Universal Design and ADA Standards Creating Spaces to Serve All People All the Time MAS06C 1 AIA HSW CE Hour Course fulfills 1 Hour state accessibility/ADA/barrier-free CE requirements © Ron Blank & Associates, Inc. 2014
An American Institute of Architects (AIA) Continuing Education Program Approved Promotional Statement: Ron Blank & Associates, Inc. is a registered provider with The American Institute of Architects Continuing Education System. Credit earned upon completion of this program will be reported to CES Records for AIA members. Certificates of Completion are available for all course participants upon completion of the course conclusion quiz with +80%. Please view the following slide for more information on Certificates of Completion through RBA
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An American Institute of Architects (AIA) Continuing Education Program • • •
Course Format: This is a structured, web-based, self study course with a final exam Course Credit: 1 AIA Health Safety & Welfare (HSW) CE Hour Completion Certificate: A confirmation is sent to you by email; you can print one upon successfully completing a course, or from your RonBlank.com transcript. If you have any difficulties printing or receiving your Certificate please send request to
[email protected]
•
Design professionals, please remember to print or save your certificate of completion after successfully completing a course-conclusion quiz. Email confirmations will be sent to the email address you have provided in your RonBlank.com account.
Course Description In this one-hour course, we will discuss the transformation within the building design industry and professions over past decades, comparing Universal Design (UD) with designing to conform to the ADA. We will introduce the principles of UD and survey design elements, innovations, and strategies that make more accessible, user-friendly spaces. Finally, we will discuss ADA 2010 standards, identifying requirements for bathrooms and kitchen areas.
Learning Objectives After completing this course, the design professional will be able to: • Discuss how accessible design for all user types enhances the lives of people occupying such a space and why it is important to design for all life-stages • Compare and contrast Universal Design with designing for ADA, UFAS and FHA • Identify the principles of UD and explain various design elements, innovations, and strategies for making more accessible, userfriendly spaces • Discuss ADA 2010 standards and identify requirements for various spaces such as bathrooms and kitchen areas
INTRODUCTION
Designing for All Users Design should be comprehensive. Good design takes into account longevity and associated life stages and user types by planning and incorporating those features associated with lifelong independence. This strategy of design extends beyond designing in preparation for old age to all types of users. To be Universally Designed, all possible inhabitants need to be considered. Thus, design for all means it works for all users.
Universal Design Definition Universal Design produces buildings, spaces, and furnishings that are accessible, adaptable, and universal. ACCESSIBLE Easy to approach, enter, operate, participate in, and/or use safely and with dignity ADAPTABLE Adapts easily and relatively cheaply to fully comply with accessibility requirements UNIVERSAL Inherently accessible to people of all ages, with and without physical disabilities
Life Stages & Phases Each life stage poses different roles and space utilization needs for family members
parents --
REAL ESTATE
bedroom, parent’s bedroom, kitchen --
MAJOR LIFE EVENT
birth, walking, grade school
DECISION MAKER
emerging self (+) variety --
REAL ESTATE bedroom, family room, friend’s house --
MAJOR LIFE EVENT
first relationship, high school, driver’s license
DECISION MAKER individual (+) friends --
REAL ESTATE
dorm room, first apartment, first home, car --
MAJOR LIFE EVENT
college/first job, first love/serious relationship
ADULT
ELDER
DECISION MAKER
DECISION MAKER
individual (+) partner --
REAL ESTATE
apartment, condo, first home, second home, vacation home, empty nest --
MAJOR LIFE EVENT
marriage (2x), divorce, children
ADULTHOOD II
DECISION MAKER
ADOLESCENT
EMERGING ADULTHOOD
CHILD
YOUNG ADULT
individual (+) offspring --
REAL ESTATE
own home, (kitchen/bath/bed) retirement living, offspring home, assisted living, CCR --
MAJOR LIFE EVENT
grandchildren, retirement, illness, death
UD- Evolve With Demographics The ability to reach objects and navigate spaces impacts the aging and the young; pregnant mothers, wounded warriors, or injured athletes.
