Systemic Approach to Universal Design of Urban Spaces - Case Study of Trbovlje, Slovenia

Stud Health Technol Inform. 2022 Sep 2:297:177-184. doi: 10.3233/SHTI220837.

Abstract

The study consisted of examining universal design principles and applying selected interventions with the goal of solving accessibility issues in the settlement of Trbovlje. As a result of the investigative process and the layered spatial data concerning universal design theory, it was possible to propose the dynamics for the implementation of the design solutions. Deliberate selection of only specific universal design features as a pragmatic decision is what ensures the proposed solution's real-world application value. Subdividing a wholistic design into temporal phases secures a more feasible and pragmatic approach to reach the end goal while still preserving the full functionality of each individual phase immediately and thus its effectiveness. Such a systemic approach is proposed as a way of creating a more focused overview of the settlement, making a better design for the solution of specific issues, assessing these solutions, and implementing them in selected places. This approach and thinking present itself as a good method of granting universal accessibility that could be adopted as a mandatory part of any urban plan.

Keywords: accessibility; inclusivity; phase design; spatial plan; universal design.

MeSH terms

  • Slovenia
  • Universal Design*