Research
The Alliance focuses on research to generate new knowledge and support evidence-based design for advancing Inclusive Design in the built environment. This broad goal will encompass research initiatives that advance our five central aims.
Examples of potential activities and research projects the Alliance may pursue include, but are not limited to:
Revise the 7 Principles of Universal Design
Discussions during the symposium underscored agreement on the need to revise and build upon the 7 Principles of Universal Design – which were primarily based on product-design and physical accessibility.
Supporting the Building Equity Standard
A new practitioner resource called the Building Equity Standard is currently being administered and piloted by Steven Winter Associates, Inc. A first version is being developed that encompasses lessons earned through application. The Standard includes both a framework for engaging end-users and communities during design and a set of guidelines for embedding equity in the design of the built environment.
Design for Aging
Among other issues, the Alliance is interested in pursuing research related to Inclusive Design and aging populations. Potential focus areas could include wayfinding for public transit; measuring outcomes of universally designed spaces (i.e. dementia care communities); and facilitating aging-in-place retrofits.
Academic Curriculum Development
Most professional architecture programs address inclusion simply through ADA compliance. This Alliance seeks to update this approach, both within academic programs and advocate for broader inclusion with the accrediting bodies of the programs.
Research and Special Projects
- NC State Research Brief
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This research seeks to forward the conversation on health equity by exploring the design of the built environment using the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) as a guiding framework. Under a 3-year study funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Interdisciplinary Research Leaders Program, the project seeks to understand how the design of a hybrid elementary school/YMCA located in an under-resourced area of Southeast Raleigh, North Carolina impacts the physical and mental health of a community. - Spring 2024 Symposium
For more information about the Spring 2024 Symposium, In Pursuit of Equity: A Symposium to Re-envision the Center for Universal Design, including recordings of the sessions, transcripts, and bios of the speakers, visit the College webpage. - Research Brief of VL’s DissertationLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Maecenas venenatis, arcu et pharetra pharetra, urna ante efficitur mi, sit amet dignissim risus mauris at ante.
Explore more insights and scholarship through our latest publications and presentations.