Universal Design

The Seven Principles of Universal Design

There are seven principles of universal design that can be used to guide the design of products and spaces. The Center for Universal Design identifies the principles of universal design as follows:

• 1.
  Equitable Use: The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities. For example, a single-level home with stepless entrances welcomes all users by creating an environment that does not have varying floor heights and stairs.
• 2.
  Flexibility in Use: The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities. For example, house floor plans should be designed so that each room can be used in multiple ways by diverse users such as a space that could be an office, library, or guest bedroom.
• 3.
  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. For example, the thermostat has easy-to-locate instructions with photos and minimal text.
• 4.
  Perceptible Information: The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user's sensory abilities. For example, the oven should have touch, visual, and audible cues and instructions for ease of use by the user.
• 5.
  Tolerance for Error: The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions. For example, slip resistant flooring is used in wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.
• 6.
  Low Physical Effort: The design can be used efficiently, comfortably, and with a minimum of fatigue. For example, lever and loop handles used on doors and faucets require low physical effort by user.
• 7.
  Size and Space for Approach and Use: Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of the user's body size, posture, or mobility. For example, clear floor space turnaround in a bathroom is available for a seated or standing user.

Universal Design Features in Housing

A house has 15 areas in which universal design features can be implemented. The guidelines for universal design in housing were developed by The Center for Universal Design and include the

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