Improving assessment criteria of universal design: Towards an equitable approach

Abstract

Architecture is for everyone, thus it needs to give a chance to all individuals and groups of society to feel included and satisfied in the various facilities and public spaces. The misconception is given when architects design built environments following the ADA regulations as a burden instead of using an innovative approach to accommodate the needs and expectations of all users. To ensure the operation of equitable spaces, an innovative architectural approach is needed. A universal space is a place where all people can fit, it is a space where people from all social categories and individual characteristics are equal and satisfied. The concept of a universal design is either used wrongly or divided into accessible or / and inclusive architecture. Therefore, the aim of this research is to investigate the significance of universal design and to put down relevant assessment criteria in order to create spaces and environments that everyone can use without feeling any discrimination. This research uses a scientific methodology to accomplish its goal by first reading the literature on universal design and its application in the design of spaces, and then by examining and comparing four chosen case studies: KWK Promes’ Przelomy centre for dialogue and Steven Holl’s winter visual art centre as international examples, Snohetta’s Bibliotheca Alexandrina as a regional example and Zaha Hadid’s Issam Fares Institute as a local example. These facts support the authors' argument that universal design is a solid starting point for appropriate design solutions to increase the equity of spaces and respond to the abilities and needs of a variety of users. As guidelines for the design of spaces, a series of recommendations are made about the effective use of this architectural approach.