Importance of inclusive design

27-09-2006

The Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) has stated in its latest paper that inclusive design is critically important to the future of architecture.

The term inclusive design is, however, far more than just design that gives acceptable access to disabled people.

It also applies to children, the elderly and families. Good design has to reflect the needs of a wide range of people and go further to help disabled people utilise a building.

Principles include; avoiding steps and utilising sloping walkways, installing ground level wheelchair access as a compulsory feature rather than an optional one and having automatic or button operated doors.

Space should be made available for everybody and CABE highlights a number of key words that highlight important features. These are; inclusive, responsive, flexible, convenient, accommodating, welcoming and realistic.

CABE states: "Inclusive design must be considered at the outset of the design process and remain integral throughout. This will help deliver an environment in which everyone can access and benefit.

"The principles relate as much to the design process as to the final product and equally to management, operation and information."

A high standard of office design can incorporate CABE's key principles and put them into practice for a company's new premises.

Importance of inclusive design

10-08-2006

Inclusive design is critically important to the future of office design and the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) is continuing with its initiative to promote good design for all.

The Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA) is also behind such an initiative which aims to guarantee accessibility to the designed working environment for all ages and all abilities.

Legislation is gradually coming into place that will force out discrimination towards certain groups, and this is a key factor in the growth of office design . In addition to adhering to legislation the RSA states that a changing demographic in this country requires workplace alterations.

As the longevity of people's lives improves then older people should be considered when designing space. By 2020 half of the UK adult population will be over 50 and workplace design shouldn't discriminate towards this growing group.

CABE stated: "Inclusive design aims to remove barriers, enabling everyone - regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or ability - to participate confidently and independently in everyday activities.

"To do this, we need to work directly with disabled people and others. Inclusive design benefits everyone - when you have small children, for instance, or are struggling with heavy luggage, or getting older. There are social, physical and attitudinal barriers which prevent people from moving around easily and independently, and CABE's Inclusive Environment Group is working to influence change."

Access points positioned in suitable places and a ready alternative to stairs are all aspects that are to be considered for workable design.

Good office design can help maximise the accessibility of a workplace and maintain a company that is open to all. It is important that in order to get quality staff and business productivity; an office is designed for people of all ages and all abilities.

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