Common perception is that accessible design is ugly and often builders and architects think accessible elements distract from good architecture. Countless times I hear concern that accessibility will result in utilitarian design that is only appropriate for hospitals and housing for the elderly. But we at Accessibility Services know, with thoughtful and careful planning, accessible design can be beautiful.
Recently our staff had the opportunity to redesign an entrance for a major New York state regional mall. This proved a perfect opportunity to showcase how accessible features can enhance design.
The original entrance was found non compliant and mall management desired an entrance that would be accessible to all its visitors. Accessibility Services surveyed the site and determined a ramp was required to connect accessible parking spaces to an entrance 27 inches above the finish grade of the parking lot. This new ramp would replace an impassable 9 inch curb and 18 percent steep sidewalk.
Two schemes for an accessible ramp were proposed by our team. The goal of both schemes was to blend a ramp into the existing architecture while still meeting all local and federal accessibility requirements.
One scheme proposed a planter between the parking lot and the accessible route. The planter would replace existing bollards that protected pedestrians from traffic. The planter was more visual appealing than the bollards and also partially hid hand rails and provided required edge protection. Generous landings were provided at both the top and bottom of the ramp. The last few inches of elevation were overcome with a gentle slope that blended seamlessly with an adjacent sidewalk.
Fearful any ramp would visually and functionally block the mall entrance; a second scheme was developed without the planter and further from the accessible parking and entrance. A rendering provided by Accessibility Services convinced management that the initial scheme was visually inviting and more functional for a greater variety of shoppers.
Accessibility Services met with various contractors and helped our client bid and settle on an experienced builder. The plan was quickly executed with a dedicated staff member who routinely inspected the construction to insure complicate construction.
The final result is not only beautiful and in harmony with the existing architecture, but functional. The entrance is now accessible not just for persons with disabilities, but for everyone. Upon a recent visit to the site, the ramp has become a primary thoroughfare for the elderly, expecting mothers, and families with strollers.
Should you have any questions about the ramp design, please feel free to contact Jimmy Zuehl, Architectural Specialist, Accessibility Services, at jzuehl@unitedspinal.org.
