Since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law in 1990, our society has made more of an effort to make spaces accessible for people with disabilities. However, there are still things that can get in the way of their ability to move freely in a space.

Poorly designed spaces and buildings that were designed before the 1990s are some of the barriers that people with disabilities still face. Some architects are trying to change that. In this article we will be discussing some of the ways architects are changing their designs and their thinking to create better designs for all Americans.

The First Step is to Change Our Culture and Our Thinking

For many architects, designing for accessibility is mainly through the lens of the codes developed through the ADA act. This can make the codes feel like a burden for architects.

The codes and regulations often are applied as a layer over an already developed design. Ramps and grab bars are added to the design sometimes without much thought for the final use. This has led to architects applying the codes without understanding why they are necessary in the first place.

Instead of viewing the codes as a burden, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) proposes that we change our culture and the way we do design to make our buildings more equitable for all. The codes can be used as an opportunity to make spaces that are interesting and inclusive.

After all, if one group enters a building using a grand, sweeping staircase while another group has an elevator down the hall to use to enter the building, that design isn’t equitable – even if it may be to code.

To do this, we need to start thinking about accessibility early on in the design. Accessibility shouldn’t be codes we stamp on an already finished design, but something that is integral to the design as a whole. The spiral ramp at Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects’ Ed Roberts campus in Berkley, designed by Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects is a great example of the possibilities of accessible design.

Use Science to Improve Accessible Design

The architecture firm Orfield Laboratories has done research for the past 20 years to develop better designs for those who are perceptually and cognitively disabled. Steven J. Orfield, the owner of Orfield Laboratories has called this one of the greatest quests of his life.

Through this research they have developed design requirements and standards for aging, dementia, and autism that are based on science. These design standards could be enjoyed by all – not just the disabled population.

Orfield Laboratories has identified three top standards that will help those who are perceptually and cognitively disabled enjoy a space.

1. Minimizing Sensory Noise. Sensory input like uncomfortable textures, loud noises, and large variations in darkness and brightness are some of the sensory aspects to a building that some who are perceptually and cognitively disabled find to be too overwhelming.
2. Reducing Design Complexity. Simple designs reduce confusion and the effort to interpret the space. Complex design can cause anxiety and accidents for people with perceptual and cognitive disabilities.
3. Bring in Nature. By bringing in nature to your design you can create interesting architecture that isn’t overwhelming. Plus, there are many therapeutic benefits to nature.