Universal Design: How Your Facility Can Benefit

Instead of adapting a facility to fit the needs of people with disabilities, the concept of universal design calls for all communications, products and environments to be accessible and usable by everyone, regardless of their age or level of physical ability.

Facility managers have a unique place in implementing universal design, says DeAnna Radaj, owner and design consultant for Milwaukee-based Bante Design. “By implementing its seven principles, it makes the facility manager's job and many of their duties easier,” she explains. “If the design scheme is done properly in the first place, the space’s occupants and any visitors can easily get around.”

The seven principles of universal design that Radaj refers to are a set of guidelines authored by a working group of architects, product designers, engineers and environmental design researchers to guide a wide range of design disciplines including environments, products and communications.

“Implementing these changes can help reduce vacancies in properties as occupants may have to find other, more accessible spaces as the need arises,” says Radaj. “It also adds value to the property itself, making it more marketable in a tough economy, as you are able to market property to a wider, diverse population group.”

How facility managers can adopt universal design

Since 2008, fewer commercial buildings have been constructed and the availability of buildings ready for occupancy has increased. Accessibility design concepts are easier to incorporate into new construction, so older buildings present a challenge for facility managers who wish to incorporate universal design principals into their properties.

When it comes to incorporating universal design “on an existing feature, remodels are typically more expensive than new construction—period,” says Margie Grace, principal and lead designer of Grace Design Associates in Santa Barbara, Calif. But keep in mind facility managers will increase their facility’s value, she says.

“You can start incorporating universal design principles whenever you undertake any remodel or retrofit project, as some of the options are easy to implement,” says Radaj. She says there are many ways facility managers can incorporate universal design principles into their properties without major structural changes. Before planning a complete overhaul, facility managers should consider making these adjustments to their facilities first:

• Visibility can be an issue for many people. Keeping walkways clear for canes and guide dogs is an important first step. Clear and intuitive signage, high contrast paint and flooring, and matte finishes to reduce glare can reduce eyestrain. Under-cabinet lighting in cafeterias and workspaces with overhead cabinets can also help. In addition, spotlights should also be used to highlight door areas.
• Comfort is essential for reducing fatigue from everyday tasks. In shared bathrooms, motion-sensor or single lever faucets for those with limited dexterity, high-seat toilets and knee space under sinks can make bathrooms usable and comfortable for everyone. Switching faucets, shower-tub fixtures, and drawer/cabinet pulls to lever style can accommodate everyone. A lower sill height for windows lets in more light while allowing someone at seated height to enjoy the view, and regularly placed benches and rest areas ensure a comfortable and practical facility.
• Safety concerns can sometimes be overlooked. Keeping areas clean and obstacle-free is one of the simplest updates you can make. Installing grab bars in hallways can assist those who have difficulty walking. Hardwood, rubber or tile in high-traffic areas creates a non-skid surface for wheelchair use. Facility managers should use countertops and tables with rounded edges to prevent injuries. Transfer stations—where a person moves from a wheelchair, walker or other mobility aid to another area such as a bathroom, top of a ramp, elevator or vehicle—need to be safe, sturdy and obstacle-free.

Why universal design makes sense

Despite the added costs associated with implementing universal design principles in your facility, doing so will not only make it more inclusive, but also protect the owners of the building from potential legal issues.

“We have a rapidly aging population that will eventually need some sort of assistance, and an existing population of those with mental or physical disabilities that needs it now,” says Radaj. “It only makes sense to incorporate [universal design] in any new construction or remodel to make a space more viable, and increase its value and user friendliness.”

It’s also likely that future laws will mandate universal design be incorporated into the planning of new buildings. “We are an ever-changing population,” says Grace. “The difference now is that we’re building for flexibility—building to last. If you’ll have to do it eventually, why not do it now? You’ll find that UD designs are more comfortable—for everyone.”

In addition, Grace adds that the liability issues should be a big concern for facility managers and the building owners.

“Liability exposure is the single largest potential expense for a facility,” Grace adds “Between keeping users safe and legal ramifications of not being ADA compliant, it’s a no brainer.”