Universal Design (UD)
Universal Design is a process that enables and empowers a diverse population by improving human performance, health and wellness, and social participation (Steinfeld and Maisel, 2012).
We work collaboratively with owners, architects, interior designers, and building users at all stages of project planning, design, and post-occupancy to help you realize your Universal Design vision.
Goals of Universal Design (UD)
We evaluate all projects through the lens of the eight Goals of Universal Design:
Body Fit
Accommodating a wide a range of body sizes and abilities
Comfort
Keeping demands within desirable limits of body function and perception
Awareness
Ensuring that critical information for use is easily perceived
Understanding
Making methods of operation and use intuitive, clear, and unambiguous
Wellness
Contributing to health promotion, avoidance of disease, and protection from hazards
Social Integration
Treating all groups with dignity and respect
Personalization
Incorporating opportunities for choice and the expression of individual preferences
Cultural Appropriateness
Respecting and reinforcing cultural values and the social and environmental contexts of any design project
Design Resources
We have encapsulated years of evidence-based research into Design Resources that provide an overview of the current state of knowledge in various fields.
isUD Overview
The isUD is comprised of over 500 Universal Design solutions derived from Goals of Universal Design and the Design Resources.
- Design Process
- Space Clearances
- Circulation
- Environment Quality
- Site
- Rooms and Spaces
- Furnishings & Equipment
- Services
- Policies
Full isUD Checklist
Create an account to see all 500 solutions, and to select and save the ones you want in your project.
See all of the ways we can help you engage in the Universal Design process!
Interested in learning more about Universal Design? Check out some of our recommended publications and online courses.
