A Multi-Service

Recreational Center
For the Handicapped
 A Multí-Servíce Recreational Center
For The Handícapped
In Dallas-Fort Worth

by

Wade H. Laing

A THESIS
IN
ARCHITECTURE

Submitted to the Architecture Faculty

of the College of Architecture
of Texas Tech University in
partial fulfillment for
the Degree of

B A C H M ) R OBf ARCHITECTURE

^Chairman of the Committee

Programming Instructor (ARCH 4395): Prof. D. Driskil

Design Critic (ARCH 4361): Prof. J. E. White

Accepted

lege
Dearn, Colíege of Architecture
January, 1989
\\

Dedicated to my little sister, Babe, who's circumstances have made

me aware of a group of people I once ignored.
TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Architects attempt to design buildings with a particular group in

mind. Unfortunately, the architect inherently views himself as the
model when making design decisions . In doing so, the designer
assumes various needs, desires, likes, and capabilities similar to
his own, allowing for few differences between himself and the
actual user.

When a planner has new experiences he becomes more sensitive to

issues related to that experience; issues that he may not have even
considered before. A very different set of design decision will
likely result from this new sensitivity. For example, the architect
may not be blind, but a friend or family member could lose their
sight. Now acutely sensitive to the needs of a group that he may
not have considered before, the designer will probably make some
different design decisions so that his building will be as functional
and convenient for that user as well as those more similar to the
designer himself.

Thankfully, scenarios like that above do not have to occur to make

buildings usable by everyone. It simply requires a more conscious
effort on the part of planners to design for all situations and users
possible, so that the environments he creates can be enjoyed by all.
This is not "special" design, it is humane design.

Therefore, archltects should strive to design humane

buildings where all conceivable users are accommodated,
and environments are more easily negotiated by all.
 isi(g[}sg][r@y[rî)d]

". . . it shall be national policy to recognize the inherent right of all

citizens, regardless of their physical disability, to the full
development of their economic, social, and personal potential,
through the free use of the manmade environment." AIA, Conference
on a Barrier-Free Environment, January 1974.

This is a bold statement, and one that is not easily achieved. No

particular arrangement will be perfect for every person with every
disability. However, it is our duty as creators of the built
environment to strive for a world in which all humanity can
participate.

Special Populations

Members of special populations are known as individuals who are

not typically included in the mainstream of society. Kennedy,
Austin, and Smith (1987) say special populations "broadly
describes those who have special needs because of some social,
physical, mental, or psychological difficulty. In contemporary usage
it has come primarily to describe persons with physical and mental
disabilities and those who are elderly."

We must drastically change our thinking and policy-making in regard

to the design of facilities and outdoor spaces. We must begin to
think of these endeavors as part of human services. Unfortunately,
the rise of professionalism and specialists has led to buildings
often being expressions of developers and architects, rather than
expressions of the needs of people.

Therefore, consumers ( in this case special populations)

must have input early in the planning stages.

Special populations have long been denied equal access to all types
of buildings. Legislation now requires any structure built wholly or
in part by government funds to be accessible for the disabled (Texas,
Senate Bill 111, enacted January 1970). Great strides have been
made. However, one area that is currently receiving more attention
with respect to the person with disabilities is that of leísure and
recreation.

Recreation

With the American people becoming increasingly interested in

fitness, the awareness of preventive medicine and health
maintenance has reached new heights. This attitude can lead to a
more active, prolonged life.

However, this improvement in physical condition is not limited to

physical rewards, as there can be tremendous psychological
ramifications as well. An increase in self-confidence and self-
esteem often accompany an increase in physical fitness.

These new attitudes have also led to new social tendencies, with
the recreation facility evolving into a major focus of social life.
The facilities have become a forum for the exchange of cultural and
social ideas, serving a function similar to that of the Roman Baths
of the past. But facilities of this nature have rarely been provided
for the handicapped, resulting in discrimination of the disabled and
their needs as people.

Ironically, the recreation movement is said to have begun by most

authorities with the establishment of the Boston Sand Gardens, a
play-area for disadvantaged children, in 1885. Then to ease the
transition to the overcrowded urban environment, settlement
houses began to provide playgrounds for children as well as
recreational opportunities for adults(Kennedy, Austin, &
Powell,1987). Thus, recreation itself evolved from a humanistic
concern for the welfare of a special population. But this soon
changed.

As D. E. Gray (1969) explains it:

The recreation movement was born with a social

conscience. It grew up with the settlement house
movement, the kindergarten movement and the youth
 movement that fostered the great youth agencies of the
nation. Its earliest practitioners had a human welfare
motivation in which the social ends of human development,
curbing juvenile delinquency, informal education, cultural
enrichment, health improvement and other objectives
were central. Gradually the socíal welfare mission
weakened and a philosophy which sees recreation as an end
in itself was adopted; this is the common view in public
recreation agencies throughout the country.

We have come full circle. The recreation profession has once again
become concerned with providing services for special populations,
its initial focus.

Therefore, it is appropriate that a recreation center serve

as the canvas to exemplify humane design for all users.

Fitness/ Therapy

Two schools of thought exist in respect to recreation for those with

disabilities (Hutchison & Lord, 1979; Schleien, 1988). A broadened
concept of therapeutic recreation views recreation as encompassing
aJl recreation for persons with disabilities. This attitude has
further contributed to a perception that public parks and recreation
does not have a responsibility for special recreation since this
service is provided by those identified as therapeutic recreation
specíalists.

The other attitude is that recreation can be enjoyed as an end in

itself, and therefore it is the responsibility of public recreation to
provide the accommodations above and beyond those generally
provided to make facilities accessible to all. This is the focus taken
for this document.