UD- Evolve With Demographics
Injury, disability, obesity, or age can make it difficult to navigate in a traditionally-designed home. Universal Design can relieve these everyday stresses.
Designing for All Users
There are three federal acts in addition to state and local codes and ordinances that define the kitchen and bath accessibility requirements for public and private facilities.
Federal Acts Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) Applies to accessibility of public facilities (restaurants, hotels, parks) Applies to housing provided by public entities (state & local govt, universities) Applies to public/ common use areas in residential developments Requires all places of public accommodation to be accessible
Fair Housing Act (FHA) Extends accessibility requirements to private dwelling units and common areas Applies to all multifamily (4+ units attached) projects for sale or rent Applies to all or some units (depending on existence of an elevator)
Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS) Applies to all housing projects with federal funding (5+ units attached) Requires 5% of units to be accessible for persons with mobility disabilities, 2% must be accessible to persons with hearing or vision disabilities
Compliance Always remember that the burden of compliance rests with the person or persons who design and construct the built space.
Review #1 Universal Design produces buildings, spaces, and furnishings that are: a)
Accessible (easy to approach, enter, operate, participate in, and/or use safely and with dignity)
b)
Adaptable (adapt easily and relatively cheaply to fully comply with accessibility requirements)
c)
Universal (inherently accessible to people of all ages, with and without physical disabilities)
d)
All of the above
Review #1 Universal Design produces buildings, spaces, and furnishings that are: a)
Accessible (easy to approach, enter, operate, participate in, and/or use safely and with dignity)
b) Adaptable (adapt easily and relatively cheaply to fully comply with accessibility requirements) c)
Universal (inherently accessible to people of all ages, with and without physical disabilities)
d) All of the above
ADA HISTORY AND 2010 STANDARDS
Introduction to the ADA • The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law in 1990 by George Bush Sr. as part of a long continuum of civil rights legislation extending back to the US Constitution. ADA established the ADA Accessibility Guidelines that describe accessibility by individuals with disabilities to facilitates. • These guidelines were henceforth implemented during the design, construction, and alteration of buildings and facilities - the most current implementation being the 2010 ADA standards.
2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design The ADA Standards of 2010 are comprised of two components: • The 2004 ADAAG updated from the 1991 version to better align with the International Building Code AND • Respective chapters of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) depending on whether the project is covered under Title II (government) or Title III (private sector) of the ADA
Simple Steps to Remove Existing Barriers Design tips for ADA compliance and general barrier removal: Widen doors Install ramps Install accessible door/cabinetry hardware Install grab bars in toilet rooms Increase maneuvering space Remove obstructing furniture Insulate pipes under sinks to prevent burns Install cabinetry with higher toe kick to allow wheelchair users closer access • Install well organized, easy-to-reach storage • • • • • • • •
Application The next few slides will cover some general 2010 ADA Standards applicable to kitchen and bathroom design. Note that UFAS and FHA standards are very similar.
Compliant Shower Note clear floor space requirements and required dimensions. Ensure the shower is 36” by 36” and that seats, grab bars, and wall controls are placed on the correct walls. Consult the many ADA resources.
ADA Circulation Path Carefully consider all entrance and travel paths. Obstacles may need to be removed to create acceptable passage width. A restroom may be used by persons with different disabilities or more than one wheelchair user.
ADA Maneuverability and Turning The 60” wheelchair turning space is required in most restrooms. Lay out toilet partitions with the required 60” clear wheelchair turning space outside the accessible toilet stall before entry.
Clear Width at Turns
Clear Width of Doorways Remember that clear width of doorways is not the clear frame opening, but the passage width clear of all obstructions at the plane of the wall.
Manual Swinging Door Clearances These are two approach conditions for manual swinging doors. ADA Figure 404.2.4.1 includes 11 door approach variations. Refer to any of the many ADA design resources for further requirements.
