Inclusive Design for Historic Buildings

Historic listed buildings continue to be enjoyed in the UK as places of work, education, entertainment, worship and more. However, in order to retain and enhance their value to society, they must function inclusively and provide easier access for disabled visitors. Inclusive Design for Historic Buildings explores how this challenging ambition can be reconciled with the long-standing objectives of building conservation. Experienced Access Consultant, David Bonnett, clearly sets out the qualifying elements for inclusivity and explores the architectural methods available, identifying five key typologies. Over twenty-five case studies are examined in depth, each illustrating a successful solution. Topics covered include the history of inclusive legislation; access auditing; working on-site and on-plan; consultation with disabled clients; creative problem-solving skills and, finally, social dynamics of the future.

This is an important contribution to the literature on inclusive design and a truly useful guide for historic building practice.

Dr David Bonnett FRIBA has advised on inclusive design for over thirty years. His personal knowledge of disability and architectural experience in historic buildings led to founding David Bonnett Associates, now a leading UK Access Consultancy. He is also a Visiting Professor at Oxford Brookes University and a Design Council built environment expert. Pauline Nee is a surveyor who specializes in building conservation. She has combined this with an interest in universal design. In 1989 Pauline carried out research in the US, which led the way in today’s accessible design. She joined David Bonnett’s practice in 2013, working with him on a range of historic buildings.