What does universal design aim to achieve?

Universal design aims to create environments, products, and experiences that are accessible and usable by individuals of all abilities and disabilities. This approach considers a wide range of human diversity in terms of age, ability, size, and other factors, striving to eliminate barriers that might hinder people's access or participation.

By focusing on inclusivity, universal design seeks to ensure that all people can navigate and engage with their surroundings comfortably and effectively. This means that features such as ramps, wide doorways, tactile surfaces, and clear signage are integral components of universal design, promoting independent use for everyone.

The emphasis on accessibility distinguishes universal design from options that might limit access exclusivity or focus solely on aesthetics or profit maximization. While an aesthetically pleasing design can be part of universal design, the primary goal is to foster an inclusive environment. Therefore, the pursuit of spaces that accommodate individuals across various abilities is at the core of universal design's purpose.