FUNCTIONAL INTERIORS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS 4(2+2)

Lesson 12 : Accessible Design - Major Design Considerations

Mobility

Hard surfaces are best for wheelchairs since surfaces such as loose gravel and shag carpets, loose earth, make travel difficult. For people who are visually impaired, rope trails with spaces for cross traffic can be helpful in bad weather or when crossing large open spaces, such as fields. Different textures of soil, grass, gravel, and corner-marking stones can also be used to mark paths without rails for people who are visually impaired.

Steep grades and uneven ground can be leveled in frequently traveled areas. Proper drainage is necessary to prevent mud and erosion. Other types of travel machines can be modified too, including 3-wheel motor bikes, bicycles, etc.

Below is given an example plan and features for an accessible house (Figure – 1)