Visitability

Visitability

Visitability is a concept that promotes the design and construction of buildings to be accessible and welcoming to people of all ages and abilities. It aims to create an inclusive environment that allows individuals with mobility impairments to visit and navigate buildings independently, without encountering barriers or obstacles.

History

The concept of visitability emerged in the late 1980s as a response to the lack of accessibility in many residential buildings. It was initially championed by disability rights advocates who recognized the need for inclusive housing options. Visitability gained traction as a way to address the limitations of traditional accessibility standards, which often focused solely on wheelchair accessibility.

Key Principles

Visitability is based on three key principles:

1. Zero-step entrance: The main entrance of a visitable building should have a level or ramped entrance, with no steps or barriers. This allows individuals using mobility aids, such as wheelchairs or walkers, to enter the building easily.

2. Wider doorways and hallways: Visitability promotes wider doorways and hallways to accommodate individuals with mobility aids. The recommended minimum width for doorways is 32 inches (81 cm), while hallways should be at least 36 inches (91 cm) wide.

3. Accessible bathroom on the main floor: Visitability emphasizes the inclusion of an accessible bathroom on the main floor of a building. This bathroom should have sufficient space to maneuver a wheelchair, grab bars, and other accessibility features.

Benefits

The implementation of visitability principles offers several benefits:

1. Inclusion and independence: Visitability allows individuals with mobility impairments to visit and navigate buildings independently, promoting their inclusion in various social and community activities.

2. Flexibility and adaptability: Visitability features, such as zero-step entrances and wider doorways, benefit not only individuals with mobility impairments but also parents with strollers, delivery personnel, and anyone carrying heavy items.

3. Future-proofing: Incorporating visitability principles during the design and construction phase of a building ensures that it remains accessible as individuals' needs change over time. This reduces the need for costly retrofits in the future.

Implementation and Challenges

Implementing visitability principles requires collaboration between architects, builders, and policymakers. While visitability is not yet a mandatory requirement in many building codes, it is increasingly being recognized and encouraged as a best practice.

However, there are challenges to widespread adoption. Some builders may perceive visitability features as costly or aesthetically unappealing. Additionally, existing buildings may face limitations in retrofitting to meet visitability standards due to structural constraints.

See Also

• Universal Design
• Accessible Design
• Barrier-Free Design