are brownstones and pre-war buildings,
but to make them flexible and fair,
one mainly feels dread and despair,
for it requires gutting out and rebuilding.
Yes, that (limerick) happened. I tried and it's not good, at all, but it happened. Mainly, I feel that to adhere to the UD principles as outlined below...
Seven Universal Design Principles:
1. Equitable Use
2. Flexibility In Use
3. Simple And Intuitive
4. Perceptible Information
5. Tolerance For Error
6. Low Physical Effort
7. Size And Space For Approach And Use
it'll take the building's management company and owner to expensively and extensively renovate the building, on top of figuring out how to do this without violating the renters' contracts. More than that, for a lot of these buildings, the inside will need to be torn down and entirely rebuilt to make the space equitable for all, which is something owners/companies are most likely not willing to do.
There are options like stair lifts and ramps, which are popular and sensible. Also, the stair lift/ramp option adhere to No. 1, 2, 3, and definitely 6 of the UD principles. However, it a stair lift breaks down mid-ride (No. 5), not only is it dangerous for the person seated, but also for others as it and the person himself now becomes a fire hazard. Also, a stair lift/ramp in this building is not the best option for its narrow stairways (No. 7), as persons going in the opposite direction of the rider will have to wait until the rider fully ascends/descends the stairs. But until we find better options/can afford ideal solutions, it is the most Universally Designed solution for those who are unable to take the stairs. Meanwhile, those of us who are lazy and out of shape may just benefit from cardio.
As for the dank smell of LES creatures, well, keeping the windows open is a start, but perhaps a small investment in a window fan will help circulate some air around the building.
No comments:
Post a Comment