Accessibility Design Appraisals

What is an Accessibility Design Appraisal?

Accessibility Design Appraisals are a review of the architectural drawings of a project from their early stages through to the detailed design stage to assess their compliance with accessibility standards and best practice guidance. The appraisal involves an assessment of a design in line with inclusivity to meet the needs of all users.

The appraisal looks closely at the way a project is designed and how it will be delivered, allowing our team to offer advice on the existing statutory requirements, best practice guidance and accessibility solutions that make a real difference to the user.

The appraisal aims to identify potential barriers and propose solutions for removing them, enabling access to a broader spectrum of customers. This spectrum includes individuals who might otherwise be disadvantaged in accessing the services provided by your premises. In offering inclusive design our clients are making their facilities desirable to a greater number of people, allowing them to increase the number of customers to their premises.

Why do you Need Accessibility Design Appraisals?

An Accessibility Design Appraisal ensures the incorporation of diversity and inclusivity as a mindset at the critical design stage. Performing an assessment that puts inclusivity and diversity at the forefront at this stage allows for management of risk and for opportunities to be identified early in the process. This assessment allows our clients to build a full picture of their customers and their requirements, in order to meet inclusive design standards and ensure accessibility for all.

Experienced Access Auditors

Our Accessibility Team is led by our NRAC registered Access Auditor with credentials listed here. Our consultants have worked on a variety of projects ranging from the installation of new lifts to the construction of new buildings and the refurbishment of listed buildings. Whilst working with local authorities and train operators, the team also has a portfolio of projects that include community buildings, railway stations, and a broad range of car parking facilities.

Community Links

Our team have well established links with charities and support groups for people with disabilities, who share their user experience, offer advice on design constraints and solutions and complete awareness training. We encourage the involvement of these user groups in design reviews and approvals, to ensure we achieve the best solutions to the daily challenges of access encountered by a wide spectrum of people, and offer a design that is considered and inclusive.

Accessibility Design Appraisal services

As part of an Accessibility Appraisal, our team visits our clients’ premises or potential premises to familiarise themselves with any existing site constraints. The team reviews the drawings and provides a list of specific design considerations along with the relevant accessibility regulations and guidance. They will work with the designers throughout the design stages to communicate solutions that will improve the accessibility and inclusivity of the design.