What is the core principle of ‘Universal Design’?
The design and composition of an environment so that it can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people, regardless of their age, size, ability or disability.
According to the principles of universal home design, what does ‘access’ refer to?
Everyone should be able to safely and independently approach and enter a house, with level access being dignified.
What does the universal design principle of ‘dignity’ imply regarding house entrances?
People with limited mobility should not have to use a different entrance from everyone else.
The universal design principle of _____ ensures everyone has the opportunity to use the entire home.
use
What does the universal design principle of ‘enjoyment’ relate to?
It asserts everyone’s right to enjoy their home and to be able to visit others in comfort.
What is a ‘design brief’ in the context of creating a new home?
A written description of the house to be built, prepared by the architect in partnership with the client.
Name three pieces of supplementary information typically included in a design brief.
Any three from: size/area, number of floors, spaces/rooms needed, energy performance, construction method, special requirements, finishes, landscaping, budget, or time frame.
What is a primary benefit of writing down a design brief?
It helps to turn a fuzzy notion in the client’s head into a clear picture or drawing.
Name one factor that influences the internal layout design of a home.
Any one from: the size of the family, the age and health of each family member, typical activities, or space requirements for furniture.
Why is considering the ‘connections between spaces’ important in layout design?
To ensure efficient and logical flow, for example, by providing good wheelchair access between related rooms.
What building regulations in the source material set the minimum level of accessibility for every new home?
The Technical Guidance Document (TGD) M.
List the four key areas of the home where TGD M requires specific measures for accessibility.
Approach, entrance, circulation, and sanitary facilities.
What is the ideal design feature for the approach to a home’s entrance to ensure accessibility?
A level access approach.
If level access is not possible, what alternative should be provided for the approach to a house?
A gently sloping surface with landings at regular intervals.
For a universally designed entrance, what is the minimum size for the level and protected car landing area?
1,500mm by 1,500mm.
What is the minimum effective clear width for the main entrance door?
800mm.
What is the optimum height for door handles according to universal design principles?
900mm.
What is the maximum permissible height for a threshold at an entrance door?
15mm.
To allow for wheelchair access, what is the minimum diameter for a turning circle required inside the entrance?
1,500mm.
What is the minimum specified width for a corridor according to building regulations for accessibility?
900mm.
What is the minimum effective clear width for all internal doors in a home?
800mm.
To allow a wheelchair user to open an internal door, what minimum clear space should be provided beside the door on the pull side?
300mm.
In kitchen design, what is the ‘dual design approach’?
An approach where everyday appliances are installed using universal design principles, but work surfaces are provided at two different heights.
In a dual design kitchen, what is the standard height for a work surface intended for standing users?
900mm.
