Inclusive Design Overlay
The Inclusive Design Overlay (July, 2023) is a collaborative piece of work, with contributions from over 100 professionalsacross 25 built environment professions, offering insight and best practice into inclusive design. It was developed with reference to the Inclusion Charter, which commits the RIBA ‘to embedding inclusive design in all projects, contributing to the development of inclusive environments’.
The overlay introduces inclusive design within five key team roles; Client, Project Management Team, Design Team, Construction Team and Asset Management Team. These are key roles as they have the greatest influence over the inclusive design strategy, application and deliverability and therefore success in the overall outcomes.
The overlay highlights when and why to engage with an Inclusive Design Lead (Consultant or Champion) on projects and outlines the purpose of their role and remit. Underpinning the overlay are inclusive design enablers that support the effective implementation of inclusive design across the project such as an inclusive design strategy.
Organisations and projects that demonstrate the application of the RIBA Inclusive Design Overlay may be eligible for the Construction Industry Council’s (CIC) ‘Inclusive Environments Recognition Certification’. Please visit the CIC website for further information.
For further information and to download the Inclusive Design Overlay to the RIBA plan of work visit here.
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