Knee Clearance
Fig. 31
Knee and Toe Clearance
2010 separated the dimensions for clarity, and removed the requirement for 29” at lavatories
Toekick Height With the toekick space no longer being calculated as part of the clear space or turning radius, the ability to incorporate a standard toekick height of 4.5” makes it aesthetically pleasing universally and allows owners to rent the unit no matter the requirements.
Removable Sink Bases
Giving your clients options at removable sink base areas is important. If they would like to be able to remove and reinstall the sink base area for special events or entertaining, it should be a quick and easy action. If they do not want the cost of an appearance or plumbing panel, they should have the option as well.
Reach Ranges
Reach Ranges
ADA vs UD • Where a minimum level of accessibility may be achieved by following the ADA Standards for Accessible Design, a more comprehensive approach may be Universal Design. • Although not required by the ADA Standards, a Universal approach would be to design the space to accommodate not only people with disabilities, but people of different age groups. For instance, this may suggest a counter with different heights and mounting fixtures or storage within a lower reach range.
Demographic Trends • Universal Design accommodates all life stages and challenges and corresponding living arrangements • Statistically, Americans now keep a home for 5-7 years • A majority of ‘Boomers’ and half of ‘Gen X’ homeowners surveyed said they will keep their home for up to a decade • This will result in an increase in home improvements to enhance functionality and quality of life • The designer’s task: design and equip the home environment to meet the needs of all life stages
The Wellness Transformation The Evolution of Collective Interest in Health & Wellness* 1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2025
Transitioning to holistic, positive and experiential approach (Dr. Oz, Oprah) Health-only focus of the 80s
Wellness Transformation
+
Wellness Universe Emerges The “Big Bang”
x Health
*Strictly for heuristic purposes; not based on numerical data
Source: © The Hartman Group; Reimagining Health and Wellness 2010
America’s Aging Population Today… As of 2011, there were nearly 42 million retirees in America, about 13.3% of the population…
…and Tomorrow By 2040 this cohort will reach 76 million, 18.7% of the population. By their sheer numbers, Baby Boomers will impact the country and challenge us to think differently.
Facts on Aging America • 10,000 reach retirement age every day—this will continue for 20 years. SOURCE: Mayo Clinic Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging
• By 2030, about one in five people in the United States will be over 65. SOURCE: Mayo Clinic Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging
• Two-thirds of all people ever to reach the age of 65, are alive today. SOURCE: “Boom! Understanding Baby Boomer,” The Sound, September 2011
• Over the next 20 years, 74 million Boomers will retire in the U.S. alone.
SOURCE: “Boom! Understanding Baby Boomer,” The Sound, September 2011
• If you reach 65, average male life expectancy is 81 and female is 84.
SOURCE: “Understanding Life Expectancy,” Kaye Thomas
Top 10 Reasons for Multi-generational Living 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Economic depression Job/loss and unemployment Relocation for employment Baby Boomer retirement Ethnic traditions Adult children returning home (‘re-nesting’) Single parent with children, returning home Caregiving for an aging/widowed parent Damage to home (natural disaster / mold) Caregiving for an injured/disabled family member
Review #2 Universal Design (UD) is different from designing in conformity to the ADA because: a) b) c) d) e)
ADA standards are more rigorous UD provides for factors in addition to physical disabilities Universal Design includes conformity to the ADA ‘b’ and ‘c’ ‘a’ and ‘b’
Review #2 Universal Design (UD) is different from designing in conformity to the ADA because: a) b) c) d) e)
ADA standards are more rigorous UD provides for factors in addition to physical disabilities Universal Design includes conformity to the ADA ‘b’ and ‘c’ ‘a’ and ‘b’
THE 7 PRINCIPLES OF UNIVERSAL DESIGN
1. Equitable Use The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.
2. Flexibility in Use • Design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities. • Something as simple as where the controls are positioned for reading with or with out glasses is important. Here the controls come out to you with a push of a button, and the placement and operation is easy to use without extra shoulder strain.
