The Singapore Government is committed to universal design throughout its building code. The Building and Construction Authority has produced a Universal Design Guide for Public Places which was developed under Singapore’s Successful Ageing project. You can download each chapter separately from the website:
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- Introduction to user needs
- Arriving at the building
- Access around and within the building
- Sanitary facilities
- Wayfinding and information systems
- Facilities and elements within the building
- Family-friendly facilities
There are further chapters covering public transport buildings, eating outlets, supermarkets and retail outlets, parks and open spaces, and community clubs. There is also the Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment.
The Universal Design Guidelines for commercial buildings is presented clearly with many illustrations and drawings. This is a comprehensive guide that goes beyond basic accessibility requirements of previous guidelines. Access consultants might wish to compare this document with the Australian Access to Premises Standard, and the guidelines which can be downloaded from the Human Rights Commission website.
Singapore is keen to progress universal design, and the Building and Construction Authority heads up their webpage with an encouraging title – “Friendly Built Environment”.