scale project with big potential impact.

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LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE HAMAREN ACTIVITY PARK Project management: Nature-based business development Faun Naturforvaltning AS Commissioner: Municipality of Fyresdal

INCLUSIVE PUBLIC HEALTH IN A SMALL MUNICIPALITY The Municipality of Fyresdal with its large adjoining natural landscapes wanted to create a centrally located and easily accessible activity park for everyone.

The park surrounds a kindergarten, schools, and a care home for older people.

Physical activity within nature is known to effectively improve health and wellbeing, so the park has become a social gathering point for all the population.

JURY’S VERDICT The activity park is surrounded by a scenery of mountain peaks and stunning nature, which is not accessible for everyone. It was commendable that such a small municipality seriously considered the importance of offering centrally located activities that can gather all the residents, regardless of their health and physical fitness. Areas on the picturesque headland were inaccessible before the gangway was built. The jury commended the results that the municipality achieved with limited funds. The opinions of people with diverse abilities were heard and many of their wishes were taken into account.

In terms of massive user impact, the project was exemplary. Amongst other things, the build involved local craftsmen as well as the municipality’s business park. This gave a sense of ownership and resulted in a high quality of delivery.

The kindergarten was allowed to make the information signs and young people acquired ownership of the lean-tos, the BMX park and other solutions through ideas such as Ungt Entrepenørskap (Young Entrepreneurship).

The reputation of the municipality has improved and neighbouring politicians have visited many times. It has become a wonderful mingling park that gathers the residents of the area, and it has been substantially adapted for people with 26

reduced functional ability, children, the elderly and ethnic diversity. The public health perspective is central. Hamaren Activity Park shows that universal design is about considering and caring for all citizens, whether they live in the locality or are visitors to the region.

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GRAPHIC DESIGN AFTENPOSTEN JUNIOR Design: Redink Commissioner: Aftenposten Junior

A GRAPHIC DESIGN INNOVATION FOR CHILDREN Aftenposten Junior was launched to meet an increasing demand in creating news for children and youth. The solution was a quality product on par with the best media available to adults, except that it was designed with children in mind.

Using the tools of graphic design, this newspaper has become a distinct success and is being embraced by children and adults alike. Aftenposten Junior is currently the ninth largest newspaper in Norway and continues to grow.

JURY’S VERDICT In the increasingly complicated and competitive world of the media, there is growing demand for newspapers that can be simple and easy to understand whilst presenting the news in an attractive and enticing manner for the reader.

Aftenposten Junior is an authentic newspaper for young people, and has been a pathfinder design intenationally in conveying news to this target group. The newspaper is a good example, showing that graphic design and thoughtful presentation of messages can be consciously used to make editorial content easily available to everyone when a target group’s needs and aspirations are taken seriously. Today, the newspaper is widely read, by Norwegian speakers and nonnative speakers.

The overall quality of the design and aesthetics is excellent. The visual techniques, the graphic design and accessible language, all help to explain complicated issues in an understandable way that does not compromise good journalism.

Several of the visual techniques are well-known in sales promoting marketing, but have been adapted for a socially useful project. The project shows how Inclusive Design can help address challenges associated with communication across cultural and ethnically diverse communities. The design has produced results with an impressive doubling of the circulation figures in the print newspaper segment.

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PRODUCT DESIGN SOUND ABSORBING FELT Design:

Rom & Tonik

TACKLING A GROWING NOISE PROBLEM FeltRoll is an acoustic felt made of 100% coarse sheep wool from Mongolia, where the surplus product is not otherwise used. The material has been developed into a sound absorbing interior product that readily absorbs unwanted acoustic noise without becoming an intrusive element within an interior.

This sound absorbing wall felt improves the atmosphere for everyone, regardless their hearing ability.

JURY’S VERDICT In many new builds and spaces, reverberation can lead to unwanted noise and causing discomfort and stress. Modern architecture has done little to solve this growing problem, and hard surfaces can actually increase it. FeltRoll is a simple and attractive product that tackles this challenge.

FeltRoll is very discreet and therefore easy to integrate into most interiors. It is easy to assemble and apply to one wall at a time. The surface has an exquisite, concrete-like structure with some slight coarseness that absorbs a large amount of acoustic noise. It comes in natural grey, but can be supplied in other finishes upon request. The wool can be vacuumed for effective cleaning. It is highly stain-resistant and antibacterial due to the natural lanolin content, and is also allergy friendly.

The concept is innovative as it solves an acute and growing problem in a simple, flexible and anonymous way. Manufacturing of the product also provides jobs and the utilisation of surplus materials in Mongolia. Entrepreneurs rarely take on the challenge of acoustic design, and this in itself was seen to be praiseworthy.

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TRANSPORT VISION OF THE FJORDS Design: Shipyard: Commissioner:

Torstein Aa Brødrene Aa The Fjords (Fjord1 and Flåm AS)

A BOAT WITH A VIEW FOR ALL The sightseeing boat ‘Vision of the Fjords’ is the first boat to be built according to the new ‘Seasight’ concept of Brødrene Aa AS, which was created based on inclusive design principles. External ramps and an 80 per cent window surface in passenger areas makes the boat extremely accessible for everyone, including people with a range of abilities and needs. The boat is a hybrid and one-hundred per cent emission-free when run on battery-power making it ideal to sail in the UNESCO protected waters of Nærøyfjorden.

JURY’S VERDICT Very few companies have considered boats in this way before. It is a radical and pioneering design that could easily become a modern-day icon. The boat’s unique aesthetic comes from its associations with waves, the Troll Ladder and nature trails with many design details improving the performance and use of the vessel, such as the external gangway that innovatively solves the problem of loading passengers with a range of mobility. People embark and disembark using ramps, which help tackle problems with the height variation on high and low tides.