Integration/lsolation
Assuming this attitude then, should a recreational facility be
provided solely for the person with disabilities or should services
be integrated with non-special populations? This becomes clear
when one considers the rejection felt by individuals with a
disability and their families. For many, there are few opportunities
for self-growth and fulfillment; meaningful ways of participating
and contributing to the community are limited; and occasions for
developing close relationships with non-disabled persons are
infrequent. This, sadly, is a result of society's low tolerance for
individual with differences.

These attitudes tend to involve negative role perceptions of

devalued people. For example, when a person with a disability is
viewed as someone to be feared, then relationships and services are
likely to be dehumanizing. Another example occurs when another
human being is an object of pity; overprotection and low
expectations often result. Alternatively, a person with a disability
should be recognized as a developing human being (Hutchison & Lord,
1979).

To a large extent, recreationists have accepted the labelling

process and have provided recreation and leisure experiences on a
segregated basis. As a consequence, individuals with a disability
participate in recreation programs with others who have
disabilities, first because of a common disability, and only secondly
because of shared interests of needs. A person who may have
started out with a relatively minor physical or mental disability
now has a major social handicap, which in turn prevents the
development of self-confidence and involvement in the community.
If for whatever reasons a segregated service is deemed appropriate,
it should be viewed as a stepping stone for integration (Hutchinson &
Lord, 1979).

Therefore, integration should be a community development

process which reflects a struggle to change the qualíty of
people's lives.

There are three essential components in community-based

recreation - Upgrade, Educate, and Participate (Hutchison & Lord,
1979).

Upgrade - This involves the upgrading of skills and self-confidence

of persons with disabilities and the upgrading of community
services and programs which make participation easier. Personal
upgrading can help minimize the differences between disabled and
non-disabled persons. Upgrading of community settings benefits all
citizens and ensures that integration will have lasting impact.

Educate- This concerns the education of all persons involved in the

integration process. This includes advocates in associations,
recreational staff and volunteers, politicians, the general public,
and non-disabled participants. Education about recreation and
integration for participants previously not involved is also part of
this phase.

Participate- This involves actual participation of individuals in

community services and recreation experiences. Support and
advocacy are provided in integrated settings where needs and
experiences are carefully selected to build upon participants
strengths.

There is a need for major reform of human services in North

America. As devalued people increasingly live in the community, the
need for change becomes all the more urgent. Developing workable
plans requires new assumptions about an alternative, comprehensive
human service system.

Mainstreaming and Normalization

Instead of concentrating on the differences between the disabled

and the non-disabled, we need to emphasize the similarities
between the groups. Many experts now question the efficacy of
educating children in total separation from the mainstream of
society (Kennedy, Austin, & Smith, 1987).

These new attitudes are indicative of growing acceptance of

normalization principles and approaches. Normalization stresses
that impaired persons should participate in a normai life rhythm:
they get up for breakfast, go to work, return home in the evening,
participate in recreational, community, and social activities
according to their interests, needs, and abilities - they care for
themselves to the degree they are able (Kennedy, Austin, & Smith,
1987).
The term mainstreaming is often used synonymously with the term
normalization, but in fact, the concept of mainstreaming as related
to normalization is often misunderstood or inappropriately defined.
For clarity, then, mainstreaming refers to the concept of providing
appropriate educational services to the handicapped , regardless of
their level of involvement, in settings as near to traditional
education practice as possible (Geddes,1977). This definition does
not, however, mean the end of all self-contained special programs
as service vehicles .

8
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The chairbound are not the majority of the disabled population, but
since they have the most stringent requirements in demands of
space, the spatial dimensions will also, in most cases benefit users
with other ambulatory and manipulatory disabilities. Generally, a
man's height is decreased by one third when placed in a wheelchair,
and his width twice that than when standing (White, 1973).

Wheelchair Transfer Space

When determining space for wheelchairs it is important to know
how the chairbound actually transfer in and out of a chair.
Wheelchair transfer is accomplished in one of three basic ways:
from the front, rear, or side of the wheelchair. A front transfer
usually requires a twist turn with the aid of supports, such as grab
bars. Though uncommon, a removable zipper back on a wheelchair
makes a rear transfer possible. When a wheelchair has removable
arms, a side transfer is possible. Since the side transfer is the
only transfer some people can accomplish, this spatial requirement
should always be planned for (Harkness, 1976).

10
Area of Reach
The upper area of reach of a person in a wheelchair is within the low
to middle range of a person standing. The average unilateral vertical
reach ranges from 54"-78". The average maximum fonA^ard
horizontal reach is from 23"-33" and the average diagonal reach is
48" above the finished floor (White, 1973).

2-8"
1 .81 m

1
1.57m
5-2
1.02m
3 -4
Area o( reach: \^
chairbound disabled ^ \
W = 1'0" E

Symbol of Access
The international wheelchair symbol of access should be displayed
on any building which is completely accessible to the chairbound and
other persons with mobility handicaps (White, 1973).

Parking
The importance of providing a level parking surface adjacent to
public buildings so that people can transfer easily and safely

11
between their cars and their wheelchairs is paramount (Harkness,
1976). To allow the disabled person to fully open the car door and
place the wheelchair next to the car for transfer, the parking stalls
should be extra wide (minimum 12'). Locate these parking spaces
as near the facility entrances as possible (Sorensen, 1979).
Passages within the parking area, or that lead to and from the
parking area, should be planned for good visibility, remembering the
low height of people in wheelchairs makes them hard to see,
especially for a driver using a rearview mirror (Harkness, 1976).

Parklng spaces lor the

disabled
y." = 1'0"

Public Walks
To ensure easy wheelchair passage, public walks should have a
durable, firm surface. Since the wheels of a wheelchair are usually
only about 1" wide, there should be no gratings or other openings

12
along the surface of the walk, unless they are perpendicular to the
direction of travel (Sorensen, 1979) Covered walks are a good idea
because they enable the chairbound to approach and enter a building
without assistance in various types of weather.

