About The Guidelines
The Guidelines are informed by research, a literature review
of national and international best practice and guidance and a
consultation process with key stakeholders.
P
P
The concept of universally designed homes (UD Homes) is described in
the introduction to the guidance.
The design quality guidelines for UD Homes are provided in Sections 14 to
as
sist better understanding of how to incorporate Universal Design into
new housing design.
The guidelines are not intended to be overly prescriptive, but provide a lexible
framework for designers to apply the guidelines creatively to all new home types
through incremental steps described as UD Homes and UD Homes
X
.
Although
the guidelines enhance quality of life for everyone in their homes, they would not
necessarily meet every need to accommodate an individual’s personal factors,
circumstance or choice. Therefore UD Home
X
X
Guidance and design tips are also
provided to raise awareness and assist in person-centred design.
This publication is informed by National Policies developed by the Department of
the Environment, Community and Local Government (DECLG) such as the National
Housing Strategy for People with a Disability 20112016 and the Quality Housing for
Sustainable Communities 2007, the Department of Health’s National Positive Ageing
Strategy and the National Dementia Strategy 2014.
This publication has been co-ordinated with the guidance given in the Technical
Guidance Documents to the Building Regulations but compliance with this
document alone does not confer immunity from compliance with the Building
Regulations.
Engagement with key stakeholders was carried out relecting the diversity of home
occupants, home providers and home designers. It is evident from consultation that
to inspire the change in mindsets that is needed to mainstream Universally Designed
homes in the future, consumer-focused information will be needed to communicate
the Design Guidance, and act as a catalyst for cultural change in new home design.
The guidelines refer to Technical Guidance Documents (TGD’s) such as Part D
Materials and Workmanship, Part K Stairways, Ladders, Ramps and Guard rails, Part
L Conservation of Fuel and Energy – Dwellings and Part M Access and Use, however
we refer the reader to the DECLG website www. http://www.environ.ie/en/ for further
detailed information.
Through the application of UD Homes Guidelines, customised features will be
needed less frequently and therefore less costly, thereby improving the whole
home design and development process for everyone in the future.
3 – Guidelines
Centre for Excellence in Universal Design