Modern installation-free meeting room solutions, such as the MeetingWall shown in the picture, allow anyone who wants to to furnish a professional meeting room themselves. This is, of course, great and a huge advantage for users. However, to avoid unnecessary beginner mistakes in the process of ensuring accessibility, it is wise to learn a little from the professionals first. Even though it is very easy to change and rearrange with installation-free meeting room solutions if you are not satisfied the first time. Use this as a checklist!
When it comes to meeting rooms, it is important to consider universal design, which means the room should be easily accessible and usable for everyone, regardless of disabilities. Designing a meeting room with universal design can feel challenging, but with proper planning and equipment, it can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. In this article, we will look at how to furnish a meeting room with universal design, from choosing furniture to using technology.
Room Planning
The first step in furnishing a meeting room with universal design is to plan the room in a way that is easy to navigate for people with disabilities. The room should have enough space to move around and to place furniture in a way that allows all participants to see and hear each other. A floor plan can be helpful in visualizing the space and furniture placement.
Use of Colors and Contrasts
Using contrasting colors on the walls and floor can help people with visual impairments navigate the room. It is also important to have enough lighting so that all participants can see each other and the documents used during the meeting.
Furniture Placement
The furniture should be placed in a way that allows for enough space to move around and for all participants to see and hear each other. The tables should have enough space underneath for wheelchair users to get close to the table and participate in the discussion. Avoid cable routing over the floor if possible and definitely avoid loose cables lying on the floor.
Furniture Selection
Choosing the right furniture is important in creating a meeting room with universal design. The furniture should be comfortable and supportive for people with disabilities, while also being aesthetically pleasing for all participants. Take advantage of the opportunity to have the same fabric on your installation-free meeting room solution as on the chairs, for example.
Chairs
Chairs should be adjustable to accommodate people of different sizes and with different disabilities. They should also be ergonomic and supportive for the back.
Table Surface
The table surface should be smooth and easy to clean. There should also be plenty of space on the table to accommodate documents and equipment. Any control systems and outlets should be recessed into the table.
Sun Protection
Internal sun protection, of course, helps to make the temperature in the room more comfortable. But the most important thing is to avoid glare and reflections from incoming sunlight or car headlights.
Acoustics
Sound is just as important as light in a workspace. Poor acoustics can cause fatigue and make it harder to concentrate, especially for remote participants. Carpets, curtains, and effective sound absorbers work wonders to dampen unwanted sounds in the audible spectrum.
Use of Technology
Technology can be used to facilitate communication and participation for people with disabilities. Here are some technical tools that can be used to furnish a meeting room with universal design:
Hearing Loop
A hearing loop can be used to improve the sound quality for people with hearing impairments. This can also help reduce background noise and make it easier to hear speech. There are different types of hearing loops, including portable and fixed installations.
Projector or Display
A projector or a display is used to show presentations and other documents. This can be helpful for people with visual impairments, as they can zoom in on the image to see the text more clearly.
Video Conferencing
Video conferencing, or web meetings, can be used to enable remote participation for people who cannot attend the meeting in person. This can also be helpful for people with disabilities who cannot travel to the meeting location.
Accessibility outside the Room
It is important to ensure that the meeting room is accessible for people with disabilities. Here are some things to consider:
Ramp or Elevator
If the meeting room is not on ground level, make sure there is a ramp or elevator to make it accessible for wheelchair users.
Restroom
Ensure that the restroom is accessible for people with disabilities. There should be enough space to maneuver a wheelchair and accessible toilets.
Parking
Ensure that the parking lot is accessible for people with disabilities. There should be enough accessible parking spaces near the entrance to the meeting room.
Aesthetics and design
Despite functionality and accessibility being important factors in designing a meeting room with universal design, aesthetics do not need to be compromised. Here are some tips for creating a meeting room that is both functional and visually appealing:
Colors and materials
Use calm colors and simple materials to create a relaxed and professional atmosphere. Avoid strong colors or patterns that can distract participants.
Art and plants
Art and plants can be used to create an inviting and inspiring environment. Make sure the artwork is neutral and not perceived as offensive or discriminatory.
Summary
Furnishing a meeting room with universal design requires planning and consideration. It is important to think about accessibility, furniture selection, and technology usage to create a functional and aesthetic environment. By following the principles of universal design, one can create a meeting room that is easily accessible and useful for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What are the best technical tools to facilitate participation for people with disabilities?
- It depends on individual needs and preferences, but hearing loops, projectors, displays, and video conferencing are common tools that can be used to facilitate communication.
- What type of furniture is best for creating a meeting room with universal design?
- The furniture should be adjustable, supportive, and comfortable for people of different sizes and with different disabilities. It is also important that the tables have enough space underneath for wheelchair users to get close to the table and participate in discussions.
- How can I ensure that the meeting room is accessible to people with disabilities?
- Ensure that there is a ramp or elevator to make it easily accessible for wheelchair users and that the parking is accessible with enough handicap accessible parking spaces near the entrance to the meeting room.
- What is universal design?
- Universal design means creating an environment or product that is usable by everyone, regardless of disability.
- What are the benefits of designing a meeting room with universal design?
- The benefits of designing a meeting room with universal design are that it makes the room easily accessible and usable for all participants, regardless of disability. This can lead to increased participation and better communication during the meeting.
Conclusion
Creating a meeting room with universal design is an important part of creating an inclusive and accessible workspace. By planning the room in a way that is easy to navigate and use for all participants, selecting appropriate furniture and technology, and ensuring the room is accessible for people with disabilities, one can create an environment where everyone can participate and contribute to the meeting on equal terms. By considering both functionality and aesthetics, one can create an inspiring and productive environment that encourages creativity and collaboration.