Public walks should be at least 5'0", which allows unencumbered

passage of two wheelchairs and the same time and one wheelchair to
make a tight 180 degree turn without having to reverse when making
the turn (White, 1973).

Public walks
V." = 1'0"

The approach to the main entrance should be level or ramped with

the gradient not to exceed 5% (1:20 ); if handrails are provided, a
gradient of 8.33% ( 1:12 ) is allowable. Ideally there would be a
continuous surface with no steps and with no abrupt changes in level
greater than1/2".

Unexpected hazards, not permanent fixtures, are the main obstacles

for the blind in buildings. Únnecessary projections and sudden
variations in level should be avoided. Accordingly, outdoor benches
and other street furniture should not obstruct passage on public
walks (Harkness, 1976).

13
Curb Cuts
Curb Cuts should be sloped at a gradient of 8.33% ( 1:12 ) to allow a
wheel chair to make a gradual grade change. If the slope is too steep,
the wheelchair could tip over backwards on the way up, or the
footrests may catch as it goes down.

To ensure pedestrians (especially the blind) do not trip over the edge
of a curb cut either slope the sides or isolate the curb cut with a
planting strip. The curb cut should meet the street as smoothly as
possible, with no more than a 1/2" lip (White, 1973).

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2-6" 3-4" 2-0"

.76m 1.02m .61m

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Curbcut: 1:12 (8.33%)

recommended slope
1:6 (16.66%) maximum
slope
V." = rO"

Steps and Stairs

Steps and Stairs should not have open risers or square, protruding
nosings. This also prevents "trapping" the toes of the ambulant
disabled. Maximum riser height is 7" and treads should not have
runs less than 11" (Collier, 1981; Sorensen, 1979).

14
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15
 Ramps
To minimize fatigue in ascending a ramp, the slope should be at most
8.33% ( 1:12 ). When descending a long or steep ramp, there is
always the danger of loss of control. Because the wheelchair is
slowed by the hands and not by a brake, an attempt to control
downward speed could cause friction burns on the hands. Therefore,
level rest platforms are necessary at 30'0" intervals. Level
platforms are also necessary wherever a ramp changes direction
more than 45 degrees, as it is very difficult to turn a wheelchair on
a slope.

Some chairbound people use handrails to pull themselves up a ramp,

so an additional lower set of handrails should be provided on each
side, extending beyond the slope at the top and bottom of a ramp by
18". Round shaped handrails are preferred to non-round which are
harder to grip (Sorensen, 1979).

Ramps need curbs on both sides so that a wheelchair cannot run off
the ramp accidentally. Curbs can also help brake a wheelchair in an
emergency.

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30 -0 4 - 0 /1.22mtor V12
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stope up to 1;8 when
permissible

There should be a least 5'0" of straight clearance at the bottom of a

ramp, and it should be covered with a nonskid surface. Also, protect
ramps from the elements and kept clear of ice and snow (White,
1973).

16
Entry
To avoid an underlying message that the disabled are second class
citizens, buildings should be accessible from the main entrance, not
secondary or service entrances. Buildings should not have revolving
doors or turnstiles as the only means of entry because they are not
accessible for the chairbound and are dangerous for the ambulant
disabled and the blind (Sorensen, 1979).

Entrance vestibule with

ramps
%" = 1'0"

All emergency exits should be accessible to and usable by the

chairbound. In a multistory building, provide at least one accessible
entrance to an elevator (Harkness, 1976).

Doors and Doorways

Doorways should have a minimum 34" clear opening to allow easy
passage for a wheelchair. On openings with double doors, each leaf

17
 should be wide enough so that only one door needs to be open to
allow passage of a wheelchair. Avoid excessive width which can
make doors too heavy (Sorensen, 1979).

A level space of at least 5'0" wide should extend a minimum of l'O"

on either side of a doorway to allow easier maneuvering of the
wheelchair when opening or closing the door (Harkness,1976).
If two doors are close together, as in a vestibule, there should be at
least 4' clearance between the door swing of the first and the
threshold of the second (Sorensen, 1979).

The manual push or pull on a door should not exceed 8 pounds since
more than that requires the setting of the brake on the wheelchair.
But 8 pounds push or pull might be insufficient to hold a door closed
against wind pressure when it opens to the outside of a facility.
Therefore, it is best to utilize automatic doors at entrances. Once
inside, side-hinged doors are permitted if they have an additional
pull-handle on the hinged side of the door. This allows the
chairbound to shut the door without being forced to position the
wheelchair in the path of the door's swing while reaching for the
door handle (Harkness, 1976).

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swinglng door
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18
Door handles should be horizontal lever-type and oval in shape to aid
people with manipulatory disabilities who might have difficulty in
gripping round doorknobs. The end should turn inwards to avoid
catching clothing. Doors that lead to dangerous areas should be
identified by operating hardware that is roughened to warn the blind
(Sorensen, 1979).

Side hinged doors should have a glass vision panel in the lower edge
at a maximum 39" from the floor. This is to give people in
wheelchairs good visibility and to allow them to be seen (White,
1973).

Placing a kickplate at the bottom of a door will protect the door

from the impact of a wheelchair's footrest. Doors that have no
protruding parts near the area of the footrests should be specified,
so that they do not catch on a foot rest when the chair bound use it
to push open the door (Harkness, 1976).

Thresholds are obvious hindrances. On exterior doors they should be

beveled, not exceeding 1/2" in height. Avoid thresholds altogether
on interior doors (White, 1973).

Lighting Levels
The majority of legally blind persons can still see some vague
shapes and shadows if plentiful light is available. Concern for high
illumination levels is extremely important for the vision impaired
(Collier, 1981).

Acoustics
Since the blind use their sense of hearing to guide them, sound-
reflecting walls are preferred to sound-absorbing walls. Sound
reflected up form walking surfaces are also used by the blind to
orient themselves. Carpeting is not desirable because it tends to
absorb or muffle sound (Harkness, 1976). Textural changes in floor
can provide clues to the blind as to the proximity of architectural
hazards (Sorensen, 1979).

