In our ever-diverse world, the imperative of crafting spaces accessible to all cannot be overemphasised. Beyond moral obligation, it's a legal and societal duty to ensure our constructed environment is inclusive and accommodating. In the UK, the Equality Act of 2010 stipulates that reasonable adjustments must be made to ensure equal access for persons with disabilities. As an architectural practice, our commitment goes beyond mere compliance to forge spaces that genuinely enrich everyone's quality of life.
Above: Our Darley Dale Extra-Care scheme
We have worked on a number of Extra Care projects with specialty in accessible and DDA compliant designs for a varying degree of required assistance. As Architects, we hold a moral responsibility to ensure our designs are both practical as well as aesthetically pleasing.
Interesting Fact: The UK's Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) of 1995 marked a significant stride towards improving accessibility. It mandated service providers to make "reasonable adjustments" for accommodating individuals with disabilities. This paved the way for the more comprehensive Equality Act of 2010.
To actualise this, we seamlessly integrate accessibility features from inception. Did you know that incorporating universal design principles not only benefits people with disabilities, but the broader public as well? For example, a wheelchair-accessible ramp can also serve parents with prams or individuals transporting heavy loads. This inclusive approach ensures our designs are versatile, catering to a wide array of needs.
Our dedication to accessibility extends even to sensory experiences. We consider facets like acoustics, lighting, and wayfinding, crafting spaces comfortable and instinctive for all. By collaborating with specialists and stakeholders, we're committed to shaping environments where no one is left behind. By emphasising accessibility and adhering to UK planning permissions, we contribute to a world where every individual can partake fully and relish the advantages of well-constructed spaces.
