“Universal design is the design of products and environments
to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible,
without the need for adaptations or specialized design.”
- Ron Mace
Introduction to Universal Design
Universal design is the creation of environments and products which are meant to usable by all people to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialization.
The intent of universal design is to enhance the quality of life for all of us, regardless of age or ability.
The elegance of Universal design is that it’s invisible and non-stigmatizing. The design is so intuitive the experience is often effortless. Next time you walk through an automatic door, think “the universal design effect.”
Much of the built environment is created with challenges to users regardless of ability—the “handicap” often comes from dealing with it.
Universal design is about access and inclusion as well as an added margin of safety. This is why universal and aging-in-place design is so closely matched. The stigma is no longer “hospital-like”, as grab bars and bath seats are now taking on a new look.