Circulation
Corridors should be at least 5' wide to allow passage of 2
wheelchairs and to allow for 180 degree turns. If less than 5", there
should be turnaround/passing spaces at periodic intervals. For
level changes of 1" or more there should be a ramp with maximum
1:12 slope. Floors should be flat, non-skid (Sorensen, 1979).

19
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Elevators
Elevator should be available in all public buildings with more than
one level. Raised letters and numbers should be adjacent to call
buttons and indicators should be visual as well as audible. Handrails
should be located on three sides, 36" above the floor (Collier, 1981).

Automatic leveling devices should be provided to achieve a maximum

offset between cab and floor of less than 1/2". The gap between
sills should also be less than 1/2" (Sorensen, 1979).

A seven second period where doors are fully open is preferred, to

allow sufficient time for the chairbound to enter (Sorensen, 1979).
The elevator cab should be large enough to allow a wheelchair to
turn 180 degrees easily (Harkness, 1976).

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20
Signals and Signs
In an ideal situation, all the information throughout a building would
be audibly and visually communicated. When this is not practical,
provide raised (not recessed) letters and numbers for identification
(Sorensen, 1979).

All signs and single letters and numbers should be set at a

consistent height throughout a building - a minimum 5'0" and a
maximum 5'6" from the floor. Signs, letters, and numbers at doors
should be placed at a consistent distance from the doorjamb - a
minimum of 6' and a maximum of 18" from the jamb (Harkness,
1976).

For the deaf, warnings and directions should be equipped with highly
noticeable visual signals, such as flashing lights. Signs should
communicate clearly and obviously so that people do not have to ask
for directions (Harkness, 1976).

Buildlng Controls
All controls (lightswitches, thermostats, drapery pulls, call
buttons, etc.) should be placed in the area of reach common to both
the ambulant disabled and the chair bound, no higher than 4'-0" above
the floor. Controls should also be easy to operate for those with
manipulatory difficulties (Collier, 1981).

Public Telephones
Telephone dials, coin slots, and receivers should be located no more
than 48" above the floor. A telephone placed low enough for the

21
 im'-

chairbound is easily usable by the able bodied if a folding seat is

provided. Avoid phones deeply recessed into walls, and place in
alcoves at least 3' wide out of main circulation areas to avoid
phones becoming obstacles for the blind (White, 1973).

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To accommodate those with hearing difficulties, an amplifier and

volume control should be provided. Touch-tone units are preferred
as opposed to dial (White, 1973).

Drinking Fountains
Wall hung, projecting fountains with knee space are desirable for
the chairbound, but as with phones, place in an area out of
circulation paths to avoid creating hazards for the blind. The water
spout and hand controls should be located at the front, a maximum
3'-4" above the floor. Avoid controls that require twisting, pinching,
or grasping (Sorensen, 1979).

Restrooms
Restrooms can prove to be the most difficult areas in which the
chairbound must function. Spatial restrictions and cumbersome
fíxtures can make restrooms virtually unusable. Ideally, public
restrooms for each sex should be accessible on each floor of any
facility (White, 1973).

22
Partitions
Privacy walls should not restrict movement of the wheelchair;
maintain 3'-6" clearance at all offsets. The minimum 5'-0"
requirement for corridors should also be observed in restrooms
(Sorensen, 1979).

Stalls
Toilet stall doors should open outward. This allows the chairbound
to close the stall easily after entering. Also, this makes access to
the stall easier should a disabled person fall (Harkness, 1976).

An arrangement that allows a lateral transfer to the commode is

best. Provide both right and left hand options for each sex. Grab
bars should be provided on each side and if possible at the rear of
each stall. Clearance between bar and partition should be 1 1/2".
The toilet itself should be the deeply recessed, front wall hung type
with the top of the seat located 19" above the floor (Sorensen,
1979).

Lavatories
Washbasins should have ample room, for knee space and should be
27" high. Single line faucets with safety mixing valves are best. If
water temperatures exceed 120 degrees F, insulate the bowl drain
and hot water supply (Harkness, 1976).

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23
Accessories
The working mechanism of all accessories should be within reach of
both the ambulant and chairbound disabled, no more than 3'-4" above
the floor. All protruding hardware should be able to support a
minimum of 250 pounds for 5 minutes with no permanent deflection
because a disabled person may need to use the fixtures for support
(Harkness, 1976).

24
 Showers
The preferred shower stall is curbless and has an extendable self
draining seat 20" above the floor. The shower should be equipped
with a single lever mixing valve and a hand-held spray head located
no more than 1'-6" above the floor (White, 1973).

Counters
A counter height of 30 - 33" is preferred for the chairbound
disabled, although this may be awkwardly low for the ambulant
disabled and able bodied users. The standard 36" counter height is
acceptable if accompanied with a pull out shelf at 30" high. In any
case, sufficient knee space should be available (Harkness, 1976).

Tables
Tables should have pedestal supports or widely spaced legs to allow
the chairbound to pull up to the table edge. The table should also be
wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs on all sides at the same
time (about 3'-6") (Harkness, 1976).

3 ' 3

4 -6
Space at tables lor 1.37m
min
wheelchairs
UJZZL
y/'sVO" 0- V

Storage spaces
Avoid high, deep shelves and provide doors with hardware that is
easily manipulated and within reach. High level swinging doors can
create hazards for the blind (Sorensen, 1979).

25
Swimming Pools
Ramps and stairs, as well as mechanical lifts, should provide access
into the pool with handrails on both sides. Plenty of benches and a
larger than usual shallow area are desirable. Grab bars should be
placed periodically along the edge of the pools (Sorensen, 1979).

