Buildings and environments should be inclusive, accessible and usable, but who is responsible and what does that really mean?
According to The Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment in the UK 'Inclusive design is about making places everyone can use. The way places are designed affects our ability to move, see, hear and communicate effectively'. In 2006, they published guidelines entitled ‘The principles of Inclusive Design (They include you)’.
The guidelines identified that Inclusive Design is everyone’s responsibility. An inclusive, accessible and usable environment is created by surveyors, architects, planners, building control officers, surveyors, engineers, access consultants and facilities managers. For example, incorporating accessibility in the day to day management and operations of a building is vital in order to ensure that the buildings are fully accessible and usable throughout their lifespan.
Developers, landlords and service providers also have a responsibility in the creation of inclusive, accessible and usable environments. For example, it is their responsibility to ensure that their property is designed, built and operated in line with inclusive design and accessibility principles.
In order for buildings and environments to be inclusive, accessible and usable they need to:
- Facilitate independent access and use of facilities by all people to the greatest extent possible based on the principles of Universal Design and Inclusive Design.
- Provide accessible places and spaces to allow all people regardless of their age, size or disability to participate safely, independently, conveniently, with confidence, and with dignity.
- Offer choice where a single design solution cannot accommodate all users.
- Provide for flexibility in their use and be convenient and enjoyable for everyone to use.
- Acknowledge the diversity and the different needs of the end users (e.g. Gender and race).
If you would like further information on making buildings and environments, accessible, inclusive and usable, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01-4151285 or [email protected].
