Building for everyone: Inclusive design and accessibility

Building accessible spaces is more than just a design choice; it's a commitment to inclusivity and equality. When architects and planners focus on accessibility, they create environments that welcome everyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities.

This approach not only meets legal requirements but also fosters a sense of belonging and respect. Architectural accessibility is not just about ramps and elevators. Such spaces embody the principle that all individuals should be able to navigate and use spaces with ease and dignity.

To gain deeper insights into designing for accessibility, we spoke with Peter Fischer, ADA/Accessibility Compliance Coordinator at Arizona State University.

Understanding building accessibility

Building accessible and inclusive design focuses on creating spaces usable by everyone, transcending physical access to encompass a holistic design philosophy. This ensures spaces are navigable and comfortable for all. When done correctly, inclusive design integrates accessibility from the beginning, making these elements a seamless part of the environment.  

“It’s going to get harder and harder to tell if the building is an accessible award-winning building because good inclusive design is accessible, and vice versa,” Fischer said. “So, if it's inclusive and designed properly, you should never know that it's one of the most accessible facilities out there.”

The evolution of building accessibility has progressed from retrofitting to proactive design. This shift, driven by federal civil rights laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the U.S., has established clear guidelines for accessible design. The adoption of similar standards globally signifies a widespread commitment to inclusivity, reshaping architecture and underscoring the importance of spaces that cater to everyone's needs.

Key elements of accessible building design

Accessible building design is multifaceted, addressing various needs to ensure inclusivity. The design of accessible buildings involves several key elements, each addressing different aspects of accessibility. Not only must all areas be included, they must work seamlessly together. 

Physical accessibility

Fischer emphasizes the “three Ps” in accessible design: 

• Parking or public transit
• Privy or powder room
• Play or participation in the space. 

This concept ensures essential aspects of physical accessibility are covered, starting from an individual's arrival at a building. Key features include ramps, elevators, and wide doorways for mobility, along with automatic doors for ease of access. Ensuring accessible parking, pathways, and corridors are also crucial for physical accessibility.

Sensory accessibility

Sensory accessibility caters to individuals with visual and auditory impairments. This includes Braille signage for the visually impaired, auditory signals for those with hearing impairments, and visual aids for individuals with sensory processing challenges. These features help in navigating and interacting with the environment more effectively.

Cognitive accessibility

Cognitive accessibility focuses on creating environments that are easy to navigate and understand. This involves clear, straightforward signage and tranquil spaces that reduce sensory overload, aiding individuals with cognitive challenges, such as autism or dementia. Fischer also notes the importance of acoustics, especially for those sensitive to loud or sudden noises.

Technological enhancements

Incorporating technology is a forward-thinking aspect of accessible design. Technological enhancements like smart systems, automated doors, and wayfinding apps not only aid individuals with disabilities but also improve the overall user experience. These technologies ensure that buildings are not just accessible today but are adaptable for future needs and advancements.

Fisher's approach, focusing on the “three Ps” in conjunction with the needs of individuals with physical, cognitive, hearing, and visual disabilities, lays the foundation for truly inclusive spaces. By addressing these diverse requirements, designers can ensure that buildings are not only accessible but genuinely welcoming for everyone.

Inclusive excellence and award-winning design

Built during the pandemic and officially open in 2021, Thunderbird’s Global Headquarters has been recognized for its outstanding commitment to accessible design, earning an award from the Phoenix Mayor's Commission on Disability Issues. The building incorporates various features that enhance accessibility for a diverse range of needs. 

Some feature highlights of the building include:

• Haas Digital Global Forum: Features a touchless, motion-responsive LED video wall, making technology accessible to individuals of all heights, including those in wheelchairs.
• Volumetric capture studio: Offers three-dimensional renderings for faculty and student initiatives, supporting fully immersive language learning and global interaction.
• Ablution rooms: Designed for individuals following the Islamic faith to perform cleansing rituals before prayers, demonstrating cultural sensitivity.
• Meditation room: Provides a quiet space for contemplation, meditation, or prayer, catering to the spiritual and mental well-being of students, faculty, and staff.

Fischer highlights a key aspect of this design: “One of the reasons Thunderbird won is because it has a slightly unique feature in the building called a universal changing table (UCT). This is one of the first ever installed and the first at any ASU building in Phoenix.” This innovative feature provides a dignified, safe space for individuals with unique toileting needs to be accommodated and changed with respect — further exemplifying Thunderbird's dedication to inclusivity and establishing high standards for future architectural projects. 

Challenges and considerations of inclusive design

Addressing the financial aspects and budget constraints is a primary challenge in creating accessible spaces. Implementing comprehensive accessibility features often requires a significant investment, posing a hurdle for many projects. Balancing costs with the need for inclusive design is a complex yet essential aspect of building accessibility. This consideration underscores the importance of prioritizing accessibility within project budgets.

Another significant challenge is balancing aesthetics with functionality. Designers and architects are tasked with integrating accessibility features into the overall design, maintaining aesthetic appeal while ensuring full functionality. Fischer emphasizes this, stating, “We have to lean on our design professionals. I personally would like to see accessibility seamlessly incorporated into the aesthetics in a way that makes them virtually unnoticeable. Like incorporating your ramp into a landscaping element.”

Additional considerations, such as reconciling historic preservation with accessibility, add another layer of complexity. This challenge involves finding a middle ground where the integrity and character of historic structures are maintained while ensuring they are accessible and inclusive. It requires innovative design solutions that respect the past yet embrace modern accessibility standards, ensuring that heritage sites are welcoming and usable for all individuals.

The future of accessible design

Emerging trends in accessible building design are paving the way for more seamlessly inclusive environments. Innovations focus on intuitive, user-friendly spaces that cater to a diverse range of needs. The integration of sensory-responsive features and adaptable living spaces is key to this evolution. These advancements are redefining accessibility, making it more effective and widespread.

The role of technology and AI in enhancing accessibility is going to become increasingly significant. These types of features are making buildings more navigable for everyone. Fischer adds, “Technology is definitely going to help promote independence and better overall user experience. Everything from assistive technologies through augmented and virtual realities and robotics are going to become a big part of how we enhance our buildings.” 

The principles of inclusive design are becoming deeply ingrained in the fabric of our built environments, shaping spaces that are not only accessible but also enriching and empowering for all. This journey of transformation in building design is not just about adhering to standards; it's about reimagining our spaces to foster community, innovation, and equality. 

Explore the pioneering design of Thunderbird Global Headquarters through images and detailed descriptions. We also invite you to take a virtual tour of Thunderbird’s technologically advanced and inclusive building using your browser or VR headset. When viewing on a mobile device, rotate your screen to landscape view (horizontal) to view the tour.