As suggested by its name, ‘Vision of the Fjords’ is a sightseeing boat with a solution that allows all 400 passengers to use the boat and enjoy the view side by side, regardless of whether they are in a wheelchair or have other mobility needs. Large window surfaces also provide a panoramic view for those who wish to remain inside. All counters and loudspeaker systems have hearing loops, and the eating area has also been created to meet universal design standards. The boat is intuitively easy to orientate oneself around the interior, with wayfinding elements that all tourists can use regardless of their functional ability.

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The design felt naturally inclusive and aesthetically pleasing with defined walking zones and spacious furnishing.

The boat is also pioneering in the focus on sustainable construction and operation. ‘Vision of the Fjords’ is the largest carbon fibre boat in the world. In addition, no other sightseeing boat of this size has previously been built with the potential for a hundred per cent emission-free propulsion engines. The boat can therefore enter areas with the most stringent environmental restrictions and with its a silent electric hybrid engine, it also addresses escalating noise problems. ‘Vision of the Fjords’ could become an export design for the Norwegian boat-building industry in a growing tourist industry that needs environmentally friendly and silent-running transport options.

Overall, ‘Vision of the Fjords’ has both pioneering design and application. It treats all passengers equally and is an inclusive and sustainable model for sea passenger transport.

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SERVICE DESIGN KOLONIAL.NO

Design:

Kolonial.no

ONLINE SHOPPING FOR EVERYONE Kolonial.no developed an online store that enables everyone to buy food. With an adaptive voice feature, it is a small revolution for the blind and partially sighted people, who previously relied on others having to tell them where to find particular products in a store. Having a complete supermarket available at home also benefits people who are ill, older people and busy families with young children amongst many others.

JURY’S VERDICT The online shopping service, established by entrepreneurs rather than large supermarket chains, provides an extremely good user experience that improves the lives of many people, including those with special needs. Many other similar solutions have been tried before, but Kolonial.no has met with success because its service is user-friendly at every level. The store’s design has been intuitively built up over time based on a start-up mentality. The service was then further developed based on insights with real people. During the design phases and test rounds, they placed as much importance on their suppliers and drivers as they did the users. When employees obtain ownership of the service, the quality of the service also improves.

The contact interfaces of the service have been thought through so that they are seamless - from the moment the products are put into the online basket and the order details are received via a text message to delivery by committed drivers.

This has resulted ina unique, joined-up solution supported by trusted brands.

The voice feature of the service functions so well that it has become easier for people with low vision to order grocery products online, something that they could not previously do. An additional advantage of the service is that it has implemented a bottle return scheme. Kolonial.no has grown to become the leading online grocery shopping service in Norway, and is the preferred choice of all types of customers.

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INTERACTION DESIGN AND DIGITAL SOLUTIONS FINN.NO Design:

FINN.no

NORWAY’S LARGEST MARKETPLACE GOES THE EXTRA MILE FINN.NO is a service that almost everyone in Norway has heard about. By using new technology, the solution has increased its accessibility in an existing, competitive market. Users have been given a simple, safe and engaging way to buy and sell things. It is also popular with those who just want to keep up-todate with various services offered on the largest digital marketplace in Norway.

In cooperation with a blind employee, and the Norwegian Association of the Blind and Partially Sighted, the app has been equipped with a voice feature that is now frequently used by blind and partially sighted people.

JURY’S VERDICT Overall, the FINN.NO website and app now has a more accessible service for everyone. FINN.NO innovated by taking advantage of rapid technological change, and over the years, developing an entire ecosystem of services that they continually improve through further development. Images and icons are used consistently throughout. The design patterns are recognisable with easily understandable microtext and links. The image displays are responsive, the text is self-explanatory and the app effortlessly remembers the task started.

This type of digitally-focussed universal design is ongoing as FINN.NO continues to make the service accessible to as many people as possible. In terms of user friendliness, both products score high and compared to many other digital products and service on the market today.

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HONORABLE MENTION FURNITURE AND INTERIORS FOOD AND DEPARTMENT STORE IN GRÜNERLØKKA Architect and interior architect: Ledsten Arkitekter AS Facade: Element Arkitektur AS Commissioner: Agra Foods AS og Mills DA

A WORKPLACE THAT GOES THE EXTRA MILE The Mills administration was formerly spread between several buildings.

The earlier mayonnaise factory in Sofienberggata 19 has been transformed into Mills headquarters with offices, product development facilities and a demonstration kitchen for visitors. The key elements of the project were: colocalisation; transparent organisation and planning; visibility and accessibility at street level; maximum daylight penetration; and lighting towards the park at night.

THE JURY’S HONORABLE MENTION The private builder and interior architect took universal design seriously, including accessibility as a natural and basic consideration in all aspects of the refurbishment. The position in the urban environment, the general use of the building and details of the interior have all been taken into account.

The former dense factory facade has become completely transparent bringing lucidity and life to the street. The building front, which provides greatly needed lighting in the park, boasts a high quality architectural solution and also incorporates the neighbourhood ambience.

In terms of accessibility, the building presented huge challenges. These have largely been addressed, but some parts of the building are still not accessible to all.

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PRODUCT DESIGN EASY-TO-OPEN JAM JAR LID Design: Crown Packaging Polska Sp. z.o.o Commissioner: Orkla Foods Norge AS

AN EVERYDAY PROBLEM SIMPLY SOLVED Jam jar lids are considered hard to open, not only by the elderly and those with special needs, but by everyone regardless of age or functional ability. Orkla Foods launched a user friendly easy-to-open lid, a novel and ingenious solution in Norway. The ‘Orbit’ lid was developed by Crown lid suppliers in 2011.

