UNIVERSAL DESIGN

Universal design is a relatively new concept that emerged from both accessibility codes and assistive technology.  The fundamental belief is that products, communications and environments should be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.  Universal design strives to be a broad-spectrum solution that benefits everyone, not just people with disabilities, and it recognizes the importance of blending aesthetics with function.

Ron Mace founded The Center for Universal Design in 1989.  While there were prior efforts to address accessibility concerns in the 1960's thru 1980's (1968 Achitectural Barriers Act, 1973 section 504 Rehabilitation Act, 1984 UFAS, 1988 Fair Housing Amendments Act) they often conflicted with other legislations and requirements.  So when the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted in 1990, it was essentially the first to codify enforceable minimum/maximum standards.  Interestingly Universal Design pre-dates the 1990 ADA.  Ron recognized that the ADA did not always address every person's abilities or disabilities and, as an architect, believed that the designs ought to be creative expressions for creating inclusive environments.

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Since designing the nation’s first apartment building to incorporate Universal Design in 2006, these principles continue to serve as the foundation in all that we do.  Zipfel Design Group believes Universal Design is not merely a set of rules and requirements but rather a moral compass that promotes socially-responsible design.  Design that accommodate every person, no matter their abilities or limitations, is just simply the right thing to do.