Universal Design Principles Applied in Museums’ Historic Buildings

Abstract

Museums represent an architecturally multifaceted typology. Regardless of their variant focus, their current task is to provide an opportunity for cultural, educational, and exploratory experience for all. The accessibility of the physical environment is important, but so is the accessibility of the perception of the exhibition. This paper deals primarily with spatial and design qualities, which determine the degree of inclusion in museums. The principles of Universal Design (UD) are considered in this regard; therefore, the article reviews means of applying these principles in museums theoretically, and also practically, through on-site evaluation using checklists. Specifically, solutions beneficial for inclusion are examined in an outstanding example, the Graz Museum Schlossberg, which demonstrates many inclusive principles.The aim of the article is to support suitable ways to implement UD in museum architecture with a historical background, one which would meet the needs of the largest possible range of visitors and preserve the historical value of architecture. Beneficial ideas from theory and practice should also be applicable in the future and are commented on in the article.

Rzeszow Castle: History and Contemporaneity - proposal for a new interior adaptation

“…This includes adapting the building to meet the needs of the disabled by: adding an elevator (situated to the right of the main entrance) and redesigning hygiene and sanitary facilities -toilets for the disabled on each floor. In accordance with the idea of universal design (Filová, Rollová, Čerešňová, 2022) the building will be made accessible to a wide public of different ages and with different types of physical or disability-related limitations, and utilize contemporary design and technological solutions, including interactive solutions. Ideas discussed in international publications, such as the adaptation of the interiors of historic buildings that allow for showcasing cultural heritage and modern functional programs (Gaczoł, 2015;Janowski Z., Janowski M., 2009) need to be taken into account.…”

Transforming Historic Buildings into Museums: A Case Study of Wellington Museum

“…In the Wellington Museum's case, the exterior of the building underwent high restoration. It is also important to ensure that the structure is stable and that any changes do not affect the building's integrity, particularly as curators may require specific safety measures that may not be typical for older buildings [5].…”