Accessibility by Building Type: Universal Residential Design

Universal Design is a term used to describe the idea of creating buildings, products, and spaces accessible to older adults, people with disabilities, and people without disabilities. The focus is on creating an all-inclusive environment usable by everyone, regardless of age or physical ability. Today’s designers are challenged by the many rules and regulations in their commercial practice including the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Fair Housing Act (FHA). The application of Universal Design in architecture and construction allows homeowners to continue to live in homes that they love as their physical needs change. This interactive online course addresses why learning universal design considerations – from the initial design concepts through the life-cycle of the home – is necessary. This course will also assist designers and those in the construction industry in providing an educated and sensitive approach when creating design solutions to meet the everyday “lifestyle” challenges of the disabled. ATTN: This educational offering is recognized by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry as satisfying 1 hour of credit toward the required continuing education.