THE JURY’S HONORABLE MENTION Everyday packaging is a problem for most people. The screw lid has been placed on many products since its invention. Sometimes the small, but innovative solutions for the general public deserve an honorary review, especially in a trade that does not pay much attention to universal design.

Orkla’s screw lid greatly improves ordinary jam jars potentially benefitting everyone. The design scores high in a number of areas. It is intuitive, traditional and recognisable because it looks the same as before and everyone knows how to use it. This idea should inspire innovation in other everyday packaging.

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INNOVATION AWARD FOR UNIVERSAL DESIGN 2014

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THE JURY 2014 KNUT HOVLAND Jury leader and category leader for architecture Architect, Founder and CEO TUPELO – This award is important because it demonstrates that very exciting things are taking place in a discipline in which the focus tends to be more on limitations rather than opportunities.

RACHEL K. B. TROYE Category leader for graphic design Professor, Pro-Rector Institute of Design The Oslo School of Architecture and Design (AHO) – Graphic design affects our daily lives to a tremendous degree, from shower gel to bread topping, from signs that point the way to apps for buying tram tickets. If these are not adapted and accessible for everyone, we create an everyday life that is frustrating and without dignity for many.

WILHELM JOYS ANDERSEN Category leader for interaction design and digital solutions Developer and Founder WJA – The Internet has matured. What was once a playground for those with special interests is now a fundamental infrastructure for our society. It must be accessible to all!

KARI BERGO Category leader for landscape architecture Landscape architect, Partner and CEO Østengen & Bergo AS

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– Landscape architecture creates public outdoor spaces where everyone can spend time and relax. Needless to say, we need to make these spaces accessible for all.

JAN WALTER PARR Category leader for service design Chief Creative Officer EGGS Design – Making services accessible and attractive for everyone is prerequisite for a good customer experience and offers the possibility to gain a competitive advantage.

DAVE VIKØREN Category leader for furniture and interior design Professor Department of Design University of Bergen – Our ability to experience, perceive and function is directly linked to the quality of our surroundings. These should not only be functional, but functional for everyone!

NINA TØGARD Category leader for transport Profile Manager NSB – Investments in transportation are meant to be longlasting. If we don’t do it right the first time, we’ll have to play catch-up for a long time.

PER FINNE Category leader for product design Industrial Designer Per Finne Design – The focus should always be on the user when designing a product, which is why it is so important that we have a good understanding of who the user is.

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CATEGORY WINNERS FURNITURE AND INTERIORS BERGEN UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, KRONSTAD Architects and interior architects:

Commissioner:

HLM arkitektur as, Metropolis Arkitektur & Design AS Statsbygg

A SOCIAL AND PLEASURABLE LEARNING SPACE The college at Kronstad in Bergen is a new build, but it has also transformed old buildings, preserved the university’s cultural heritage and developed a substantial area of outdoor space. The principles of universal design have been integrated into the architectural elements to ensure that the entire college accommodates the interests of students, staff and visitors.

JURY’S VERDICT The college stands as a well-executed pioneering project within the design of an educational establishment. A conscious strategy for a universal design was employed and this was used throughout the process. The different rooms and halls are both exciting and varied through the way in which volumes, materials and constructions have been used. Common areas are both visually stimulating and functionally inviting.

The jury considers the acoustics and soundscapes to be particularly good, for example, in the shared canteen, library and social spaces. Orderly and limited use of emergency pathway lighting enables the most important directions on the premises to be seen without being intrusive on a daily basis. Some elements, traces and constructions from previous eras have been maintained and function well in combination with the new architectural design. Whilst thresholds have been reduced, good lighting is everywhere. Even books are illuminated in the library.

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The jury endorses the fact that the universal design of the building is so well integrated and adapted to cognitive needs that it invites people to actively use the college – including outside of normal opening hours. The spaces no longer resemble an institution, but a sense of calm prevails, even when the common areas are full of students. Since there is a good selection of furniture and high quality fixtures and fittings, the students can sit, walk, lie down, mingle or work as desired.

The jury finds it innovative when a university college takes universal design and uses it to satisfy different social preferences and abilities. Student representatives have positive comments about the building, and the college has already noticed a marked increase in the amount of time students spend at the college.

The jury observed the presence of colour-coded information and direction boards in the reception, however even more prominence is desirable.

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Foto: ®Foto Pål Hoff

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Foto: ®Foto Pål Hoff

Foto: ®Foto Pål Hoff

INTERACTION DESIGN AND DIGITAL SOLUTIONS SKATTEETATEN.NO Comissioner and design:

Skatteetaten

A WEBSITE THAT CONVEYS COMPLEXITY IN A SIMPLE WAY SKATTETATEN.NO (Tax Norway) is a web site that aims to convey rights and obligations connected to many complex regulations. At the same time, it has to meet the needs of a large range of target groups. Besides information and services, the website functions as a portal for all the services offered by Tax Norway in Altinn.

JURY’S VERDICT Tax Norway started with a challenging ambition: in addition to fulfilling the formal requirements, they focused on making the content available to people who are cognitively challenged. Most people experience obstacles when dealing with the Norwegian tax system, for example, in connection with tax returns, so this rethink of the website will be welcomed by everyone.

Their methods were innovative, as they took into account the needs of users to receive serious and complex information in a comprehensible way. They worked explicitly on language to make it clear and concise. Users are also guided through easy-to-use calculators and guides that eliminate unnecessary steps in the process.

The way that Tax Norway listened to users when prioritising was exemplary.

Based on user surveys, statistics, feedback and the input of case officers, they worked diligently to improve the website. In addition to other things, they have used Google search words, workshops, questions on social media, search and visitor statistics, “Did you find what you were looking for” boxes, micro-testing and the input of those who respond to telephone calls. When combined, they form an excellent basis for the group to make the right decisions. This is an excellent initiative and one that we hope Tax Norway will continue, as it is a step in the right direction.

