Accessible and sustainable design

Universal design aims for buildings usable by everyone — people of all ages, with prams, with disabilities — without special adaptation. Principles include equitable use, flexibility, simple and intuitive use, perceptible information, tolerance for error, low physical effort, and appropriate size and space for approach and use.

Step-free entry and continuous accessible paths; adequate door widths and circulation space for wheelchairs; accessible bathrooms with correct clearances and grab rails; lever handles; good lighting and contrast; accessible parking; lifts in multi-storey public buildings. Specific dimensions are set by codes and standards (for example the ADA Standards in the US or AS 1428 in Australia) — always use the one that applies.

Reduce demand first (passive design, insulation, airtightness, good glazing), then supply efficiently (heat pumps, efficient lighting and appliances), then generate renewables (solar PV). Save water with efficient fixtures, rainwater harvesting and landscape choices.

Embodied carbon is the emissions from making, transporting and building materials. Reduce it by building less (reuse existing buildings), using efficient structure, choosing lower-carbon materials, and designing for durability, adaptability and disassembly. Rating tools and environmental product declarations (EPDs) help compare options.