Even if John Salmen were not already a renowned practitioner of Universal Design, his statement in "Design of entrance ramp shouldn't cut off home's residents" that ramps are "an indication of a mistake on the part of a designer," would have caught my attention. His statement cuts to the heart of good design.
Inclusion through design increases the quality of life of those who encounter a universally designed building. Universal Design is a human-centered approach that takes into account variability in human abilities - between individuals and within one individual over time - and so it moves accommodation for all from the realm of "sterile afterthought" to "stylish inclusion."
Adoption of Universal Design has implications for everyone from aging Baby Boomers who want to stay in their homes, to designers of exclusive vacation getaways, to survivors of last winter's Indian Ocean tsunami who want their homes, businesses and resorts rebuilt to allow participation by young and old; temporarily able-bodied and disabled alike.
Those of us who already benefit from Universal Design's concrete invitation to full social participation appreciate well-written and informative articles such as this one by Washington Post writer Jeff Turrentine in which John is quoted. As we assist the hospitality and tourism industry keep up with new expectations of comfort resulting from adoption of Universal Design in homes our efforts benefit from good public education in the media.
Further Reading:
Foir more nformation on John P. Salmen see his site Universal Designers & Consultants, Inc.
http://www.universaldesign.com/