Design that accommodates and adapts for use by people with disabilities.

Designers, developers, and building owners are responsible for ensuring that buildings and spaces are accessible to everyone. This includes, but is not limited to, anyone with a mobility or ambulatory impairment, such as wheelchair users, people with strollers, people with vision or hearing impairments, and older adults.

Accessibility is an important part of any design project and is often required by law before a certificate of occupancy can be granted. Standards and guidelines are typically defined by national, state, or provincial, and local jurisdictions and as such can vary depending on the type of project. It is advised that you check with the local municipality on accessibility requirements prior to beginning your design. When necessary, an accessibility code consultant can perform an audit and assist designers in understanding the requirements for each project.

While the needs of people with disabilities are different, every design project should consider accessibility. By planning for and adhering to accessibility guidelines, it’s possible to both design beautiful spaces and meet the needs of those with disabilities.

There are multiple ways in which accessibility can be an integral part of the design process.

Space

Open, unimpeded space, wider hallways, and enlarged door openings contribute to the ease of use by someone with a disability. The turning radius of a wheelchair (5'-0"or 1.5m) must always be considered. Broader entryways to buildings, accessible emergency exits, and larger bathroom cubicles are a result of these design modifications.

Vertical Access

Incorporating ramps, lifts, and elevators into the building design is advised as stepped conditions are considerably more difficult if not impossible for disabled people to navigate. In addition, visible, audible, and tactile displays are required at and near elevators to allow wheelchair users to move independently within the building.

Surfaces

Smooth floors make it possible for people in wheelchairs or walkers to navigate effectively, and the addition of handrails, grab bars, and tactile indicators for changes in surfaces and material is suggested.

Heights and Location

The current standard heights of kitchen counters and work surfaces are dangerously high and should be lowered. Putting hot objects like kettles or pots above head height means there is an increased risk for spills or burns. Desk systems should be adjustable in both width and height to accommodate wheelchair users. Lowering bathroom counters and storage locations to be more reachable, allowing for space under counters, and lowering the position of light switches and outlets are all needed modifications when designing with accessibility.

Technology

The increasing ubiquity of automatic door openers, smart technology, interactive monitors, smart appliances, and security systems reduces the need for touch and grip surfaces, and allows users to set temperature on thermostats, prepare meals, and schedule laundry.