Designing Homes for All: An inclusive design guide to support people living with cognitive and sensory impairment

This comprehensive design guide, published by Northern Ireland’s Department of Communities and Department of Health, aims to provide a reference for anyone involved in home design and construction to help improve accessibility and usability for people of all ages and abilities.

Set out in 4 clear sections, and referencing several other resources hosted on the Housing LIN website, the guide also applies to diverse dwelling types, old and new, offering practical design solutions for creating homes that are easily understood and navigated by people with a range of needs. It also recognises that well-designed and healthy homes are a major contributor to:

• Greater life chances, independent living and care

• Improved health, well-being and comfort

• Better educational attainment and workplace productivity

• Lower costs to our health service and ultimately a healthier population

The guidance seeks to go beyond statutory requirements to build truly inclusive environments and communities.  Importantly, it aligns with their responsibilities as outlined in Articles 9 and 19 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006) in relation to accessibility and living independently.

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If you found this of interest, check out other resources curated by the Housing LIN on the Accessibility and adaptability topic webpage.