Acoustic quality as decisive factor of universal design

Camilla Ryhl, M.Arch, PhD, Professor. Statens Byggforskningsinstitut i Danmark.

The concept of Universal Design is generally used to describe physical access to the built environment by accommodating physical disabilities. However, acoustic quality has shown to be a decisive accessibility factor in enhancing the universal experience of architectural quality.

The talk presents empirical research data on visually and hearing impaired users experiences of architectural space and quality and discusses the lessons to be learned about acoustic quality and stimulation experienced by everyone regardless of sensory ability.