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LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE ST. OLAVS HOSPITAL Landscape architect: Asplan Viak Commissioner: Helsebygg Midt-Norge

A BLUE-GREEN OASIS IN A HOSPITAL ENVIRONMENT St. Olavs Hospital has been developed as a suburb of Trondheim for the last fifteen years. The buildings consist of several units with good outdoor space and walkway situated between them. The outdoor space has been designed with park-like greenery that flows organically through the buildings comprising gardens, roof gardens, streets, parks and squares, including river banks that slope down to Nidelva River. Such space is universally designed with health-promoting blue-green oasis that appeal to the senses and provide a potential outlet for rehabilitation and relaxation.

JURY’S VERDICT The outdoor spaces stand alongside the building complexes. The blue-green surroundings stimulate physical and mental health, which is particularly important in a hospital environment. With an interesting and remarkable design approach that involved different users, quality prevails at all levels.

The universally designed solutions are incorporated as an integral part of the process rather than as an add-on. Moving around outside is easy due to connected pathways and good lighting. The emergency pathway lighting has a natural feel, is logical and is robust. The furnished areas are tidy and user-friendly with varied and ample seating, adapted pathways and inclines, and heated street lamps on the main pavement within the specific area. Plants have been selected with special consideration of those with allergies, and are approved by the Norwegian Asthma and Allergy Association. Exercise is possible within a number of safe frameworks that create well-being and incorporate many sensory surprises such as artwork.

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Foto: Trond Heggem

The jury commends the innovative use of including universal design as an integral part of the plan from the overarching goals right down to the design details.

On the whole, the landscape architecture is full of diversity in terms of space, experiences and mood. It aims to create well-being, is calming and health-promoting, and it contributes to a particularly inclusive and appealing hospital environment that gives added value to all: patients, employees, relatives, visitors, students and neighbours alike.

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Foto: Ingvild Aarset

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Foto: Røe Kommunikasjon // Stein Risstad Larssen

SERVICE DESIGN MELIN MEDICALS Designers: User Organisation: Commissioner:

Smedegaard & Weis Norwegian Association of the Blind and Partially Sighted Melin Medical

FROM A SINGLE TERMINAL TO AN EFFICIENT PATIENT CLOUD This company aims to develop the most efficient healthcare payment and patient administration systems. Consequently it has placed considerable emphasis on universal design as the foundation for its business undertakings. The payment service is intended to be easy for everyone to use and beneficial for both patients and health personnel alike.

JURY’S VERDICT Melin Medicals is a payment service for health services via a payment terminal that is aimed at all users. It also facilitates the work of doctors and clinical staff.

The solution was developed based on lead user surveys and through cooperation with organisations such as the Norwegian Association of the Blind and Partially Sighted. The terminal is connected to an underlying ‘patient cloud’ with integrated solutions to access information such as medical records. The company aims to develop a range of complete solutions for GP practices.

The payment service is extremely functional with a good interface for both health personnel and patients. It is sympathetic towards users with different types of challenges, i.e. a busy doctor who does not want any more systems or patients with poor eyesight, wheelchair users, or those who cannot pay. The system is automated and simple, thus enabling valuable time to be spent on the patient.

Several types of shelf products, put together by Melin Medical, are combined on the actual terminal and, in some cases, more products are included to best serve the patient. The screen-based user interface is simple and intuitive. Everyone accesses the solution in the same way, but changes are then made as the system is adapted to each user. Examples of adaptations are: colour codes; font size and number size; high contrast mode; and voice sensors for speech detection.

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The solution therefore has a multi-modal interface and error tolerance – two important criteria of universal design. This is a complete service proposal with huge potential to positively impact the Norwegian healthcare system.

In a self-service society, the Melin Medical payment service is a prime example of how one can give the feeling of control back to people. The designers and business developers have gone further than simply fulfilling the minimum requirements of universal design. They have used existing systems and included aspects to create an ingenious and complete solution.

The jury would also like to commend an additional service, namely the integration of ethical debt collection. The decision is passed to the doctor, who can stop or extend deadlines according to a personal, individual assessment.

Melin Medical has demonstrated strong growth from a turnover of NOK 1 million to NOK 70 million in two years. The jury commends the designers for using universal design as an important and stimulating success factor during the innovation process. This is a perfect example of how universal design can pay off. Melin Medical has a huge potential in the future.

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ARCHITECTURE ST. OLAVS HOSPITAL Architects:

Commissioner:

Team St. Olav (Nordic Office of Architecture, Ratio Arkitekter), Trondheimslaget (Studio 4 Arkitekter, KHR, Per Knudsen Arkitektkontor), Frisk Arkitekter (Nordic Office of Architecture, Niels Torp Arkitekter, PĂĽl G. Kavli), Ratio Arkitekter Helsebygg Midt-Norge

A HOSPITAL THAT TRANSFORMED INTO AN INNOVATIVE SUBURB ON THE TERMS OF PATIENTS St. Olavs Hospital in Trondheim has undergone massive development during the last 15 years and now stands as one of the largest workplaces in the region. The hospital has an extensive number of patients, students and visitors. Its central location and easy accessibility is sustainable and an attribute to city life.

JURY’S VERDICT Healthcare Buildings Central Norway demonstrated a highly innovative approach when ordering and constructing a hospital with such a strong focus on patient needs and looking at the design from a holistic perspective. The involvement of patients and relatives as users, in addition to user organisations, was uncompromisingly emphasised as a strategy from day one. Universal design was central throughout the project.

