Universal Design is designing for the human experience.
Community Vision’s involvement in Universal Design comes from our work on community building projects. We would ask, “How can we make sure new buildings and spaces are as inclusive as possible?”
We offer presentations, consultations, tours, and our Universal Design Guidebook to share what we have learned.
Please feel free to contact us if you or your organization would like to learn more.
Universal Design Guidebook
When we follow Universal Design principles, we create buildings and spaces that welcome and dignify people of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds as much as possible.
We have created our Universal Design Guidebook with our partner Bora Architecture & Interiors. The guidebook introduces housing developers, architects, policy makers, home builders, and other interested individuals to the principles and practices of Universal Design.
The Guidebook describes:
- The basics of Universal Design (UD) tools
- How UD can be used to create spaces that empower and benefit all users
- Why UD matters
- The importance of planning for full accessibility in the design phase
- How to develop an inclusive UD project
- Specific examples of how to easily put UD into practice
Please fill out the form to receive a link to download our Universal Design Guidebook.
More about Universal Design
“Universal Design is design that is usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.”
—Ronald L. Mace
Universal Design strategies breakdown barriers. They prompt social change through inclusive and dignifying design.
Universal Design:
- Benefits all people
- Creates better long-term value
- Is much less expensive to plan for from the beginning than to retrofit
Community Vision’s Seven Corners Collaborative building in Southeast Portland follows Universal Design principles.
Buildings featuring Universal Design are:
- More adaptable as people age in place
- Supportive of diverse abilities
- Easier for everyone to use
The kitchen in the Seven Corners Collaborative is one example of many in the building where you can see Universal Design in practice.
We love to give tours of the Universal Design features of our building. You can watch a virtual tour of the Seven Corners Collaborative on YouTube. Or contact us to schedule an in-person visit.
Contact
If you would like to schedule a tour, consultation, or presentation on Universal Design, please contact Director of Strategic Partnerships Jill Cabral-Schinn at jill@cvision.org.
