What Do We Understand by Disability in Architectural Design?
Disability is not a limitation confined to a few people; it is actually a part of human life that everyone will experience at some point, whether temporarily or permanently. You may wonder what kind of common ground exists between architecture and disabilities, but isn’t architecture ultimately about human comfort? So, what does architecture and design for people with disabilities truly mean?
Architecture is about creating environments for users – it exists to be experienced by them. Around the world, architects have designed projects for differently-abled individuals. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities aims to promote, protect, and ensure equal rights and dignity. But how often do we notice a barrier to accessibility or consider the ease of travel?
In countries like Finland – for example, in the city of Helsinki – developments have been made in public transport by adding short ramps to tram stops that are level with the low-floor vehicles. Similarly, low-floor buses in Beijing, China and New Delhi, India have improved travel convenience for disabled users.
Architects have begun raising awareness about disabilities. In 2013, architects such as Zaha Hadid Architects, Adjaye Associates, AMODELS, and many more participated in fundraising events like the "Miniature Buildings" auctions. These architects, who work with grand scales daily, came together and devoted their time to design in miniature scale for the cause of disability – an admirable effort now linked with a new style called "Dollhouse Architecture."
There have been many architectural works that support people with disabilities. One such piece is the Laurent House, designed in 1952 by architect Frank Lloyd Wright – a home made for someone with disabilities. Though it was the only building he designed specifically for a person with a disability, the Usonian house is expected to soon be transformed into a museum.
In recent years, various types of buildings – from healthcare centers to schools and housing – have been built with a focus on accessibility, essentially covering all building types. An interesting residence in this category is Maison Bordeaux, built four years after the Laurent House by architect Rem Koolhaas. Located on a hill with panoramic city views, this multi-level project is unforgettable.
“Contrary to what you might expect, I don’t want a simple house. I want a complex house because it will define my world.”
— Jean Francois Lemoine, client
Koolhaas rose to the challenge and amazed everyone with details that strayed from traditional design. The design made movement for a wheelchair user easy across the home’s three levels and even included a lift platform as large as a room – essentially a fully equipped office in itself. The house was also featured in an architectural documentary called Houselife, narrated by the long-time housekeeper of the estate.
These designs are not limited to residential spaces. We all know the Paralympic Games, and just like in sports, a barrier-free environment is essential not only for training but also for maintaining health. In 2012, Baldinger Architectural Studio designed a 45,000-square-foot Sports & Fitness Center for people with disabilities – one of the few such centers in the United States. The concept was self-explanatory and the campus was designed around the idea of a “total environment” that offers full freedom of movement.
Good design doesn’t just provide a simple space; it plays with different materials and textures. A successful example of this can be seen in a school in Glasgow. Designed by Alan Dunlop of Alan Dunlop Architects, Hazelwood School serves children with dual sensory impairments.
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Content: Tasarım Group