Drawings from Buildings without Barriers for the Disabled

26
 The Metropolltan Multl-Service Center of Houston
This Multi-Service Center is specifically oriented to persons with
both physical and mental disabilities. It's goal is to provide support
for these individuals in order to allow them to become a part of the
mainstream. As programmed under guidance of the Human Resources
Department, the Center is to provide recreation, both indoor and
outdoor, social interaction, training and social agency access.
Individual facilities that are included are as follows:

For recreation, there is a multipurpose room of an area and height

to accommodate wheelchair basketball. This room may be divided in
half by a moving wall. It includes an elevated stage with adjacent
dressing and toilet areas made accessible by a wheelchair ramp.
South of this facility, there is an exercise room and lockers and
showers for men and women. These changing facilities are
specifically designed for persons in wheelchairs. Outdoor
activities accommodated on the site include tennis, baseball,
walking, jogging and fitness exercise on a "mini" par course. All
activities including walking, the jogging trail and "mini" par course
are designed for handicap participation. These outdoor facilities are
programmed for recreation and skill improvement. Activities such
as "wheelchair olympics" will take place on other existing public
athletic areas. Additional outdoor recreational facilities will have
to be accommodated in the future as financing becomes available.

For training, there is a large classroom dividable into three

smaller areas; a resource center planned to contain information
specifically related to the disabled's needs; and a multipurpose room
which can be programmed for training sessions. A linear
demonstration kitchen is planned for the classroom. The kitchen can
be used for living skills training.

For socíal interaction, the multipurpose room (gym), with stage,

is used together with an adjacent serving kitchen. There is also a
lounge area adjacent to the lobby which can accommodate vending
and table seating. There are circulation spines wide enough to
provide for seating and displays and there is the main lobby with a
central information and control desk and space for lounge seating.

27
For social agency access, there are eighteen offices with
adjacent common secretarial spaces and staff conference and lounge
facilities. A skylit atrium waiting area is available for visiting
clients.

In addition, there is space allocated for a day care center. This

space can accommodate 50 children. It can be used for child day
care, adult respite day care, or some combination as programs
dictate. It is serviced by a kitchen which also has access to the
multipurpose room.

The Handicap Multi-Service Center is placed on a seven acre site

facing the south side of West Gray between Shepherd and Waugh
Drive. Ifs location is central to Houston and it offers easy access
by means of public and private transportation. Metropolitan Way, a
recently paved street, now bisects the site. This street is to be
closed to thru traffic and to become a major entrance to the
building. Visitor access and parking is from West Gray while staff
parking is reached via Haddon Avenue to the south. The visitor
access area includes van and bus parking and a walkway to a
proposed bus stop at West Gray. An ample number of handicap
parking stalls are included in both visitor and staff lots. The
recreation area is located within an existing fenced plot. In this
area there are hedgerows at the fence lines and large shade trees.
All parts of the site are designed for the disabled's access.

The plan for the building is organized around a central lobby and
control station. All portions of the building are accessible from the
lobby or adjacent circulation corridors and are visible from the
control station. The Center is zoned so that portions of the building
can be closed off when not required, in order to minimize staff
control problems and operating costs.

The buildlng entrance features sloped metal rooves over the lobby
and circulation spines. The exterior brick base and ribbed metal
exterior walls are finished in shades of warm gray. The gray
reflecting glass window are surrounded by bright red- orange
frames. This color scheme is carried to the interior where the
lobby, multipurpose room and circulation spines feature exposed,
brightly painted structure, interior space provides for daylighting
by a combination of windows and monitor skylights. Flooring is in a
variety of finishes ranging form carpeting to quarry tile, while wall
surfaces in high use zones are of concrete block.

28
The building can be expanded in several directions and a swimming
pool is programmed as future addition.

The Center also serves the general community of Houston, available

to any resident who wishes to hold an event of civic, social, and or
cultural importance.

Designed by Falik Klein Architects, Inc. and constructed by Comes

Corporation, the 34.000 square foot building was funded by a
community development block grant in the amount of 5.9 million
dollars. An additional 2 million dollars was contributed by the city
of Houston.

One of the first centers of this type, the Metropolitan Multi-Service

Center has been nominated for recognition in the National Program
for Urban Development Excellence.

Critíque

Unfortunately, the Center was not fully operational when toured as

furnishings for the facility had not yet arrived. Therefore,
problems discovered as the facility becomes more intensely used
were not observable. However, a tour with Assistant Director David
Anskiewicz revealed there are several potential problems.

First, there are no textural changes of flooring within areas to warn

the blind of hazards. The spatial layout is somewhat confusing for
all users (although not readily apparent from the plan), but
especially for the vision impaired. Also, since most legally blind
persons can still see some vague shapes and shadows, high
illumination levels are very important; however, the architects
daylightlng scheme does not supply enough illumination in the day
and lightlng fixtures are inadequate for nighttime use.

The HVAC system, designed to be silent, comes far from

accomplishing this goal. Unfortunately those with hearing aids find
it very difficult to hear over the air rushing through ductwork, as
hearing aids tend to pick up much background noise. Also, a better
study of acoustics in general could have created a more user-
friendly building for the vision and hearing impaired.

29
In changing rooms there is not enough space for maneuverability at
the locker areas. Toilet stalls are poorly designed here also, with
grab bars located to far out of reach of the commode seats. This led
one user wondering if perhaps the stalls were designed for
handicapped baboons.

Showers heads in the main shower facility are positioned so low on

the wall that the only area a chairbound user could easily wash
would be his thighs. Therefore, the shower heads are being ripped
out of the walls and replaced with adjustable hand held units
mounted higher up.

Building control switches are consistently to high and are not of a

type that can be easily negotiated by those with manipulatory
difficulties.

Finally, there has been anticipated a need for more space, in

particular another mutipurpose or gymnasium area, and larger and
more numerous community/class rooms.

