X4 = Client involvement

Working with Universal Design is relatively new in the danish building and construction sector and it is correspondingly new for designers and architects to have to convince an owner/contractor about the importance of Universal Design.

The arguments for investing in an inclusive building project must be presented in the initial project phases. The client must understand why it is important to work with Universal Design solutions: that such solutions will not necessarily make the project more expensive, but on the contrary, they may help future-proof a project and avoid costly user-adaptation in the future.

Universal Design legitimacy and relevance become understandable if you present examples of successful existing solutions. As advisors to a client, our job is to make sure that Universal Design is incorporated in programme specifcations, i.e. incorporated as a request in the design and performance of a project.

Use the checklist on the right to get owners/ contractors to understand the relationship between accessibility and Universal Design solutions, and see the fnancial and environmental benefts Universal Design can bring. e Contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals

8.5

Achieve full employment and decent work with equal pay. 11.1

Ensure safe and affordable housing.

e Checklist for project-relevant user groups

Give examples of successful, existing Universal Design solutions. Negotiate additional accessibility. Qualify for the “God Adgang” (good access) labelling scheme or other relevant schemes.

Qualify for these DGNB certifcations:

SOC2.1 Universal Design SOC3.2 Integrated Public Art SOC3.3 Layout Quality Qualify for DGNB-Ekstra certifcations (Heart/Diamond).

Notes/Evaluation

e Senses

Communication - dissemination of information can be vital for us all. Important information can be made clearer through the senses.