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'Frontrunners" Understanding of Universal Design in Architecture
Sidse Grangaard1, Victoria Linn Lygum1
1Department of Built Environment, Aalborg University.
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics
|September 8, 2022
Summary
Universal Design (UD) is transitioning in Denmark, moving beyond just accessibility. Architects are exploring UD through social sustainability, human-centric design, and equality, aiming to integrate it into practice for diverse users.
Area of Science:
- Architecture
- Social Science
- Urban Planning
Background:
- The Danish building sector is adopting Universal Design (UD), but its practical implementation by architects and clients is still developing.
- Current legislation primarily focuses on accessibility, indicating a gap in broader UD understanding and practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the diverse understandings of Universal Design (UD) among architectural professionals in Denmark.
- To identify the prevailing discourses surrounding UD within the architectural profession.
Main Methods:
- Discourse analysis of survey responses from professionals with experience or interest in UD.
- Inclusion of professionals expected to be aware of industry trends.
Main Results:
- Five distinct discourses on UD were identified: Social Sustainability, Human-Centric Design, Beyond Ramps, Equality, and Giving Voice.
- A collective effort exists to legitimize and integrate UD into architectural practice.
- Focus is placed on multisensory and architectural quality for diverse human needs in design.
Conclusions:
- UD in Denmark is evolving beyond basic accessibility, encompassing broader social and human-centered principles.
- There is a clear professional drive to mainstream UD by emphasizing inclusive design for all users.
- Architectural quality and multisensory experiences are key elements in the ongoing integration of UD.
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