Haddon Street entrance

30
 •, ,íS;'rcí.vM'

, 1

31

FLOOR PLAN
0 12 24 36
PRIMARY SPACE ALLOCATION AND AREA TABULATIONS

1. Entry vestible with automatic doors ác covered drop-off/waiting area lífO SF

2. Main lobby 1870 SF
3. Employee entrance with covered outdoor area
^. Main spine for circuiation, seating & dispiay 1800 SF
5. Reception desk 100 SF
6. Day Care Facilities includes playing, eating & sleeping areas, ofíice, storage,
sink ôc toilet 1600 SF
7. Kitchen 300 SF
8. Storage for multi-purpose space 360 SF
9. Multi-purpose space includes movable wall partition, ramp to stage 8000 SF
10. Stage facilities includes dressing areas, toilet, storage, sound <5c light
equipment 1750 SF
11. Women's restroom 200, 180, 160 SF
12. Mens restroom 280, 2^*0, 160 SF
13. Sports equipment office 250 SF
l'*. Receiving room 170 SF
15. Lounge area indudes snack bar, table seating, & reading area 670 SF
16. Exercise room 670 SF
17. Women's locker 6c shower room 900 SF
18. ' Men's locker & shower room 900 SF
19. 3anitor room includes desk, sink & rack storage HO SF
20. Outdoor maintenance room 130 SF
21. Multi-purpose meeting & classroom 750 SF
22. Large classroom/workshop 1200 SF
23. Resource center includes oífice, small meeting room, audio room åc seating
areas 1200 SF
2^. Secretarial <5c meeting room 225 SF
25. Administrator's suite 500 SF
26. Atrium 1000 SF
27. Secretarial area 2 @ 550 SF = 1100 SF
28. Staff lounge with kitchenette ^f^O SF
29. Conference room ^fOO SF
30. Offices 18 (a 120 SF each = 2160 SF
31. Future expansion space for workshops, classrooms & offices (size may vary)
32. Future swimming facilities 6300 SF
 Automatic sliding door opening from lobby to lounge

Phone and water fountain appropriately designed for use by the

chairbound 32
 Men's shower area - shower heads too low for anv user

Men's Locker Room - lavatories with knee space, yet counter height
is too high for the chairbound
33
Men's Locker Room - appropriately designed shower to serve âil
users

Roomy Circulation Corridor on North side of facility

34
ComServe: A Comprehensive Human Service System

In Canada, ComServe ( comprehensive community services ) provides

system which has the authority to coordinate services within a
geographical region, to meet individual needs and to add or change
services as needed (Hutchinson, 1979). ComServe assists each
consumer and/or parent who seeks coordination assistance. It is
this concept of individual coordination which has excited many
parents who were previously totally frustrated running from one
agency to another seeking service, often to be told that nothing
could be done. ComServe accepts responsibility for ensuring that
consumer is provided with quality services. Parents and consumers
now have only one body which is responsible for their service needs.
ComServe has also set up a training division, whose role it is to
work with generic agency staff to change attitudes and develop
competence in working with individuals who have disabilities.

ComServe is based on the following new assumptions which provide

increased support for community participation.

1. A commitment to normalization and integration is essential.

2. A wide range of services without gaps is necessary as an

alternative to institutionalization.

3. Community services should be planned and coordinated as part of

a rationalized continuum.

4. Full utilization of generic community services should be made

wherever possible.

5. Community programs and services should be coordinated for each

consumer as needed.

6. Services need to be small and specialized. That is, a program's

function should be residential or recreational or vocational, but not
a mix. To not specialize services is to be "all things to all people,"
resulting in low quality, institutionally-oriented service.

ComServe, while technical in many ways, is really about consumer

participation and control, accountability, and decentralized as
opposed to centralized services. For these reasons, ComServe is not
a popular political issue. It asks civil servants and politicians to

35
give authority to regional community groups. This requires
fundamental changes in social values and priorities to create a more
mijtnhin.Qnn 1979).
humane future (Hutchinson, IQ7Q^

36
This facility will be designed to serve the Dallas-Fort Worth
Metropolitan area. When selecting a specific site, various criteria
should be used to determine appropriateness of the choice.

First. the selected site should be centrally located to the majority

of the population. The size should be adequate for the proposed
facility and grounds, a minimum of 8 - 10 acres. The configuration
of the site must be appropriate for the facility as well as
possessing good subsoil conditions to support the building and
provide good drainage off the site. Attractive vegetation and
landscaping would be desirable because of many outdoor activities
that will take place at the facility.

The site must have adequate utilities available to support the

building and have connections available nearby, and of course zoning
must be compatible with the intended use.

Good access is also a major consideration for the site. There should
be access to major transportation centers and a major highway near
the site. If possible, there should be a direct route from the main
highway to the site for easy orientation.

The ability to screen outdoor activities and parking from major

thoroughfares should also be investigated, and there should also be
shaded protection for parking.

Climate

The Dallas-Fort Worth Climate is humid and subtropical with hot

summers. It is characterized by a wide range of temperature
extremes. Annual precipitation averages 32 inches, but varies
considerably from year to year. A large part of the annual
precipitation results from thunderstorm activity, with heavy
rainfall over brief periods of time. The greatest amounts of rain
occur during the months of April and May, with July and August being
the driest. Hail falls occasionally, about two or three days in a year,
with only slight scattered damage. Windstorms during thunderstorm
activity can be destructive. Snowfall is rare with a measurable
amount occurring only a few days a year (Rufner & Bair, 1985).

37
Winters are mild, but are often accompanied by sudden and extreme
drops in temperature. Periods of extreme cold are short-lived, and
even in January mild weather can occur. In an average year,
temperature minimums of 20 degrees or below occur on only six
days. To protect outdoor areas and extend their use, buffers against
the cold north winds are recommended. Areas occupied during
daytime hours will welcome the warming sunshine (Rufner & Bair
1985).

