A mindset change and greater buy-in from industry stakeholders is needed if Universal Design is to take flight here in Singapore. More than just addressing the needs of the physically disabled, building designs should meet the needs of users of all ages, sizes and abilities, and also take sensory and mental capabilities into consideration.
These were some of the findings and recommendations of the recently concluded International Panel of Experts on Universal Design (IPE UD).
Singapore, a recognised Universal Design leader
While recognising that Singapore is already a leading country in the field, the IPE proposed further efforts to raise the awareness of the principle and values of Universal Design. It suggested the power of design to minimise limitations be highlighted and programmes put in place to enhance experiences as well as opportunities of the users.
The panel, which comprises international leading experts in Universal Design, convened in Singapore for its first meeting at the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Academy from 22 to 24 March 2010.
The meeting was co-chaired by BCA CEO, Dr John Keung and BCA Board Member, Mr Richard Hassell. International panel members included Mr Francesc Aragall (Spain), President of the Design for All Foundation, Professor Keith Bright (UK), Emeritus Professor of Inclusive Environments, University of Reading, Ms Valerie Fletcher (US), Executive Director, Institute for Human Centered Design, and Dr Satoshi Kose (Japan), Professor, Department of Architecture, Shizuoka University.
Local panel members included Mr Michael Ng, CEO of Architects61 Pte Ltd, Ms Rita Soh, President of the Board of Architects and Professor Wong Yunn Chii, Head of Department of Architecture, School of Design & Environment, National University of Singapore.
For three days, the IPE engaged in rigorous discussions and networking with BCA and key representatives from the public, the private and the people sectors to review the various initiatives under the BCA’s Accessibility Masterplan to drive the adoption of Universal Design.
Universal Design for all
Some interesting topics discussed by the IPE members included the incorporation of the concept “Design for All” in all aspects of the built environment. For example, all elevators should have an avenue to allow a deaf person to communicate in times of emergency, normally via SMS.
Others were interested in the cost of adopting Universal Design for everyday lives, where the perception was that it might not be cost-effective. This was debated by Professor Bright, who believed that the focus should be on the long run, and that additional costs would be incurred if Universal Design is not implemented from the start.
Professor Bright also expressed his views on allowing and maximising opportunities for people to contribute according to their individual abilities, and not to have those opportunities restricted by either poor management and design, or simple incompetence on the part of those who create and maintain public spaces.
Local Universal Design showcase
Visits to local sites that demonstrate good practices were part of the IPE programme. The sites visited were Anchorvale Community Club, Sengkang Sports and Recreation Centre, and two public housing estates - Clementi Green (refurbished) and Sengkang Aspella (new). These on-site visits allowed participants to witness the real-life applications and benefits of Universal Design.
The IPE members highly commended the evident efforts made towards enhancing user-friendliness, and were especially impressed by the attention put into ensuring seamless inter-connectivity.
Global Universal Design practices
A public seminar was also conducted as part of the IPE, attracting a turnout of more than 300 participants. The seminar commenced with BCA chairman Mr Quek See Tiat giving an opening address in which he spoke of the need for a shift in mindset, as well as building relevant capabilities of various stakeholders.
The four overseas IPE members shared the concept of Universal Design and its value to the community while also providing the audience with insights of best global practices.
Closer to home, past winners of BCA’s Universal Design Award - Anchorvale Community Club, Sengkang Sports and Recreation Centre and Alexandra Hospital - shared their strategies on enhancing user-friendliness of the facilities.
BCA’s continuing Universal Design journey
The IPE meeting served as a good platform to review the status quo and seek expert advice on the way forward. It was also an opportunity to engage and inspire the industry through the experts’ sharing of their global experiences and practices.
The experts commended the approach and efforts undertaken by BCA in improving accessibility in the built environment, and driving the adoption of Universal Design. The meeting concluded with a set of key recommendations and directions that BCA will be reviewing in consultation with industry stakeholders and public users.
To learn more about universal design and friendly buildings, please visit BCA's Friendly Built Environment Portal at www.friendlybuildings.sg