Listen: How To Improve Upon ADA Requirements

The success of a building’s operation daily has much more to do with how it works for occupants than it does about the actual supplies or materials itself. Beginning in the early 1990’s, when the ADA was first passed which dramatically improved how accessible buildings are now for all occupants, especially disabled ones. Although, in the architecture world, we more so see a focus on the aesthetic difference rather than the perspective of the occupants utilizing the space daily.

However, because ADA is only a law/building code, it’s importance seems to be of minimal priority which has prompted people like John D’ Angelo, VP Of Facilities Management at Northwestern University to state that for him, “universal design is one of his highest priorities for buildings at Northwestern.” He also makes sure that he includes movable furniture in his strategy as this really enables the flexibility necessary in better accommodating all participating occupants. It really seems like we could all take a page out of John D’ Angelo’s book!