POSTECHHuman System Design Laboratory

Chapter 42 Chapter 42 Universal BathroomsUniversal Bathrooms

2008. 10. 16. Thu.

Kim, Hee-jin

POSTECHHuman System Design Laboratory

ContentsContents

Introduction The Need for a Universal Bathroom Bathroom Research & Design Guidelines Case Conclusion

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IntroductionIntroduction

Universal design is a commitment to designing for all people

Therefore universal design of residential bathrooms should benefit all people living in a home

But they do not support all users equally, and while their designs may improve the functional independence of some people, others experience functional deprivation

These days independent use of the bathroom is very important for all users

Universal bathroom!!

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The Need for a Universal BathroomThe Need for a Universal Bathroom

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[ Today ]

• Advances in medical technology and health care longer lifespan

• Higher survival rates for previously fatal injuries and diseases chronic disabling conditions often result

• The Independent Living movement Everyone wants to be independent in the bathroom

[ In 1900 ]

• Life expectancy was 44 • Assistance in the bathroom did

not become a factor of the early design

• The concept of early bathroom design centered on independent use and use in complete privacy

Bathroom users today are vastly different from the users when the bathroom first originated

POSTECHHuman System Design Laboratory

Bathroom Research & Design Bathroom Research & Design GuidelinesGuidelines The Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental

Access(IDEA) conducted bathroom study “Listening to People”

Listening to People• Interviewed 30 consumers about bathroom use and bathroom

products

(Independent users, dependent users, care providers of different ages, sexes, races, and physical conditions)

• Examined the need, importance, and benefits of universal design in the bathroom

• Doors, Grooming Area, Toilet Area, Bath and Shower Area, Safety, Usability, Appearance, Personalization

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Bathroom Research & Design Bathroom Research & Design GuidelinesGuidelines National Kitchen and Bath Association

• The National Kitchen and Bath Association(NKBA) developed 41 bathroom design guidelines based on the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards(UFAS) and the American National Standard Institute’s ANSI A117.1.

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CaseCase

Metaform Bathroom

• By HMRC (Herman Miller Research Corporation)• To provide greater flexibility, safety, convenience, and independence

for people of all ages and abilities (children, able-bodied adult, older people, and people with disabilities)

• Make up of modular components and moving parts, the bathroom system can be easily transformed as people’s needs change over time

• Consists of the lavatory, toilet, and bathing node…

• Was exhibited at the Unlimited by Design show in 1997• The Industrial Designers Society of America recognized it with a gold

award & published it as a good example of universal design

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CaseCase

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Consist of self-contained, height-adjustable assembly (sink, work surface, storage, lighting, mirrors)

Lavatory

Height-adjustable

Unimpeded knee access

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CaseCase

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Toilet

Consist of a toilet that adjust automatically in height to facilitate transfer and use by small children, tall adults, and people with disabilities

Foldaway arms to facilitate transfer

Rotated into a cavity & self-cleaned

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ConclusionConclusion

The bathroom is one of the most important places in the home and all members of the family need to be able to use it

Independent use of the bathroom is very important for all users

Universal bathrooms • must be for all people• consider the range of users• provide choices for different needs• accommodate everyone at all times• must embrace new technology – to provide a dynamic bathroom environment that adapts to people’

changing condition– allows customize their environment– offer a high degree of safety, security, usability, independence, and

satisfaction to all users

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Appendix_ Listening to PeopleAppendix_ Listening to People

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POSTECHHuman System Design Laboratory

Appendix _ Listening to PeopleAppendix _ Listening to People

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