Universal Design: Creating Inclusive Environments

by Edward Steinfeld, Jordana Maisel

A much-needed reference to the latest thinking in universal design

Universal Creating Inclusive Environments offers a comprehensive survey of best practices and innovative solutions in universal design. Written by top thinkers at the Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (IDeA), it demonstrates the difference between universal design and accessibility and identifies its relationship to sustainable design and active living. Hundreds of examples from all areas of design illustrate the practical application of this growing field. Complete, in-depth coverage

• The evolution of universal design, from its roots in the disability rights movement to present-day trends

• How universal design can address the needs of an aging population without specialization or adaptation to reduce the need for expensive and hard-to-find specialized products and services

• Design practices for human performance, health and wellness, and social participation

• Strategies for urban and landscape design, housing, interior design, product design, and transportation Destined to become the standard professional reference on the subject, Universal Creating Inclusive Environments is an invaluable resource for architects, interior designers, urban planners, landscape architects, product designers, and anyone with an interest in how we access, use, and enjoy the environment.

Genres: Architecture

408 pages, Hardcover

First published March 5, 2012

Reviews

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Steinfeld and Maisel update and expand on Ronald Mace's definition of Universal Design some 15 years earlier, to better articulate the sustainability, health and equity goals it strives to achieve.

The authors cover the architectural history and cultural climate that led to the emergence of many user-centered design processes, including Universal Design. The content covered is extensive and thorough, including barriers and their social meaning, the role of demography in design, designing for human performance, social participation, health and wellbeing, public buildings and residential dwellings (including modifications), product design, public transportation, and strategies for bringing UD into the mainstream. They include useful background knowledge and strategies and guidelines for the topics covered.

It seems like there have been many advances in Universal Design since this book was published in 2012, but I found it a comprehensive and essential book for understanding the subject.

[Marcus Österberg · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great content but I find it very ironic that the typography makes the book a really difficult read.