5 Tips for Applying ADA-Compliant Design Principles to Your Client’s Space
By Mike Shabluk | February 22, 2022
Why Accessibility Should Be a Priority for Interior Design
When you work in the interior design field, aesthetics are naturally a major focus. After all, your job is to help create spaces that are attractive, cohesive, and functional. But when you’re designing or remodeling a facility that’s open to the public, appearance is only part of the equation. Accessibility should be a priority as well.
ADA-compliant design is the practice of creating spaces that can be accessed and used by people with a wide range of abilities. By incorporating accessibility into your design process, you can help clients create environments that are welcoming, functional, and compliant with applicable regulations.
Ever since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) went into effect in 1990, it has significantly influenced the way buildings throughout the United States are designed. Under Title III, public accommodations must provide equal access for individuals with disabilities. As a result, business owners have strong incentives to remain compliant and avoid potential legal and financial consequences.
For interior designers, a working knowledge of the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design is essential. Understanding these requirements helps ensure that accessibility considerations are incorporated from the beginning of a project rather than addressed after the fact.
5 Tips for Applying ADA-Compliant Design Principles
For any project that involves modifying a public space, the goal is to create an environment that is not only visually appealing but also functional, safe, and accessible. Applying ADA-compliant design principles can help support equitable use while reducing unnecessary physical effort for building occupants.
Below are five practical ways to incorporate accessibility into your designs.
1) Be Mindful of Clearance Under Desks and Tables
Adequate clearance is a fundamental part of ADA-compliant design. When selecting new desks and tables for a client’s facility, make sure there is enough room underneath to comfortably accommodate wheelchair users without placing the work surface too high.
Without proper clearance, individuals who rely on mobility devices may have limited access to workstations, meeting spaces, reception counters, and other important areas.
According to ADA guidance, accessible tables should meet the following requirements:
- Height between 28 and 34 inches
- At least 27 inches of clearance between the floor and the bottom of the table
- Knee clearance extending at least 19 inches underneath the table
Fortunately, there are many commercial furniture options available that meet these standards. Adjustable-height desks can also provide added flexibility, making them worth considering based on the client’s specific needs.
2) Aim for Hardware and Fixtures That Are Easy to Use
Hardware and fixtures are easy to overlook during a renovation project, yet they can have a significant impact on accessibility.
When sourcing products for a public space, prioritize options that can be operated with minimal effort and without requiring awkward hand or wrist movements.
Examples include:
- Light switches: While traditional flip switches are generally acceptable, push-plate switches are often easier for a wider range of users.
- Doorknobs: Avoid hardware that requires significant wrist twisting. Lever handles and U-shaped pulls are typically more accessible.
- Faucets: Faucets should be operable with no more than five pounds of force. Touchless, lever-operated, and cross-handle options are commonly used.
- Cabinet and drawer hardware: U-shaped pulls, levers, and push-type mechanisms can all improve usability.
Small hardware decisions can make a meaningful difference in the overall accessibility of a space.
3) Make Signage Part of the Overall Flow
Signage is an essential component of ADA-compliant design. Effective signs help visitors navigate a facility and access information more easily, including individuals with visual impairments.
As part of any renovation or design project, review existing signage and determine whether updates are needed.
Certain signs, including those identifying permanent rooms and common areas, must comply with ADA sign specifications. However, compliance does not mean sacrificing aesthetics. Designers have considerable flexibility when it comes to colors, materials, typography, and overall presentation.
In fact, ADA-compliant signage should support the flow of the space while complementing the surrounding environment. When chosen carefully, signs can enhance both accessibility and design consistency.
4) Choose Smooth, Non-Trip Floor Surfaces
Flooring plays a major role in how accessible a facility feels and functions.
A truly accessible environment allows individuals who use wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility aids to move comfortably throughout the space. In most public environments, smooth and stable flooring materials such as wood, laminate, and vinyl provide the best experience.
Additional considerations include:
- If carpet is necessary, choose a low-pile option that is easier to navigate.
- Avoid overly soft flooring materials that may be difficult for mobility devices to move across.
- Refrain from using plush or fringed area rugs in high-traffic areas where they may create trip hazards.
Selecting the right flooring can improve safety, navigation, and long-term usability.
5) Opt for Soft, Low-Glare Lighting
Lighting is another important element of accessible design.
Soft, low-glare lighting can make spaces more comfortable for individuals with low vision and can reduce eye strain for many occupants. Minimizing glare also helps improve visibility throughout the facility.
Although the ADA does not establish detailed lighting requirements beyond fixture placement, designers can still make thoughtful choices that support accessibility.
Common strategies include:
- Installing low-glare lighting systems
- Using adjustable lighting controls
- Adding ground-track LED lighting in hallways and circulation paths
- Designing spaces that provide consistent illumination without harsh contrasts
These considerations can make a facility easier to navigate while enhancing overall comfort.
Takeaway
Accessibility should be an integral part of any design project involving public spaces. By incorporating ADA-compliant design principles into furniture selection, hardware choices, signage planning, flooring specifications, and lighting design, you can help create environments that are both attractive and functional for a broader range of users.
As accessibility expectations continue to evolve, designers who prioritize inclusive design will be better positioned to deliver long-term value for their clients.
If your client needs updated signage as part of an accessibility initiative, explore our ADA-compliant interior sign packages. Designed to meet ADA requirements while supporting a cohesive visual environment, these solutions can be customized to fit a wide range of commercial, healthcare, educational, and government facilities.
FAQ
What is ADA-compliant design?
ADA-compliant design refers to designing spaces, products, and features that meet accessibility requirements established under the Americans with Disabilities Act and related accessibility standards.
What signs must be ADA compliant?
Signs that identify permanent rooms and spaces, such as restrooms, conference rooms, and stairwells, often must meet ADA signage requirements for tactile characters, braille, contrast, and placement.
What flooring is best for accessible public spaces?
Smooth, stable flooring materials such as vinyl, laminate, and wood are typically preferred because they are easier to navigate with wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
Does the ADA require specific lighting levels?
The ADA does not provide extensive lighting-level requirements. However, low-glare, evenly distributed lighting is generally recommended to improve accessibility and visibility.