Using the 7 Principles of Universal Design for Specifying Windows and Glass Doors  

The world is changing quickly, both in demographics and in our awareness and acceptance of changing demographics. While homes and products were once designed for easy use primarily by persons with full abilities, there is growing awareness that homes and products should serve people of all abilities whenever possible. This trend started with legislation to make public buildings accessible to disabled people, but has now expanded to include use by many people of all ages and abilities, both physical and mental. This concept is known as universal design. This course examines the difference between universal design and accessibility required by law, and lists the types of people of varied abilities who benefit from universal design, particularly as it applies to homes. We then take a look at the 7 Principles of Universal Design, as developed by the North Carolina State University’s College of Design, and explore examples of each, from windows set low enough to offer views to a person in a wheelchair, to sliding doors that open with a touch to accommodate those with arthritis or other challenges. Finally, we look at the business side of universal design and discussing the principles with clients.