Image courtesy Rick Hansen Foundation
In early March, the Rick Hansen Foundation hosting their annual conference online. #APN2021: Accelerating Access brought together thought-leaders, researchers and industry leaders in accessibility and the built environment to share ideas and collaborate on solutions to accelerate the AED industry forward towards improved accessibility. 
Architect Stanis Smith, a board member of the Rick Hansen Foundation, offered  Canadian Architect some thoughts on the basics of accessibility, and how architects can benefit from integrating universal design in their practices. 
What is Universal Design"
The term ?Universal Design‘ was coined by architect Ronald Mace to describe the concept of designing products and the built environment to be aesthetic, useful and accessible for all users ? regardless of their age, ability, or status in life. The seven Universal Design principles that he and his team developed have been widely accepted by many architects and clients to promote a more accessible and inclusive built environment, and they form the foundation of the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification program described in more detail below. Image courtesy Rick Hansen Foundation
Why should architects care about Universal Design"
Because it is the next big thing! According to StatsCan, one fifth of all Canadian adults have some form of disability, making them the single largest minority group in society ? and this will incre...