Study on Barrier-Free Design in Open Spaces in Public Use Areas

摘要

This study presents historical changes in and a basic framework for barrier-free design through literature review. It then explores ideal barrier-free design of open spaces found in public use areas in terms of landscape design. The results of this study indicate that it is important to conduct an accurate evaluation of problems posed by an area or space based on clear evaluation standards to ensure public use spaces are barrier-free. In evaluation, it is especially important that outdoor spaces not only pass the minimum standards provided by design guidelines, but also satisfy a level which is necessary for overall amenity. In addition to making individual spaces and facilities barrier-free, it is critical to include the viewpoint of designing settings which deals with relationships between spaces, or facilities and their locations. It is also important to develop a comprehensive viewpoint which takes into consideration the density and locations of spaces and facilities located in public use areas, and their transportation networks.