Author:

Keywords:

disabled architects, inclusive design, physical impairment, pool design

Abstract:

People with a temporary or permanent physical impairment are often excluded from bathing activities, due to the difficulties of getting into and out of the water. This paper explores pool design, specifically the design of the access to the tank, which is key for a pools inclusivity. In trying to break down existing barriers between users, accessibility experts and designers, we interviewed physically impaired architects about their perception of four types of pool access often used by wheelchair users; ramps, transfer walls, transfer systems and lifts. The interviews revealed limitations in all four types of pool access. Therefore, combining different types of access in one single pool may be of interest in finding a balance between the limitations identified. Moreover, the interviews allowed to identify another type of pool access, designed by one of the interviewees: an upper pool border connected to an underwater bed and seat, which allows for an easier exit than transfer walls and transfer systems. Another interviewee advanced the idea of a cane holder for physically and visually impaired people, which may contribute to freeing poolside floors from obstacles and reducing the risk of falls. All these insights may contribute to make pool design more inclusive, by accommodating specific temporary or permanent needs related to the mobility of all of us.