3. Simple & Intuitive • Design is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level. • This means you don’t have to read a manual to operate anything in your space.
4. Perceptible Information The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities.
5. Tolerance for Error The design minimizes hazards and adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.
6. Low Physical Effort • The design can be used efficiently and comfortably with a minimum of fatigue. • For instance, can items be operated while seated or standing with minimum effort? Raised Dishwasher
7. Size and Space Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user’s body size, posture, or mobility.
Cooking, eating, cleanup areas allow sitting during activities.
A great floor plan for multi-tasking.
Review #3 The 7 principles of Universal Design are: a) Form, space, color, texture, materials, detailing, finishes b) Adequate entry, drop zones that work, open floor plan, compliant showers, proper counter heights, adequate electrical outlets, proper parking & ramps c) Equitable use, flexibility in use, simple & intuitive, perceptible information, tolerance for error, low physical effort, adequate size & space d) Traffic, parking, ingress/egress, corridor widths, kitchen and bath dimensions and clearances, ramp slopes, switches/controls
Review #3 The 7 principles of Universal Design are: a) Form, space, color, texture, materials, detailing, finishes b) Adequate entry, drop zones that work, open floor plan, compliant showers, proper counter heights, adequate electrical outlets, proper parking & ramps c) Equitable use, flexibility in use, simple & intuitive, perceptible information, tolerance for error, low physical effort, adequate size & space d) Traffic, parking, ingress/egress, corridor widths, kitchen and bath dimensions and clearances, ramp slopes, switches/controls
UNIVERSAL DESIGN CHECKLIST
Getting In and Out The entry is the connection from home to the world outside. Residents who know they can get in and out feel safe, secure, and in control . If possible, replace entry stairs with sloped walkways or ramps. Safety and condition of entry stairs and railings can be enhanced. Electric porch lifts can also be used.
Leader and Guide 1 Think of all of life’s phases 2 Learn which everyday activities and interests are most important to your client 3 Explore how to adapt mainstream products to specific needs 4 Foster discussion on quality of life with the client’s physical, emotional, and social needs in mind
Create Drop Zones That Work
Moving Through the House Identify and prepare a clear, safe, well-lit path through the house, including rails and grab bars, additional lighting and switching, and door widening. If there are stairs between the entry to the bedroom and bath, overcome the stairs by changing the use of rooms on the main floor, adding space, or adding a lift mechanism. In the kitchen, assure clear pathways around islands, appliances, countertops, tables and work areas.
Open Floor Plan Combining rooms connecting people to spaces is a great way to make a home and its kitchen more universal. Universal living for everyone who lives in the space or who visits, with strong attributes of visibility.
Use of Bedroom and Bathroom Well-designed bedrooms and baths assure that residents can get into and out of bed and use the bathroom as easily, safely, and independently as possible. Good design makes it easier and safer for caregivers to assist. Features include lighting, grips/grab bars, curbless shower, tub seats and lifts, roll-under sinks, reachable clothing storage, and space for a caregiver and client to work together safely in the bathroom.
‘Wet Room’ Bathroom Wet Room design can maximize space utilization and flexibility for a bathroom when floor area is restricted.
Eating and Meal Preparation For those who cook, kitchens with multiple height work surfaces, seated cooking stations, and better task lighting are helpful. Given the great variety in how people take meals, individually accessible, comfortable eating places are important.
Eating and Meal Preparation (cont’d) Drawers compartmentalize and give easy access in a single action.
Optimize Storage and Access
‘Pull-it-to-me’ storage affords three-way access in kitchen or bath.
Entertainment and Relaxation Entertainment includes TV, music, gaming, reading, visiting with guests, etc. Solutions may be as simple as rearranging furniture to clear paths and provide rest spots and grips, providing a lift chair, clearing clutter, or providing a better lamp or additional light switches.
