UB architects look to grant universal access to modern design trends
A group of University at Buffalo architects and researchers is looking to create a bridge for builders to access the latest design trends.
A Closer Look at Universal Design
Something designed under the guiding principles of universal design should be usable by all people to the greatest extent possible. By definition, it should inherently be as accessible as possible for as many people as possible, minimizing need for further specialization.
Body Fit
Accommodating a wide a range of body sizes and abilities: The dryers are arranged on the wall in three rows of 6 each to provide room for several people of all sizes the opportunity to dry off after water play. They can also be used to dry different parts of the body like heads and […]
Comfort
Keeping demands within desirable limits of body function and perception The design features of the Aeron Chair provide a supportive and comfortable chair that helps to reduce back injuries caused by the stress on the back of prolong periods of seated work. The Aeron chair includes an innovative mesh seat and back to keep the […]
Awareness
Ensuring that critical information for use is easily perceived The tactile guide tiles on the floor of this hotel lobby guide people from the entry, as well as other areas of the hotel, to the reception area. A different type of tile is used to mark the location of the pathways and waiting areas. These […]
Understanding
Making methods of operation and use intuitive, clear and unambiguous In the newest subway cars in New York, electronic displays are mounted above the door that illustrate, with color and illumination, the progress of the train along its route. The next and last stops are also displayed at the respective ends of the display. These […]
Wellness
Contributing to health promotion, avoidance of disease and protection from hazards The City of New York has an extensive initiative focused on improving pedestrian and bicycle travel. Using simple and inexpensive strategies like painting and planters, hundreds of streets are being transformed to provide safer bicycling opportunities and passive recreation sites. The photograph shows an […]
Social Integration
Treating all groups with dignity and respect The photograph shows a waterfront redevelopment project in Malmo that created a sustainable community with mixed uses. A pedestrian promenade has sitting and socializing spaces all along the waterfront side. On the other side of the promenade, mid-rise residential buildings are located with stores, restaurants and offices on […]
Personalization
Incorporating opportunities for choice and the expression of individual preferences The iStore introduced a new dimension to personal computing. By developing a simple and intuitive way to find, purchase, and install applications, individuals can easily personalize their devices with the tools, entertainment, and communication systems that they value. The screen grid and colorful icon interface […]
Cultural Appropriateness
Incorporating opportunities for choice and the expression of individual preferences The Hippo Water Carrier was designed to address the needs of low income people in developing regions and displaced persons in temporary camps. Supplying a household with water often requires a substantial investment in time to travel to and from the water supply location and […]