Search

• Definition
• Checklists
• Links
• Videos

Universal design is...

" the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design."

~ Ron Mace, Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University

The whole idea behind Universal Design (UD) is that environments and products should be designed to be used by people with a wide range of abilities. By doing so, fewer exceptions need to be made, less discrimination occurs and more people can operate in the environment with more independence.

It is a logical extension of the design process that simplifies everything from the shape of a product to the instructions. From our perspective, it gives more value to a product, because more people can use it. When you incorporate that thinking into the design of a home, it means that more people can enter and live comfortably within the home, regardless of their abilities or the devices they may need to use.

The Seven Principles of UD* are:

• Principle One: Equitable Use
  The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.

• Principle Two: Flexibility in Use
  The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities.

• Principle Three: Simple and Intuitive Use
  Use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the user's experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level.

• Principle Four: Perceptible Information
  The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user's sensory abilities.

• Principle Five: Tolerance for Error
  The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.

• Principle Six: Low Physical Effort
  The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue.

• Principle Seven: Size and Space for Approach and Use
  Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user's body size, posture, or mobility.

* © Copyright 1997 NC State University, The Center for Universal Design

Universal Design Checklists

These checklists and surveys from the University of Iowa give you many things to think about as you enter into a remodeling or development project.

• Conduct Your Own Universal Design & Green Home Survey: {PDF Format} {Word Format}

• UD Green Home Checklist: {PDF Format} {Word Format}

More Checklists

• Universal Design Features in Houses

Links

• AARP: "Understanding Universal Design"