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Adaptable Design
Adaptable design generally refers to housing or housing features that are intended for use by people with disabilities or those who are limited in mobility. Adapting a space beyond what current housing design permits enables people to create liveable residences where they can live and thrive independently.
Adaptable Design Guidelines
In addition to the Barrier Free requirements of the current BC Building Code, there are three levels to the City's Adaptable Design Guidelines:
Level One consists of basic design and features, and is required in all multiple unit buildings with common corridors (MUB). Level Two and Level Three elements provide for a greater range of adaptability. Level Two adaptable design provides options for people who require a mobility aid and the means to move easily to and from the building, common areas and the adaptable design unit, as well as to facilitate use of their bathroom. The degree of adaptability increases in Level Three units, providing full access in all unit spaces.
The Adaptable Design Policy was updated in October 2003 to include:
- 20% units must be Level Two
- For each Level Two unit, 20 square feet will be excluded from floor area calculations
- For each Level Three unit, 45 square feet will be excluded from floor area calculations
The Adaptable Design Guidelines are presented in two charts: the Design Elements Checklist and Fixtures & Finishes Checklist. The former contains items related to initial design and construction phases, while the latter consists of items which are added during the finishing of a residential building or dwelling unit. Drawings are available which illustrate the priority features of adaptable design.
Adaptable Design Resources & Related Links:
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