C13: Accessibility and Universal Design – Above Green

(3 points)

INTENT

Provide buildings that are accessible, comfortable and usable by people of all backgrounds and abilities.

SUMMARY

This WELL feature requires projects to comply with basic accessible design requirements in their region and integrate principles of universal design into the design and operation of the space.

ISSUE

More than one billion people, or about 15% of the global population, live with some type of disability. Among this population, nearly 200 million individuals experience considerable difficulties in functioning, and adults with disabilities are more likely to experience poorer health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, asthma and obesity. Yet due to changes in global health and longevity these numbers are changing rapidly. The global rise in the populations of older adults and individuals living with chronic health conditions is expected to significantly impact the number of people living with a disability. The design of the built environment is particularly critical for the health, fulfillment and inclusion of the disability community. Unfortunately, not all countries have existing or robust standards for accessible design. Design can have a profound impact on who is able to interact with a space easily, safely and ably, yet many environments are not designed with consideration of people with disabilities.

SOLUTIONS

Spaces and places that are truly accessible are not limited to compliance with local code. Rather, they invite individuals with diverse abilities and mobility needs to use the space. Both accessible and universal design address multiple aspects of a built space, including infrastructure, signage and technologies, and together seek to enhance the opportunity for all individuals to exist independently and comfortably in a space.

IMPACT

Through thoughtful incorporation of accessible and universal design, projects can establish an inclusive and enabling community in which people of all abilities can effectively and easily access, utilize and engage with a space.

REQUIREMENTS

Part 1

Ensure Essential Accessibility (1 point)

Verified by Architect

For All Spaces

The following requirement is met:

Projects meet local accessibility laws and/or codes without exclusions or exemptions.

Part 2

Integrate Universal Design (2 points)

Verified by Professional Narrative

For All Spaces

Projects use universal design principles as guidance to accommodate a diverse range of occupant abilities. All projects must consult with a professional trained in universal design to ensure spaces are optimized to meet occupant needs. Projects address the following based on anticipated occupant need:

Physical access: accommodating entry and exit points to enable entrance to the space, flexible use of space and usability beyond the requirements of local laws or code.
Developmental and intellectual health: strategies that use color, texture, images and other perceptible information to support individuals with varying cognitive abilities (e.g., learning disabilities).
Wayfinding: strategies to help individuals intuitively navigate through spaces (e.g., signage, maps, symbols, mobile and digital technologies, information systems).
Inclusion: developing and implementing operational programs and processes (e.g., braille, auditory cues) that are inclusive of individuals with disabilities.
Technology: offering technology (e.g., audio and visual equipment, web access) that incorporates the needs of individuals with disabilities, made available to all occupants at no cost.
Safety: removing barriers to safety to reduce anxiety, and to support easy access to all built features and spaces.