What is integral accessibility?
Integral accessibility means that a building, home or public space can be used independently and in the same way by everyone — including people who are unsteady on their feet, use a wheelchair, or see or hear poorly. “Integral” means that accessibility is built into the design from the start, not added as a separate solution later.
Features of integral accessibility
An integrally accessible design pays attention to, among other things:
- Step-free — no or low thresholds and level, continuous routes.
- Enough dimensions — wide doors and corridors and enough turning space for a wheelchair; a door is preferably at least 0.85 m wide and a turning circle of about 1.5 m is kept.
- Level differences — ramps or a lift instead of (only) stairs, with a gentle gradient.
- Legibility — good contrast, clear signage and tactile or audible information.
Importance and regulations
Integral accessibility makes a building usable by the widest possible group and keeps a home suitable into later life. Building regulations set basic requirements for the accessibility of buildings; certification schemes and guidelines go further. Designing in accessibility from the start avoids costly alterations afterwards.
Related terms
- Adaptable building
- Threshold
- Home automation
- Going (tread)
- Building regulations
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