"I would like to know your views regarding the creation of spaces for blind people," a reader from India writes. "Of course there should be the provision for barrier-free and free-flowing spaces, but can you suggest more ideas...?"
Good question. Universal design means designing buildings that meet the needs of people with a wide range of abilities... including those who are blind or who have limited vision. The architect and interior designer will need to incorporate a variety of tactile cues to act as landmarks so that persons who cannot see will be able to orient themselves. Bright colors, wall murals, and changes in illumination will also help persons whose vision is impaired. Our resources page for Universal Design has links to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities. Accessible Design for the Blind offers an extensive listing of resources to help in the design of streets and pedestrian walkways.
Are architects and interior designers doing enough? You tell us.