What is universal design?

Universal design refers to the concept of creating products and environments that are usable by all people without the need for adaptation or specialized design. This approach takes into account the diverse range of human abilities, ages, and preferences, aiming to provide an inclusive experience. By emphasizing usability for everyone, universal design fosters environments that are more welcoming and functional for individuals with varying needs, thus promoting equity and accessibility in the built environment.

This concept goes beyond just accessibility, which often focuses only on compliance with standards for people with disabilities. Instead, universal design seeks to benefit users universally, creating spaces that accommodate a wider audience. This ensures that everyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities, can engage with and navigate their surroundings effectively.