Beyond the Checklist: Why Universal Design is More Than Just Code Compliance

As access consultants, we often encounter a common misconception among clients and people in the construction industry: that meeting codes and accessibility standards is enough to ensure inclusivity. While compliance with regulations like AS 1428.1:2021 and the Building Code of Australia (BCA) is essential, it is only the starting point.

Accessibility in real life comes from embracing universal design – a proactive, people-first approach that creates environments that are usable, welcoming, safe, intuitive and empowering for everyone, regardless of age, gender, ability or circumstances.

What is Universal Design?

Universal design is the process of creating environments that accessibility from the outset, rather than retrofitting them at a later stage. It talks about designing spaces, products and systems in a way that accommodates the widest range of users. This user group not only includes people with disabilities but also children, older adults and people suffering from temporary impairments or injuries. This could even include a parent pushing a pram or an elderly person walking with a cane.

Beyond Code Compliance: Ensuring True Accessibility

The building codes and standards provide us with a baseline to prevent exclusion. However, this does not necessarily mean they promote inclusion. For example:

• Signage may tick the regulatory box but fail to consider readability for people with low vision or cognitive disabilities.
• Ramps are built to varying slopes in different parts of the world. They might be compliant but still difficult to use independently.

Advantages of Universal Design

Universal Design is not just good design, it’s smart business. Some advantages of a space with Universal Design principals incorporated include:

• Wider reach: Inclusive spaces invite a wider audience, including adults, children and people with different abilities, making a business more profitable.
• Reduced retrofitting costs: Designing spaces to be accessible from the beginning will reduce the cost of expensive modifications.
• Future proofing: Designing with the future in mind means creating environments that remain inclusive as accessibility needs grow and change.

Designing that makes an impact

Consider a pathway that is 1,000m wide (the bare minimum as per standards) – originally designed for people using wheelchairs, but can also be used for strollers, grocery trolleys and other delivery work. An automatic door with clear circulation benefits not just a wheelchair user, but a person pushing a trolley or pram, or just someone carrying bulky stuff. These basic features show how universal design can create better experiences for all.

Let’s lead with intention 

At Jensen Hughes, we believe accessibility should be embedded in every project, from a small house to large public spaces such as sports stadiums and airports. Spaces should not just be designed to tick the check box, but as a commitment to equality and usability. By championing Universal Design, we are not just meeting standards, we are setting them.

Let us raise the bar from basic compliance to a truly inclusive design. Designing for everyone is not optional, it is essential.