Disability and public spaces: Universal design approaches

Abstract

This chapter is located at the intersection of disability, society and design in the Indian context. Beginning by examining the systems model of disability, it explores how this model, like other models such as the medical model and the social model of disability, is underwritten by different kinds of cultural and historical determinants and is a powerful ideology that constructs categories of identity. Further, the paper explains how information available and conformity with the model and a universal design approach may have a critical bearing on design decisions, processes, the action that is taken and even social policies that are framed. Designers could substantially gain from these insights, but often falter because the concerns of disability studies are every so often rendered invisible in ableist design thinking. The chapter illustrates how the canvas of design is often limited in its interface with disability. It also underscores the need to incorporate the unique concerns and experiences of disabled people in design thinking and practice, and having a universal design approach to enrich the fields of design practice, design education and the field of Disability Studies in India.