In this contemporary world, Inclusivity has become the most extensively used term while designing buildings. With the vision of incorporating each and every group of people to use the building safely and with ease, inclusivity has become a mandatory factor that should be considered while designing a building. Besides, inclusivity and accessibility are also being used as intelligent business strategies. Be it the digital products or the physical world, a new paradigm shift towards designing for inclusivity is seen worldwide. This article explains the business side of inclusive architecture and how it can enhance business opportunities and open doors for reaching a larger customer base.
Inclusive Architecture- A Superpower
The term “Inclusive Architecture” is not as vague as it may sound and does not require any expensive or special considerations for a building to be inclusive. It mainly involves acknowledging the limitations of one’s perspective and seeking advice from those who have different lived experiences (Hirons). Hence, a few adjustments to the existing layout, without significant investment, can make a vast difference in the design so that everyone, regardless of any physical or mental disabilities, can use the space independently. Features such as ramps, elevators, and wider doorways are some elements seen in Inclusive Architecture.
Architecture for all- Reaching out to more people
Inclusive Architecture is more likely to attract a greater number of customers to utilize the space compared to general architecture. A vibrant space with the capacity to accommodate individuals with disabilities not only appeals to people with disabilities but also to their families and companions. The comfortable environment, coupled with the ability to accommodate individuals of all kinds, unquestionably enhances both the design and business prospects. For instance, a restaurant design featuring inclusive toilets, easy ramp access, comfortable and well-placed furniture, and adequate clearances, is expected to attract more customers than a typical restaurant. Exceptional architecture compels everyone to feel comfortable and secure in the space, thereby broadening the range of business possibilities.
Safeguarding Investments
Inclusive architecture, although widely used nowadays, is still considered a futuristic term by some people or in certain places. Some conservative societies have not yet been able to grasp the complexities of not making architecture inclusive. Hence, the buildings designed with these features are not just aiming to provide a comfortable environment for all but are also being prepared for the future. The seemingly substantial initial investment helps save a large sum of money down the line. People, when they realize the need for inclusive architecture in the future, might face the problem of costly retrofits and amendments to the design itself, which can be more expensive than the initial investment and can also result in disruption in operations, ultimately leading to financial crises. So, inclusive architecture, directly or indirectly, helps safeguard investments, reducing the obligation of amending and incurring additional costs in the building’s design.
Increased Productivity
Employees who feel valued at work are often happier, more productive, and less likely to seek other employment opportunities (‘Valuing Employees: 15 Ways To Make Them Feel Valued’). Incorporating inclusivity in architecture is not just a means of providing direct support to those in need, but it is also a way of expressing their value. Designing with inclusivity serves as a gesture to demonstrate the significance of employees to a company and fosters a sense of belonging in the workplace. Valued employees lead to increased productivity, enhanced market value for the company, and consequently, heightened business value. Moreover, when employees feel valued and respected, they are less likely to seek new employment. Therefore, in order to create a positive work environment that drives productivity and business growth, inclusive design emerges as a critical factor in the contemporary world.
Positive message to the world
To ensure the support of all members of the community, one must consider design details that foster comfort and a welcoming atmosphere in building spaces (‘All-Inclusive Design: How Architects Build for Humanity from Cradle to Grave | Ideas’). Inclusive architecture not only contributes to creating a positive work environment but also conveys a collective, affirmative public message, receiving media coverage.
For instance, inclusive and accessible architecture can promote social inclusion by establishing spaces that are welcoming and safe for marginalized groups (‘The Importance of Inclusive & Accessible Architecture’). An architect is seen as forward-thinking and practical when they design inclusively. This approach helps attract socially responsible citizens, activists, and highly esteemed members of society. Increased engagement with people fosters relationships and spreads a positive message worldwide about the necessity of inclusive architecture. People are inclined to align their businesses with architecture, thus expanding opportunities for both parties. This proves to be a significant advantage for fellow architects and the architecture companies they are affiliated with.
In conclusion, incorporating inclusivity into design is not merely an option but a necessity in today’s world. It is of great importance for architecture, not only from the architectural perspective but also from a business standpoint. Inclusive architecture allows businesses to reach a broader audience, as it is intended to cater to a more extensive range of individuals than a typical building. Similarly, it helps safeguard investments by reducing the need for costly retrofits in the long run, where a seemingly substantial initial investment translates into a higher long-term return. It enhances workers’ productivity and spreads positive messages throughout the world. Therefore, as architects, we must strive to create spaces in a manner that every corner has the capacity to welcome and accommodate everyone.
References:
“All-Inclusive Design: How Architects Build for Humanity from Cradle to Grave | Ideas.” HMC Architects, 21 December 2018, https://hmcarchitects.com/news/all-inclusive-design-how-architects-build-for-humanity-from-cradle-to-grave-2018-12-21/. Accessed 17 September 2023.
Hirons, Paul. “What is inclusive design?” Royal Institute of British Architects, 20 October 2022, https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/knowledge-landing-page/what-is-inclusive-design. Accessed 17 September 2023.
“The Importance of Inclusive & Accessible Architecture.” Prasoon Design Studio, 19 January 2023, https://www.prasoon.design/the-importance-of-inclusive-accessible-architecture. Accessed 17 September 2023.
“Valuing Employees: 15 Ways To Make Them Feel Valued.” Indeed, 10 March 2023, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/valued-employees. Accessed 17 September 2023.
