Expert: Paul S. Brown, AIA - 1/17/2005

Question
Dear Paul S. Brown,
   Do you know of a place that is universally designed or an idea of a place that can be universally designed? Any ideas are greatly appreciated. Thank You.

Rachel Mallon
RMdecor
http://rmdecor.tripod.com

Answer
‘Universal Design' is a term used to describe building design which is fully accessible to persons with a wide variety of physical abilities; including those who are physically challenged or disabled.  This is the use of the term ‘Universal Design' which I am familiar with.

Any responsibly designed public building in the U.S. which has been constructed within the past 10 years, should be a reasonably good example of Universal Design.  Public law requires that all such buildings be fully accessible.  Perhaps you have a recently constructed public school, or library, or government office building in your community.

You might also try this link:  http://www.adaptiveenvironments.org   .  (paste that into your browser address window.)
This is a consulting firm in the Boston area that helps architects design responsibly for access.  They have an excellent section featuring case studies.