St. Olavs Hospital innovates on several levels. The hospital demonstrates the will to open up the space to the public, ensuring the hospital is not just a destination for the sick, but an asset to the community. The clear layout of the building complexes makes getting around very easy. A cleverly designed reception area gives distinct orientation at the entrance of each building. The recommendations of different users have been included at all levels. Everything from the introduction of single rooms to the organisation of beds and green areas, ample light,

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air and emphasis on sensory experiences (such as an art programme), all contribute to this being marked as an innovative hospital in the most literal sense.

Wood and other soft and tactile materials have been used throughout the design giving warmth to the interiors. All rooms have a view and the beds are organised as bed clusters, which facilitate better contact with the surroundings and duty room. The different spaces have been carefully designed to interact with the surrounding city whilst maintaining health-focussed spaces such as a long street for ambulances. The various storeys have been carefully programmed according to their function whether they are used as an operating theatre, a meeting place or wards. Consequently, each building is self-contained with access to appropriate services. This provides a better overview, swifter treatment, less patient transportation, and a more connected patient experience.

The landscape architecture also contributes to a vibrant and relaxing organic environment in which people can enjoy, heal, rest or find respite. The hospital is consciously open to the rest of the city through its open green areas, street-level cafes and ‘student-life’ feel that aids the well-being of the surrounding community. The jury commends the management of Healthcare Buildings Central Norway for being true to its original intention of focusing on the patient throughout the process. This was done in uncompromising and interdisciplinary way, including many different participants and contributors. The project scores just as high in terms of urban planning, as it does on the more detailed designs.

Clearly the execution capability, good teamwork and the will to cooperate for a prolonged period of time with all experts, builders and other interest groups were amongst the most important criteria for the success of this esteemed project. The result is a high level of well-being amongst patients, relatives, students and personnel. Today, St. Olavs Hospital attracts international attention, as it sets the tone for modern hospital design.

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Foto: Helsebygg Midt-Norge // Erik Børseth

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Foto: Røe Kommunikasjon.

Foto: Synlig design og foto AS

TRANSPORT DESIGN THE BERGEN LIGHT RAIL Architect: Arkitektgruppen Cubus Designers: Fuggibaggi, Kontrapunkt Project management: Norconsult Commissioner: Bergensprogrammet (Hordaland fylkeskommune,

Bergen kommune, Statens vegvesen)

SETTING NEW TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS The City of Bergen and Hordaland County Council ordered a completely new light rail system in Year 2000, but the actual construction work did not start until 2008. The service opened in 2010 and became the first light rail in Norway to meet the requirements of universal design, one of the prerequisites of the project. The light rail system is one of Bergen’s most visible brands with its high socially-inclusive status. It has become the public’s preferred mode of transport.

The light rail system impacts the city landscape and the population, and allows everyone to participate in city life.

JURY’S VERDICT Bergen Light Rail aimed high and achieved its goals. It is one of the most successful planned upgrades in a Norwegian city since the war. It criss-crosses through the city like a vital nerve with frequent stops at a linked network of stations. As a result, it lays the foundations for the future urban development of Bergen. In a short period of time, the number of passengers has surpassed the initial projections – an achievement in itself.

The system has a simple, distinct universal design throughout. The writing on information screens is large and pleasing to the eye with good contrasting colours that are clear, but discreet. It appears visually organised with few advertisements and other distractions. The design has been fully adapted to the City of Bergen’s unique architecture and culture with a simple, relaxed style that is in harmony with the aesthetics of the city. The routes extend over patches of grass,

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platforms and pedestrianised streets. In addition to other examples of positive impact, Bergen Light Rail’s new routes have also resulted in the establishment of a 1960s-style street of shops.

Bergeners were given a sense of ownership of the light rail at an early stage through a competition to give it a name. The public engaged and were quick to use the rail uttering the motto, “Get the tram!” The jury endorses the transparent and excellent interdisciplinary cooperation – which is innovative in itself.

Due to a conscious commitment to people-centred design at all levels, the solution is user friendly and the universal design approach has been well-maintained. The light rail has substantially helped the inhabitants of the city to travel independently, regardless of their functional capabilities. As a result, Bergen Light Rail exemplifies how consideration of a few can benefit all. It started out as a dramatic attack on Bergen’s city landscape with many protesters, but it turned into a successful local and political urban development project despite the setbacks. This marks this project as both brave and innovative.

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HONORABLE MENTION INFORMATION AND INTERACTION DESIGN (ICT) M.FINN.NO Comissioner and design: Finn.no

EVERYONE CAN FIND SOMETHING ON M.FINN.NO FINN.no has launched a new service for hand-held media: M.FINN.no. This is a mobile service for everyone, and it is therefore paramount that every aspect of it is universally designed, especially platforms that support keyboard navigation and screen readers. When designing the new service, FINN.no contacted the Norwegian Association for the Blind and Partially Sighted for advice, input and guidance.

JURY’S VERDICT This HONORABLE MENTION is given by the jury in recognition of the significance of the work done on m.finn.no. The content of most web sites is more or less static, however M.FINN.NO has included non-static elements that make their service more universally designed. Many ingenious steps have been taken to make it easy and simple for everyone to use the web pages.

The pages are scalable and the targeted links that are visible during keyboard navigation are clearly marked. Menu navigation is facilitated by quick links to screen readers. Values such as search filters can also be used with the aid of sliders or manual keystrokes. All this has been accomplished by FINN.no in an exemplary manner. We would like to commend the internal grassroots group of enthusiastic developers and designers, who are leading the way within the organisation. There is no better guarantee for the production of good work than professional pride and the freedom to do what is right.

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LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE CLIMATE PARK 2469 Landscape architecture: Landskapsfabrikken AS Consulting Engineer: Dr. Ing Techn. Apeland AS Comissions: Klimapark 2469 AS, Norsk Fjellmuseum Contributing: Høgskolen i Gjøvik, Oppland fylkeskommune,

Lom kommune, Plan og miljø

MAKING RUGGED NATURE ACCESSIBLE TO ALL The aim of Klimapark 2469 AS was to give everyone the opportunity to experience unique cultural monuments and different experiences in an authentic mountain environment.

