The concept that space or information must be accessible to persons with disabilities is strictly connected to the UN 2007 Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Hence, the subject of accessibility not only should be taken into consideration because of the laws providing for it but also because accessibility - pursuant to the laws - is a right.
For visually disabled persons, in particular, accessibility is obtained through different helps: communication, description of places and signaling dangers and services.
Unfortunately, in people's mind, architectural barriers are still related to persons with reduced mobility and visual disabilities are often neglected. Equipping a public building with tactile maps and paving allows blind and visually impaired persons to receive complete information about the services offered by the structure, and to walk around without any help . Each map briefly describe the existing surrounding elements and is strictly connected to tactile pavings. Our resources and our know-how, for overcoming sensory barriers, allow us to forge synergies with engineering and architecture firms to carry out an inclusive design.
Designing for all is a concept that goes beyond that of simply removing architectural and sensory barriers, it means putting people and their characteristics at the center of the design idea. In addition to existing regulations, where consistently applied, let's try to identify the best practices to be adopted when we want to design an inclusive space or a building. This is a list of what should be taken into consideration in order to promote equal opportunities and design without discriminating anyone:
1 - Respond to criteria of physical accessibility (avoid architectural barriers or obstacles to mobility such as steps, differences in height, confined spaces and any dangerous condition)
2 - Respond to criteria of sensory accessibility (avoid sensory barriers such as obstacles that prevent the recognition of places and orientation)
3 - Respond to criteria of accessibility to communication (avoid elements that do not allow access to information and communication for blind, partially sighted and deaf people )
4 - Having a single entrance accessible to all, immediately recognizable and comfortable in its use. No distinctions should be made between persons with and whithout disabilities
5 - Providing for common connecting paths both horizontal and vertical. One or more unhindered ways for the use of all persons, just like lifts or other systems allowing to go from one level to another
6 – Providing services and spaces with clear and friendly multisensory signs helping the greater number of persons tolocate places and functions
7 – Always considering safety for all when spaces and emergency exits are designed
8 – Never forget the inclusive management of spaces and services, because the real inclusion covers not only spaces but also the way services are provided.