Entertainment and Relaxation (cont’d) Make room for life to happen…
Household Management ‘Instrumental activity of daily living’ concerns services or assistance as well as space, but it includes space and surfaces for doing dishes, laundry, bill paying and household administration, and records storage accessibility.
Household Management (cont’d) Technology continues to improve Universal Design.
Working from Home
Home offices spaces are a growing aspect of the UD space design mix
Enjoying the Outdoors The importance of outdoor spaces and activities vary with the individual. UD organizes outdoor spaces to support activities that are important to the homeowner.
ADA/FHA/UFAS Kitchen & Bath Guide • When designing a kitchen or bath that is required to comply with ADA/FHA/UFAS Kitchen & Bath Guidelines: • Bid exactly what the blueprints’ interior elevations or guidance from the architect defines. • If you do not have this guidance make sure you detail exactly what you designed, and require a sign off from the architect before moving forward with deliveries.
Kitchen & Bath Guide (cont’d) Keep in mind as you design: • 30” minimum required for sink or vanity opening whether it is left open or you’re installing a removable sink base • Use a valance or filler to install between the adjoining cabinets in an open underneath space • The bottom of the valance or filler must be at 27” minimum above the finished floor. (AFF) • 34” overall height is required in many bathrooms as well. Select a 21”reduced depth modification on the specified 32.5” tall bath cabinet
Kitchen & Bath Guide (cont’d) Not all kitchens and baths complying with the ADA/FHA/UFAS Kitchen & Bath Guidelines require 32.5” tall cabinets for a 34” overall height. Some variations are below: • A sink and a work surface at the 34” overall height in the kitchen – the architect may designate these removable or open underneath. Always follow their design requirements. • 36” overall height throughout the kitchen with a removable sink base cabinet and potentially a removable cabinet at a designated work surface area. • 34” overall height throughout the kitchen. • Some guidelines require the 34” overall height include the sink rim. If this is a requirement the countertops should be a reduced thickness vs the cabinetry.
Kitchen & Bath Guide (cont’d) • When the sink is open underneath, an appearance panel or plumbing cover is not a requirement. Plumbing is required to be insulated but not covered. • If the project is cost sensitive it would be best to keep these optional. If it is not cost sensitive, this item provides a nice finished look.
Review #4 Design teams need not indicate all cabinet details, fixtures, switches, controls and their heights and relationships because suppliers and installers include anything required to conform to ADA and state or local codes and ordinances even if not indicated on plans, schedules, or specifications. a) True b) False
Review #4 Design teams need not indicate all cabinet details, fixtures, switches, controls and their heights and relationships because suppliers and installers include anything required to conform to ADA and state or local codes and ordinances even if not indicated on plans, schedules, or specifications. a) True b) False
Review ADA & UD ADA
Universal Design
• Minimum requirements • Not the ideal personal plan • Codes and rules as guidelines not individually related • Clearance and access to being functional from a wide audience
• A way of thinking about design • Thoughtful design that relates to the user of the space based on their own personal needs and/or their family’s needs • Does not have to be restrictive or cost more than a standard approach to design • Works for all ages • A custom solution to a person and their family vs. a one-fitsall solution
Review Having completed this course, the design professional is now able to: • Discuss how accessible design for all user types enhances the lives of people occupying such a space and why it is important to design for all life-stages • Compare and contrast Universal Design with designing for ADA, UFAS and FHA • Identify the principles of UD and explain various design elements, innovations, and strategies for making more accessible, user-friendly spaces • Discuss ADA 2010 standards and identify requirements for various spaces such as bathrooms and kitchen areas
Universal Design and ADA Standards Creating Spaces to Serve All People All the Time MAS06C 1 AIA HSW CE Hour Course fulfills 1 Hour state accessibility/ADA/barrier-free CE requirements © Ron Blank & Associates, Inc. 2014