Using the road to Juvasshytta Mountain Lodge as the starting point, the climate park wanted a 1.1 km universally designed pathway up to the ice tunnel. The stretch of terrain is essentially made up of inaccessible stone runs with some demanding slopes. In addition, the construction had to withstand extreme weather conditions and movement in permafrost.

JURY’S VERDICT This HONORABLE MENTION is given by the jury in recognition of the way in which the pathway harmonises with the landscape through the use of calming and contrasting colours that blend with the surrounding nature. The jury appreciates the innovative solution that enables more people to experience the high mountains and climate park - an area of interest for the general public, schoolchildren and researchers. Intervention in the nature was kept to a minimum and it is reversible.

The landscape architects drew inspirations from the natural surroundings and let this be their inspiration. As a result, the lack of railings, benches and other public furniture has led to an appealing minimalistic, unobtrusive and compassionate aesthetic that puts nature at the forefront. It is visually stunning and makes rugged nature accessible. This is a minor intervention with a magnificent impact that the jury can only describe as poetic and powerful. The strength of the project is that a few changes can be significant for many people. This type of universal de74

sign intervention in nature is unique in an international context. In brief: A piece of Norway is now accessible to everyone.

Foto: Landskapsfabrikken

The jury would like to point out that the unavailable, but already planned start of the pathway from the main road is a drawback. In this respect, the project is not regarded as finished or universally designed even though it is already in use.

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INNOVATION AWARD FOR UNIVERSAL DESIGN 2011

Innovasjonsprisen for unoversell utforming

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THE JURY 2011 GURO FJELLANGER Jury leader Politician for the Liberal Party

DAVE VIKØREN Category leader for furniture and interior design Professor Department of design University of Bergen

EIRIN RYENG Category leader transportation Associate Professor Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Norwegian University of Science and Technology

LIV KARI ESKELAND Category leader architecture CEO in Link Architecture and Politician in the Conservative Party

MARIANNE STØREN BERG Category leader product design Senior Usability Specialist Costumer Experience Unit Telenor

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MIKAEL SNAPRUD Category leader service and interaction design CEO Tingtun AS and Associate Professor Department of ICT University of Agder

OLE CHRISTIAN BERGAN Category leader graphic design Designer and Founder in Moving Minds and Associate Professor Department of Design Norwegian University of Science and Technology

SIGMUND ASMERVIK Category leader landscape architecture Professor Institute for Landscape planning Norwegian University of Life and Sciences

GUNN SCHMITTHENNER Co-leader architecture Partner and Architect in POULSSON PRAN AS

PER FINNE Co-leader product design Former Associate Professor in Product Design Norwegian University of Technology and Science.

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CATEGORY WINNERS 2011 INDUSTRIAL DESIGN BLANKE ARK - ELECTION EQUIPMENT Designers: Kadabra Produktdesign, Innovativoli

Industridesign, Blueroom Designstudio Commissioner: Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development,

Norsk Form (Foundation for Design and Architecture in Norway)

There are more than 3,000 polling stations in the 430 municipalities in Norway, but the conditions have not always been ideal to enable everyone to vote. Until today, each municipality developed its own solution for voting equipment, since there is no national standard. Blanke Ark represents a jointly and universally designed solution that also simplifies implementation and reduces costs.

JURY’S VERDICT The new voting equipment solution takes into account all the requirements for voter access and accessibility. It embraces a formal simplicity that, thanks to a simple visual organisation, removes the somewhat random ‘voluntariness’ of the polling stations. The colour orange is used logically and clearly as a signal colour on all surfaces and elements of the visual profile. All signage, guide lines and printed matter have easy-to-read fonts and good contrast. The design language is functional and timeless, without any cultural or decorative signals. The value-neutral aspects of the solution emphasise a respect for diversity and help make this a universal design of excellent quality.

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ARCHITECTURE MARGARINFABRIKKEN KINDERGARTEN Architect: NAV AS Architects Landscape architect: STUDIO hp AS Company: Municipality of Olso, Sagene District Developer: Municipal Undertaking for Social Service Buildings

A NEW KINDERGARTEN IN OLD FACTORY PREMISES IN OSLO The considerable need for kindergarten places in the centre of Oslo has been met with a somewhat sensational restoration of the former premises of Margarinfabrikken Norge, which has been integrated with new buildings and adapted outdoor areas. The kindergarten is controversial due to its size, with around 130 employees working with close to 500 children.

JURY’S VERDICT The Margarinfabrikken kindergarten is a pioneering project that is unique in Norway due to the size and usage of a building listed on the Cultural Heritage Management Office’s ‘yellow’ list (municipal cultural monument). The project shows how the renovation of existing buildings can result in universally designed solutions that are integrated into the architecture as a natural part of the original structures. Both the existing and new buildings in phase 1 of the construction project have well thought-out details. The original design has been maintained in a playful manner, with materials and exciting colours that create a nice contrast and distinctive zones. Open rooms with plenty of sunlight and good dimensions have been carefully integrated and the graphic design has a logical layout in which colours and graphics serve as digital coding for the various departments.

The graphic (pedagogical) elements are self-explanatory in the form of simple symbols that are visually aesthetic, while at the same time serving as guide lines on columns and walls. The design is both long-term and integral in terms of the usage of the buildings and outdoor area. The jury pointed out that the universal

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design is innovative in that it takes an integral approach to the challenges posed by an existing and preservation-worthy site of this size. The Margarinfabrikken kindergarten is a deserving finalist for the Innovation Award for Universal Design, in particular due to its degree of accessibility and successful integration of sound and acoustics. In spite of ongoing improvements to the entrance and insufficient marking of glass on the automatic entrance doors, this is an excellent example of how good solutions for universal design can also be integrated into older buildings.

