Universal Design as the Basis of Forming an Accessible Architectural Environment of Modern Cities

Abstract

The article examines the problems of creating an accessible architectural environment in Ukrainian cities. The relevance of the study is determined by: a large percentage of people with disabilities in the structure of the population of Ukraine, including people with disabilities, an increase in their number as a result of hostilities; lack of accessibility conditions for low-mobility population groups in most settlements; lack of understanding by society of the complex problem of accessibility; absence at local levels (in local administrations) of a clear algorithm of actions to ensure the accessibility of the architectural and urban planning environment. The purpose of the article is to reveal the role of universal design as a basis for the formation of an accessible architectural environment of modern cities.
 Universal design is a cost-effective approach, because it meets the needs of all users already at the initial stage of development and design and eliminates future irrational costs. The concept of universal design provides not only architectural accessibility to the building, but also the ergonomics of all elements of the object-spatial environment, the physical and psychological comfort of being in the architectural environment, and promotes the social integration of people with disabilities.
 Universal design in the field of architecture and urban planning and the formation of an accessible architectural environment is a process that begins with the designer's awareness of his own social responsibility for the formation of the level of comfort of the living environment that people experience throughout their lives, with its orientation to the variety of needs, opportunities and experiences of users.
 The application of the principles of Universal design and the corresponding architectural and design methods of their implementation are currently the optimal means of adapting the architectural and urban planning environment to the needs and capabilities of all categories of users, including those with limited mobility. The publication analyzes in detail the importance of many specific techniques for the formation of an accessible architectural environment: the absence of stairs, a wide entrance with sliding doors, adaptability of workplace equipment, convenient control panels, presentation of information in an easy-to-understand format (in the form of symbols, icons, infographics), tactile contrasting color coating.
 The main obstacles on the way to the application of the principles of Universal Design and the formation of an accessible architectural environment of Ukrainian cities are the low level of social awareness of citizens, as well as the insufficient level of funding.