Summer's high temperatures are associated with fair skies,

westerly winds and low humidities. Hot spells are broken into 3-5
day periods by thunderstorm activity. A few nights each summer the
minimum temperature exceeds 80 degrees, but daytime
temperatures often exceed 100 degrees. These temperatures require
winter heating and summer cooling. Outdoor activities in the
summer need lots of ventilation and shading from the sun

The building should use winter sun to warm and should be protected
from solar heat gain in the summer.

38
In reviewing the amount of space provided for the various activities,
one will realize the amount of square footage listed is larger than
average. Keep in mind this facility will be accommodating a large
number of chairbound users and they require more room for even
basic movements.

Entry/Lobby 150o n.s.f.

This space will serve to welcome and orient one to the center and
should facilitate social interaction among users. There should be
room for seating and displays of pertinent information.

Circulation Desk 200 n.s.f.

Centrally located in or near the Entry/Lobby, the circulation desk
will be the single point of control for all users entering and leaving
the facility. There will be at least one employee or volunteer to
provide information and supervise ingress and egress.

Equipment Check-Out Desk 150 n.s.f.

This area could be located adjacent to or serve in conjunction with
the Circulation Desk. Here, users will check in and out athletic
equipment and games, receive locker assignments, etc. A storage
area should be incorporated to house the equipment.

Administrative Suite 1545 n.s.f.

All offices should be function in the same area, except perhaps the
Recreation Directors office. This space should be located near
major activities areas as the Recreation Director will be tramed in
CPR and first-aid in case of accidents. However, privacy and noise
control should also be a concern for all offices. Also, the Staff
Lounge could be located apart from offices if deemed necessary.
Secret^ry/Rjéception/Waiting 200 n.s.f.
Directôr 175 n.s.f.
Assistar)^ Director 150 n.s.f.
Recreation Director 150 n.s.f.
Staff Counselor 120 n.s.f.
Community Liaison 120 n.s.f.
Workroom 130 n.s.f.
Staff Lounge 200 n.s.f.
Conference Room 300 n.s.f.

39
Social Agency Offices each 125 n.s.f.
The 20 Social Agency Office spaces will be available to lease for
various social agencies who will counsel and assist the handicapped
( such as Texas Rehabilitation Commission, Southwest Wheelchair
Athletic Association, Dallas Council for the Blind, etc. ). An entire
scope of services will be available to the disabled for a "one-stop
shopping" type of environment.

Classrooms/Community Rooms each 1000 n.s.f.

Provide 4 of these rooms which will be essentially for training the
disabled in various programs and will also be available to rent for
any community resident to hold meetings, conferences, and other
activities. One room will be furnished as a residential type space
containing a linear demonstration kitchen and utility area to train
the disabled for an independent lifestyle.

Library/Resource Room 900 n.s.f.

This area will house all types of information related to a
handicapped persons' needs. TDT phones will be available for the
deaf to send and receive correspondence. A computer which can read
any type of print and vocalize what it has read will be available for
use by the blind.

Lounge/ Game Room 700 n.s.f.

This space is programmed to have an area large enough for a
handicap accessible pool table and will also be fitted with smaller,
more intimate space for playing board games and cards and other
quiet activities.

Day Care Center 1750 n.s.f.

Day care of 40 - 50 disabled children will be the main concern for
this area. The Day Care Center could have its own entrance as well
as being connected with the rest of the facility.

Day Care Room 1600 n.s.f.

The main room for play and other daily activities. It
should open directly onto a fenced-in playground that
is handicapped accessible. The Day Care Room should
also be accessible to the Kitchen.

40
 Day Care Directors Office 120 n.s.f.
This office should be in close proximity to the Day
Care Room and easily accessible to parents leaving
their children at the facility.

Children's Restroom 30 n.s.f.

Adjacent to the Day Care Room, this restroom should
be specifically scaled to easily accommodate children
with handicaps.

K'tchen 650 n.s.f.

The Kitchen would be programmed as a commercial type facility,
serving the needs of those in the Day Care Facility as well as being
available for use to community residents renting other facility
rooms. Programs training the poor and disable for work in the food
service industry can also take place here. Inclusive in Kitchen is
square footage needed for Dishwashing.

Multipurpose Courts each 7500 n.s.f.

Each of the 3 courts should be the size of a college length basketball
court with some space at the perimeter. Ceiling heights should
accommodate basketball, volleyball, badminton, gymnastics, etc.
The floor should be a polyurethane type which can be less injurious
should a fall take place. Provide color-coded markings for each
activity (see Activity/Spatial Summary).

These areas should be divisible into smaller spaces by some type of

partition. A large garage-type door should open to the outside to
facility the transfer of large equipment. The Multipurpose Courts
would also be programmed for use by the community, whether for
basketball leagues or wedding receptions or any other type activity
where large assembly space is needed. Also, these spaces should
have access to the Kitchen.

Each court should have some room for spectators, but one court
would be designated an Event Court and should have viewing area to
accommodate 500 people. One example of use for the Event Court
would be Wheelchair Basketball which is known to draw many
interested spectators. This type of activity can help educate the
community about the disabled and their needs, abilities, and desires.

41
Indoor Running Track 5000 n.s.f.
A 3 lane, 12' wide track with banked corners and guide rails for the
blind. The track's square footage may vary, depending upon its
placement which will affect the total length. Careful consideration
should be given to circulation conflicts with users running around
the track and those going to and from other activities.

Handball/Raquetball Courts each 800 n.s.f.

Provide 2 20'x40'x20' courts which should have an entry throughâ
wall of full height glass for viewing

Weight Room 1520 n.s.f.

This room will contain equipment from Nautilus Independence Line
which are weight stations specially designed for the chairbound, yet
are usable by the able-bodied. A stretching and warm-up area should
be provided adjacent to the weight training area.