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TRANSPORT HIGH-SPEED PASSENGER FERRIES, ROGALAND Shipyard: Company: Commissioner:

Brødrene Aa AS Tide Sjø Holding AS Rogaland Kollektivtrafikk FKF - Kolumbus (public transport)

CATAMARAN FOR EFFICIENT PASSENGER TRANSPORT When announcing the new tender for high-speed passenger ferries in Ryfylke (with start-up in May 2007), one of the requirements made by the contracting party, Rogaland Kollektivtrafikk FKF, was that the new boats must have a universal design. At that time, no specifications were available for the universal design of this type of passenger boat, so the contracting party established its own definition.

JURY’S VERDICT The high-speed ferries in Rogaland have set the standard for universally designed high-speed passenger ferries in Norway and other countries and elements from the first boats designed have already been established as the standard.

The passenger ferries were successfully designed to enable all types of passengers to travel independently. For example, all facilities are located on a single deck without any stairs or thresholds. The walkway and hydraulically adjustable gangway make it easier for all users to go ashore, while increasing safety and saving time. Tactile signs also help the visually disabled to find their way around on board. (However, the jury would like to point out that the colour of exit signs must always be green!) Induction loops make it possible for passengers with hearing aids to hear all information announced over the speakers. The position, departure time and port of call of the boat are also shown on monitors.

Allergy-friendly building materials and textiles were used, in addition to non-reflective paint, grip handles along walls and seat backs in the lounge. There is

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plenty of room for wheelchairs and buggies, which can also be secured to the floor. The kiosk has counters at different heights and the toilets are extra spacious. By designing its high-speed passenger ferries in this way, Rogaland Kollektivtrafikk FKF has definitely made good on its promise: ‘Transport for ALL’.

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LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE SCHANDORFFS PLASS, PARK AREA IN OSLO Landscape architect: Developer:

Building architect:

Østengen & Bergo AS Höegh Eiendom AS The square has been donated to the Municipality of Oslo.

MAP Arkitekter AS

The new Schandorffs plass park area replaced the car park on Schandorffs gate. The design is based on a desire to make the transport route between Fredensborgveien and Akersgata accessible. The greatest challenge was the seven-metre height difference, as the area could only be accessed by stairs.

JURY’S VERDICT The design of Schandorffs plass is well thought-out down to the very last detail.

It is accessible to all. It has attractive contrasts cut into stone, functional and aesthetically pleasing railing, natural sight lines, marked steps, an elegant levelling of significant height differences and inviting sitting areas. The use of rusted steel fits in nicely with the other materials used and vegetation planted.

Low-growing shrubs ensure a good overview and attractive, open appearance.

The sculptured design of the walkways gives this city space an identity and contributes to the creation of the natural harmonisation of older buildings with modern city life. Schandorffs plass is an extremely well-designed park with successful integration of some elements in a very unique way. The aesthetic qualities raise the design of the park to a higher level.

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PRODUCT DESIGN TUVA CUTLERY Design: Commissioner:

Per Finne, Per Finne industridesign AS Hardanger Bestikk AS

TUVA CUTLERY, A CUTLERY SERIES FOR ALL Extensive observations show that people generally hold cutlery in different ways.

The TUVA series was developed for a wide range of grasps and needs in all user groups. Children, the elderly and people with a reduced ability to grasp should also experience the cutlery to be both functional and user-friendly.

JURY’S VERDICT The TUVA cutlery series features high-quality craftsmanship through and through. By scaling up somewhat and using ‘hollow handle’ technology, a larger handle was developed that gives users a better grip without increasing weight or material usage. The cutlery has an aesthetic, appealing and timeless design.

A simple curve creates a soft, visual line, while providing better balance in the hand. The universal design meets the needs of special user groups, but is also implemented in a manner that helps create an integral impression as a whole.

This cutlery is attractive to all types of users.

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SERVICES AND INTERACTION DESIGN WWW.YR.NO Designers: Commissioner:

NRK, Meteorological Institute NRK, Meteorological Institute, APT

ONLINE WEATHER FORECAST When using yr.no everyone should be able to find the weather information they are looking for. NRK and the Meteorological Institute wanted to deliver forecasts that were much more complex and detailed than users were used to, on a web site based on familiar and well-functioning standards.

JURY’S VERDICT A considerable amount of work has been devoted to the development of yr.no.

Adapting such a large amount of accessible information in such a broad way is complicated and it has been resolved in an exemplary way. The jury recognises that the solution is available to most other people as well, and only a few more details need perfecting to meet all the requirements of universal design. With around three million unique users every week, yr.no is probably the most dedicated web site in Europe. Innovative details such as meteograms, a map feature and ‘my locations’ are just some of the elements that have been taken into use and function well. In Norway, people say that everyone talks about the weather, so it is not surprising that more and more people visit yr.no before expressing an opinion.

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HONORABLE MENTION INDUSTRIAL DESIGN MAGNOR INCLUDE - WATER CARAFE Design: Commissioners:

Magnor Glassverk Magnor Glassverk, Innovativoli

Magnor Glassverk wanted to develop a water carafe suitable for the elderly, and people with various muscle and joint diseases. One of the challenges was finding functional adaptions that did not discriminate the target group, whilst trying to make the carafe the preferred alternative of a wide user group.

THE JURY’S HONORABLE MENTION The universal design of Magnor Include is hidden through tangible aesthetic and functional qualities A narrow and high waist enables both small and large hands to grip firmly around the carafe. The collar rests and supports the hand; and aids handling and pouring. It also prevents the hand from slipping, for example, in the event of condensation due to cold contents. A wide, round base provides good balance and additional support. The carafe is also slightly smaller than a traditional carafe (0.8 l) and is therefore lighter. Magnor Include bears its name well. The carafe is inclusive and attractive to most people.

