Universal Design

Universal Design is a concept that has taken the interest of architects, engineers, and disability advocates since first being coined by the North Carolina State University Center for Universal Design. The concept goes beyond simple ADA compliance, focusing instead on optimizing every environment for all people. As stated by the Center for Universal Design, the concept is "the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design." 

Where to Apply Universal Design

There are several areas where concepts of Universal Design can be proactively applied to make commercial facilities a more accessible place for all. Below is a list of ideas:

1. Parking Lots

First, facilities must remember to include at leas the minimum number of handicapped parking spaces in lots. Guidance can be found in the ADA. Of course, property owners can feel free to provide additional handicapped parking spots, if so desired. Be sure to check with local municipality zoning ordinances, however, to ensure compliance with local governments as well.

2. Exterior Areas

Sidewalks, ramps, and stairs must be cleared and properly maintained in order for facilities to remain compliant. This might include the use of grit strips and stair treads to improve traction on such surfaces. ADA compliant mats can also be used just outside entryways to trap and contain excess debris before it is tracked into the entryway and lobby area.

3. Entrances

Not surprisingly, doorways present the biggest challenge when making entrances accessible. Power-assisted doors are the most popular solution, giving visitors the ability to open the door with an easy push of a button. Inside entrances, additional low-profile entrance mats can be used as a final line of defense against incoming dirt, moisture, and debris.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Universal Design

Since the early 1990s, greater focus has been placed on creating environments that are more easily accessed and enjoyed by specific groups of people. Sometimes, that design focuses on individuals with disability. Other times, however, the design may simply focus on a niche for which an organization wants to provide a superior experience.

We’ve already discussed the concept of Universal Design above. Now, let’s turn to two additional schools of thought. They are Accessible Design and Usable Design. Below are more details on each approach to design, as well as a few words on how they differ from Universal Design.

What is Accessible Design? How does it differ from Universal Design?

Accessible Design is a practice that became popular following the enactment of the ADA in 1990. By definition, it is the process of designing environments with accessibility for those with disability in mind. Generally, the environment is to be comprised of "accessible" items that can be used by individuals with physical or mental impairment, without the help of another individual. Successful application of Accessible Design ensures businesses comply with the ADA, particularly those sections that require all businesses to make public facilities and services fully accessible to individuals with physical or mental impairments.

What is Usable Design? How does it differ from Universal Design?

Usable Design simply aims to create products and services that are easy, intuitive, and efficient to use. It is formally defined as the practice of designing a particular product or service with maximum effectiveness and efficiency for "a specified set of users." With this definition in mind, it becomes clear how Usable Design can sometimes be accessible. However, it can also strictly "usable" for a specific set of users that does not include individuals with disability. In the end, Usable Design focuses on a specific niche, unlike Universal Design and Accessible Design. UD and AD provide much greater accessibility for individuals with disability.