accessible architecture construction and design manual by philipp meuser

inside photograph

author: philipp meuser publisher: DOM publishers year: 2012 size: 303 pages, 21.5 x 25 cm

ISBN: 978-3-86922-170-0

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designboom rating:

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content

this manual is a refreshing look into accessibility issues in architecture. with a brief introduction as to what being disabled really means, the different types of disabilities and their impacts on the individual with respect to their interactions with the built environment, this book provides a better understanding of their special needs and how to cater to them in various ways. there are many examples following the introduction, conveniently organized by building typology with different shades of blue and with tabbed pages for quick access to the section you need.

each project has a brief history and description, taking extra care to explain accessibility issues and is reinforced with ample pictures, drawings, details, and diagrams aimed to give the reader a better understanding of the final product. in the back, a yellow tabbed section is filled with technical information, with useful ranges of measurements and a selection construction drawings along with the different problems associated with elements such as windows, doors, bathrooms and elevators.

is it for me? with all the technical information and case studies, this book is a must have for students and professionals in order to quickly look up a certain issue or generate ideas for new designs in this topic. overall, this is a good reference to keep close while designing to better understand how individuals are affected by all design decisions.

diagrams showing different issues in disability (in this case blindness) image © designboom

title page for the fortress in koblenz image © designboom

spread for the residence for the elderly in corinthia image © designboom

full page spread photograph for the village square in upper austria image © designboom

models and component explanations

chapter title page image © designboom

sections with highlighted accessible areas

spacial diagrams

detailed construction drawings

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designboom ratings: interesting good read, worth a look very good excellent, recommended must have _________________________________________________________________________________________

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