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INFORMATION AND INTERACTION DESIGN

MOBILE APP - TRAFIKANTEN SANNTID (TRANSPORTATION IN REAL-TIME) Design: Commissioner:

Shortcut as Trafikketaten

A web site app to obtain an overview of public transport in Eastern Norway.

Trafikanten.no is travel planner with information and timetables for public transport in Eastern Norway. The web site covers 18,000 stops and is used on average by 100,000 people every day. By developing a special application for iPhone, they wanted to create an innovative solution that gave travellers information about public transport in simple way in real-time.

THE JURY’S HONORABLE MENTION The jury would like to stress that the mobile app was only submitted for the Innovation Award for Universal Design; not the entire web site. The application has been adapted for iPhones and cannot be used on all platforms; therefore it is limited in terms of universal design. Since it is strongly associated with iPhones, it also creates a monopoly in the market, which the jury does not endorse.

Nonetheless, it is an advanced solution and simplifies the everyday lives of many iPhone users, as a result we wanted to give it an honourable mention. The application demonstrates excellent usage of graphical elements. It displays the nearest stop and states the hours/mins until the next bus or tram arrives. This is possible because both the telephone’s and the vehicle’s GPS systems are in direct contact with Trafikanten’s data systems. Public transport users can gather all their favourite departure times with specific routes from specific stops. The VoiceOver feature has been further developed to make it easier or possible for the visually impaired to use public transport in a simple way. The jury honors the initiative and execution, and hopes that the solution will be available for other mobile phones in the near future.

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LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE FISHING BRIDGES AT MYRBÆRHOLMEN Architect: Commissioners:

Arkitektkontoret Manthey Kula Norwegian Road Administration Municipalities of Eide, Averøy, Fræna, Molde, Kristiansund, Møre og Romsdal County, Gass Ror IKS and National Tourist Routes in Norway.

Myrbærholmen is a fishing area along the Atlantic Road to the north of Molde on the Møre coastline. Despite its location close to a busy road, anglers are now safe on longitudinal bridges attached to the side of the road.

JURY’S VERDICT When working on the fishing bridges, it is evident that emphasis was placed on them being used by all, i.e. the elderly, children, the visually impaired and wheelchair users. The project is rough, tough and beautifully executed architecture.

Using the foundations of the road to build extended bridges was an excellent solution. The jury would like to honour the innovativity and inventiveness of the solution to provide a fishing area on the Atlantic Road and the existing road system. The solution is innovative and allows the bridges to be used by all user groups. Despite the good intentions of the project and emphasis on universal design, there is still some way to go before all requirements are met. In its conclusion, the jury finds that it is creative and innovative to establish a fishing area in such a location. Nonetheless, the jury points out that there are some limitations, for example, neither children nor wheelchair users can see through the high railings or surface of the bridge, which means they cannot see the fishing line in the water or fish they catch either. The jury also finds that the bridges are too high over the water and that they are situated on a bend without a pedestrian crossing. It seems dangerous to cross a road with an 80 km speed limit.

Furthermore, it is pointed out that gravel paths in some areas are cumbersome for wheelchair users and parked cars in the parking area can block the accessibility of wheelchair users. These are considered significant shortcomings that can be improved.

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ARCHITECTURE HALDEN PRISON Architects: Beate Ellingsen as, HLM Arkitekture AS, Erik Møller Arkitekter as Comissioners: Statsbygg, East Norway Correctional Service

To the extent possible, the East Norway Correctional Service wants the prison conditions in Halden Prison to reflect daily life and prepare the inmates for life outside beyond prison walls. In order to achieve this, an interior architect was also used to furnish the prison, which is pioneering in a Nordic context.

JURY’S VERDICT Halden Prison placed immense weight on using design/universal design as a strategic tool for the correctional service. The uniform execution of the concept, use of an interior architect and emphasis on good spatial solutions, are not only practical and functional for all, but they also preserve visual values in an excellent way. The good contours and design, selection of the right materials and handling of size are positive for all, both the inmates and employees of the correctional service. Halden Prison is the first prison in Norway to relinquish bars in front of the windows to give light open rooms with good views onto green areas.

Colour codes are used to distinguish different zones in the building. Good contrasts have been used on all surfaces and there is a self-developed pictogram information system. The decorations and photo collages have been designed to accommodate the various cultural backgrounds of the inmates, and the so-called ‘holy rooms’ can be used by all, regardless their religion and cultural identity.

Ample space has been given for moving around. Emphasis has been placed on moving from one building to another and their particular functions to distinguish between home, school and the workplace. Separate transition dwellings and visitor quarters show the importance of visitors and families. The jury points out that insufficient marking on some glass surfaces and some door frames can be problematic for anything with wheels. Nonetheless, the jury wants to give this interesting and complex project an honourable mention. The jury finds that this is innovation on several levels, as some very important aspects of how we adapt our society have been addressed. We are touched by the way this has been resolved and it causes us to reflect over our shared values.

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The Innovation for All programme promotes inclusive, people-centred design as an effective strategy for innovation in private and public sector.

The primary objective is to contribute to a more inclusive society in which products, services and environments are designed based on human diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities for everyone to participate.

The programme highlights the value of this approach with the main activities being knowledge transfer, competence building, and design projects in partnership with Norwegian industry and public sector enterprises.

Hausmannsgate 16 N-0182 Oslo Norway Phone: +47 23 29 28 70 E-mail: post@doga.no Read more about the award at www.doga.no/en/innovationaward

ŠDOGA 2019 Design: Anne Berit Ringen

AN EFFECTIVE STRATEGY FOR INNOVATION