Content area
Full text
In her own words...an insider's look at the market.
Imagine a world where everything from lighting and fixtures to hallways and entryways is designed to meet the needs of all people with various abilities and limitations: young and old, short and tall, healthy and infirm. Such spaces exist, thanks to an architectural concept known as Universal Design (UD), which is fast becoming the latest design trend in Southern California architecture, commercial and residential development.
The following examples of UD to create a barrier-free environment touch on seven principles:
Equitable Use. Family toilet rooms allow access for any family member needing assistance. Most people prefer the single larger private restroom to a cramped "able-bodied" stall.
Flexibility. Adjustable work counters allows one to customize the height of his or her work area.
Simple and Intuitive. Furniture assembly without text.
Perceptible Information. Closed-caption decoders in TV sets that allow users to read the text.
Tolerance for Error. Software programs that include a fail safe, "Are you sure you want to delete this information?"
Low Physical Effort. Voice recognition computer technology: it...