Insights from Reeshika Vallabh: The Role of Access Consultants and Universal Design

Reeshika Vallabh, Director and co-founder of Vallabh Bailey Consulting, has dedicated her career to advancing accessibility and universal design. With years of experience as an access consultant, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the field. In this interview, Reeshika shares her insights on the key aspects of access consulting, the benefits of incorporating accessibility features, and the essential role of access consultants in creating inclusive spaces.

What is key in access consulting?

Reeshika:

I always think that disability access should just be part of a design. You should not need to think about it, it just gets incorporated within the design. No one should really be saying, “what about access?” at the end of the job or design stage.

And of course, good design is versatile and flattering. Places everyone can own. I think that an accessible place is like a frame around a picture, you can use it in so many different ways by so many different people. Consider how you can incorporate artistic elements or interactive features into accessible designs. Think about ways to make ramps, elevators, and other accessibility features not just functional, but also aesthetically pleasing and engaging. By infusing creativity into accessibility solutions, you can make spaces more enjoyable and inclusive for everyone.

What is the role and responsibilities of an Access Consultant?

Reeshika:

As an Access Consultant, my role encompasses assessing, advising, and providing recommendations on how to make facilities, buildings, and public spaces accessible to ALL users. This includes conducting comprehensive accessibility audits, reviewing designs to ensure compliance with access standards, and offering guidance on creating inclusive environments that cater to the diverse needs of all individuals.

What expertise and knowledge do access consultants bring to the design and planning process?

Reeshika:

Access consultants bring a wealth of expertise in disability rights, regulations, and universal design principles to the design and planning process. With a deep understanding of the specific needs and challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, they can offer practical solutions to create accessible and inclusive spaces that cater to a diverse range of users.

How do access consultants collaborate with architects, designers, and stakeholders on a project?

Reeshika:

Access consultants collaborate closely with architects, designers, and stakeholders by providing valuable input during the design process, conducting thorough reviews of plans to ensure compliance, and offering expert guidance on accessible design solutions. Through effective collaboration, they work together to ensure that the final design meets all accessibility requirements and provides an inclusive experience for all users.

What are the key benefits of incorporating accessibility features into a building or space?

Reeshika:

Incorporating accessibility features into a building or space offers a multitude of benefits, including creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, enhancing usability for individuals with disabilities, improving safety for all users, and potentially increasing the property’s market value and overall appeal.

How does designing for accessibility benefit everyone, beyond individuals with disabilities?

Reeshika:

Designing for accessibility benefits everyone by promoting inclusivity, improving usability and comfort for all users, and enhancing the overall user experience. Features such as clear signage, accessible entrances, and thoughtfully designed spaces benefit not only individuals with disabilities but also older adults, parents with young children, and those with temporary mobility limitations.

What are some common misconceptions about accessibility and how do access consultants address them?

Reeshika:

Misconceptions about accessibility-that Is a good one!

One misconception is,  concerns about cost or complexity, can often impede progress towards truly inclusive design. Access consultants address these misconceptions by emphasising the importance of inclusivity, showcasing the numerous benefits of accessible design, and providing practical and cost-effective solutions to create welcoming and barrier-free environments for all.

In your experience, what are some key considerations when creating accessible buildings or spaces?

Reeshika:

In my experience, key considerations when creating accessible buildings or spaces are;

• prioritising safety for all users
• ensuring barrier-free access,
• integrate universal design principles,
• provide clear wayfinding and signage
• accommodate various sensory needs

By incorporating these considerations from the outset, we can create spaces that are truly inclusive and welcoming to everyone.

How do you ensure access consultants stay current on changing regulations and best practices in accessibility design?

Reeshika:

Read, read, and read more!

Ensuring access consultants stay current on evolving regulations and best practices in accessibility design is crucial. I think it is important to discuss projects big or small with others in the industry. To achieve this, we actively engage in professional development opportunities, attend industry conferences and seminars, network with peers in the field, and continuously monitor updates to disability access standards. By staying informed and adaptive, we can ensure our recommendations align with the latest requirements and advancements in inclusive design. One important note- always try to liaise with the end-user. The project manager is not the one that will ultimately be occupying the space!

Can you share a success story or example of a project where access consultants made a significant impact on the final design?

Reeshika:

One particularly rewarding project involved transforming a historic building into an accessible cultural centre, seamlessly blending heritage preservation with modern inclusivity. By collaborating closely with architects and designers, our team played a key role in creating barrier-free entrances, enhancing amenities for accessibility, and curating inclusive exhibition spaces. The project culminated in a space that welcomed visitors of all abilities, embodying the spirit of universal design and social inclusion.

What advice do you have for designers and architects seeking to enhance their expertise in accessibility design?

Reeshika:

I recommend actively engaging in training sessions focused on accessibility standards, seeking mentorship from experienced access consultants, staying informed on best practices in inclusive design, and prioritising the involvement of individuals with disabilities in the design process to gain invaluable insights and perspectives. By fostering a proactive commitment to accessibility considerations from the outset of a project, professionals can elevate their expertise and create truly inclusive environments that cater to all users.

Provide one fun tip to create awareness in accessibility!

Reeshika:

One fun tip! There are many, but how about this… Incorporate a “Wheelchair Challenge” Day! Organise an event where your colleagues spend a day navigating common spaces and task using a wheelchair. Visit the unisex accessible toilet in your building or try and make yourself a coffee in the kitchen. This hands-on experience fosters empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by people with mobility impairments. It can be an eye-opening exercise for architects, designers, and decision-makers involved in creating accessible environments. Plus, it’s a memorable way to raise awareness and promote inclusive design practices!

By staying informed on evolving regulations and best practices, Vallabh Bailey Consulting ensures that their projects not only meet compliance standards but also foster inclusivity and enhance user experiences for all. For those seeking to elevate their accessibility design, Vallabh Bailey Consulting offers the knowledge, experience, and innovative solutions needed to create spaces that truly cater to the diverse needs of all individuals.