Applying Universal Design to the Wisconsin’s Veterans Home at King
Mentor 1
Nisha A. Fernando
Location
Union Wisconsin Room
Start Date
24-4-2015 10:30 AM
End Date
24-4-2015 11:45 AM
Description
The challenge of this design project was to renovate the Wisconsin’s Veterans Home at King in Waupaca, Wisconsin, by improving accessibility and comfort for all users. Creating an environment that reflected the serene and natural landscape was an important concept. The project included extensive research, case studies and hands-on experiments to produce a final design for the remodel of the two buildings. The multi-use building was redesigned to improve circulation and aesthetic quality. Incorporating Braille railings, non-slip flooring, wide-open areas and adjustable table heights created a healthier space for all users. A ramped tunnel was designed to connect the Commandant’s center with the Marden center, allowing safe and convenient mobility between the two. Using environmentally-friendly materials from a minimal range of companies lowered the buildings carbon footprint and toxic indoor emissions. Much of the existing quality furniture was incorporated throughout the design. The renovation included a new color palette to eliminate the institutional impression it previously conveyed. Along with universal design, this project used a low budget and resources, which in turn, produced much safer environment and considerably happier clients. Interiors can have incredible influence on people, so giving each user sufficient access is vital. Failing to do so could be considered discrimination, which is a very important social consideration in the 21st century. Universal design is an important aspect that needs to be implemented in every building.
Applying Universal Design to the Wisconsin’s Veterans Home at King
Union Wisconsin Room
The challenge of this design project was to renovate the Wisconsin’s Veterans Home at King in Waupaca, Wisconsin, by improving accessibility and comfort for all users. Creating an environment that reflected the serene and natural landscape was an important concept. The project included extensive research, case studies and hands-on experiments to produce a final design for the remodel of the two buildings. The multi-use building was redesigned to improve circulation and aesthetic quality. Incorporating Braille railings, non-slip flooring, wide-open areas and adjustable table heights created a healthier space for all users. A ramped tunnel was designed to connect the Commandant’s center with the Marden center, allowing safe and convenient mobility between the two. Using environmentally-friendly materials from a minimal range of companies lowered the buildings carbon footprint and toxic indoor emissions. Much of the existing quality furniture was incorporated throughout the design. The renovation included a new color palette to eliminate the institutional impression it previously conveyed. Along with universal design, this project used a low budget and resources, which in turn, produced much safer environment and considerably happier clients. Interiors can have incredible influence on people, so giving each user sufficient access is vital. Failing to do so could be considered discrimination, which is a very important social consideration in the 21st century. Universal design is an important aspect that needs to be implemented in every building.
