Resumen de Universal accessibility: on the need of an empathy-based architecture
Universal Accessibility: On the need of an empathy-based architecture is a PhD thesis researching the paradigm of accessible architectural design. Starting from the very first understanding of accessibility in architecture, it analyses the evolution of the concept over recent decades up to the present, in order to evaluate its current significance. The assumption of this dissertation is that all current theories concerning accessibility in architecture are not properly approached and/or they are poorly linked to architectural practice, since the main postulate of this thesis is that the quality of built environments is poor in respect to accessibility. Therefore, this thesis aims to point out the main problems that accessible designs face nowadays and, more importantly, to rationalize why this situation must be reversed while also exploring the tools for doing this.
Accessibility standards were defined decades ago and are continuously being updated to more precise and restrictive regulations, aiming at higher compliance for fully accessible¿thus, non-discriminating¿designs. Hence, we cannot deny the existence of abundant literature concerning how to design accessible built environments. Nevertheless, the fact is that the quality of designs in respect to accessibility is doubtful on many occasions. The regulations give plenty of instructions on how to design the built environment to be `wheelchair friendly¿ and have also recently introduced tools for being `blind friendly¿, but they have not adopted a design for all understanding, at least, not in a way that is holistically inclusive. Indeed, many current accessible designs are not designs meant for all, but just mere differentiated `designs for the disabled¿ that do not form a part of the whole `normal¿ environment. Consequently, non-disabled people rarely use them, even when they are more practical, because they do not identify themselves with such segregated `designs for the disabled¿.
In this respect, accessibility needs to evolve from the current simplistic view of barrier-free environments towards a more inclusive approach. Accessibility should be understood as comprehending higher existential needs such as pleasantness and identity; that is, it must take into consideration how we perceive and experience the built environment. This is crucial for the psychological wellbeing of the users. We all need belonging, to feel part of and not separated from society and our environment; we need a sense of normality. Thus, the premise of this dissertation is that an empathic approach is necessary for designing an accessible built environment that goes beyond the regular barrier-free requirements, beyond functionality and usability concerns. Empathy is essential to satisfy the `supra-functional needs¿, those social, emotional, spiritual, aspirational and cultural aspects that are relevant to all of us equally. Herein lies the real pleasure, the sense of wellbeing and perception of a good life. Empathy is the key and starting point for defeating the `design for the disabled¿ and for success in achieving inclusive architecture. If we do so, we will be looking at long-term designs that are able to healthfully support needs that cover a human lifespan. Thus, sustainable designs which provide quality of life. If this is achieved, some standardized behaviours and prejudices against people with disabilities will simultaneously be defeated.
To sum up, this thesis is a general reflection regarding the paradigm of accessible architecture, observed from different points of views, and arriving at some final thoughts. Thus, this thesis is not so much about giving instructions on how to build accessible architecture, but it instead reflects on 'why' it is necessary. This dissertation attempts to change attitudes regarding accessibility, so that is truly embraced as designing architecture for all; that is, architecture in which sustainability and social justice in all design is ensured.