Multipurpose Room 1500 n.s.f.

This room should be mirrored in the front and at least on one side
wall. Aerobics, karate, wrestling and other similar activities could
take place here. An appropriate cushioned flooring should be used to
reduce injuries such as shin splints. Walls and ceiling should
provide acoustical absorption and control for musically
choreographed exercise classes. Even the deaf can participate in
these type activities, but noise levels are potentially high as the
deaf simply feel the vibrations of the music if volume levels are
sufficiently high.

Swimming Pool 9400 n.s.f.

The Pool should be 25 yards long, 6 lanes wide (42'), and 4' deep. The
pool should be equipped with lifts and ramps as well as grab bars. It
should be surrounded by deck space. Provide a spectator gallery to
serve 100 (see Activity/Space Summary for square footage).

The heated pool should be in a conditioned space during inclement

and extreme weather conditions. However, if possible, all or part of
the exterior envelope of the pool should be removable to allow
outdoor use of the pool during periods of good weather and to allow
sunbathing.

Air locks and other HVAC consideration should be considered due to

the caustic nature and humidity put-off by the chlorinated water.
Space considerations for filtration equipment is included in

42
Mechanical/Circulation. The pool should be located as close to the
locker rooms as possible, remembering that people in wet bathing
suits will be trafficking back and forth.

Locker Rooms each 900 n.s.f.

Provide a men's and women's locker rooms consisting of 4 distinctly
different zones.There should be careful consideration in flooring and
moisture control.

DryZone 260 n.s.f.

Lockers for 150 and room for changing.

Semi-dry Zone 140 n.s.f.

4 toilets

Wet Zone 300 n.s.f.

6-8 showers

High Humidity Zone 200 n.s.f.

Whirlpool and Sauna

Storage 750 n.s.f.

Provide a large storage area (500 n.s.f.) adjacent to the multipurpose
courts for gymnastic apparatus, etc. Other storage ares should be
distributed throughout the facility as needed.

Restrooms 700 n.s.f.

Handicapped accessible restrooms should be located throughout the
building with their placement contingent upon final distribution of
space.

Mechanical and Circulation 30% of g.s.f.

Although this is not a net square footage item, these type facilities
are HVAC intensive. Depending upon final spatial configurations, a
central Chiller/Boiler Room with large fan units located on each
floor may be the best solution

Due to the large volumes of space, high number of btu's resulting

from highly active user participation, and humidity and chlorinated

43
environments, a large number of air-changes per hour are required
for user comfort.

Also, since this facility is designed for highly intensive handicapped

use, a larger than average percentage of square footage will be
needed to provide circulation for the chairbound.

44
Outdoor Actlvity/Spatial Analysis

Líghted Tennis Courts

Provide regulation Tennis Courts with wind netting and lights.
Correct orientation is important.

Softball Díamond
Provide an area for a Softball Diamond with backstop, dugouts, and
spectator seating

Walking/Jogging Trail
A 6' wide synthetic track with concrete sub-base should extend
throughout the facility grounds and screened from major traffic
arteries. The track should be well lit for use after dark and an
adjacent warm-up and stretching area should be located at the point
of origin.

Playground
An enclosed playground should be adjacent to the Day Care Center.

Parking ,uft
Provide one space per 100 gross square feet of building area with
20% of the spaces designed for wheelchair transfer. A covered entry
should be provided to facilitate the dropping- off of users.

45
Æ\©ywaíí^/i[p)giíígiil] iyinnimsi[r^

The space allocations per person, when first inspected, may seem
somewhat extravagant. But one must remember this facility is
designed for usage by many chairbound, and their needs require more
room for even basic movements. This facility is programmed for a
high percentage of users who are ambulatory disabled. In actuality,
these spaces will accommodate many more able-bodied persons.

Boldface type denotes the number used to obtain the total square
footage when space usage overlaps.

46
Activity No. of Users Space Name Area/Person Net Square Notes
(sq. feet) Footage

Arrival 60 Entry/Lobby 25 1500 Spatial requirements

based on total number
of users as chairbound

Crowd Control & 5 Circulation 40 200

Orientation Desk

Equipment Equipment 30 150 Must have access to

Distribution Check-Out additional storage

Administration 6 Administration 1545 See activity/space

Suite analysis

Counseling 20 Social Agency 125 2500

Offices

Training & 200 Class/Community 20 4000

Group Meeting Rooms

Research, Reading 20 Library/Resource 45 9Û0

Communication Room
Activity No. of Users Space Name Area/Person Net Square Notes
(sq. feet) Footage

Social 160 Lounge 25 4000 This activity may be

Interaction 700 accomodated in other
spaces (i.e. spectating)

Day Care 50 Day Care Center 35 1750 See Activity/Spatial

Analysis

Food Preparation 10 Kitchen 65 650 Includes Dishwashing

& Training space

Basketball 7500/court 22500 These activities may

utilize the same space
Volleyball Multi-Purpose 4000/court 12000 depending upon
Courts frequency as demanded
Badminton by user. Number of
1800/court 5400 users varies with each
Indoor Soccer activity. See Activity
5000/field 10000 Spatial Analysis
Indoor Tennis
6000/court 18000
Gymnastics
20000
Activity No. of Users Space Name Area/Person Net Square Notes
(sq. feet) Footage

Jogging & 65 Indoor Running 75 5000 See Activity/Spatial

Running Track Analysis to clarify

Aerobics 35 36 1260
These activities may
Karate 15 100 1500 utilize the same space
Multi-Purpose depending upon the
Wrestling 10 Room 150 1500 frequency as demanded
by the users
Golf 3 200 600

Weightlifting 38 Weight Room 40 1520

Handball 2-6 800/court 1600 These activities may

utilize the same space
Squash 2-6 Raquetball 800/court 1600 depending upon the
Courts frequency as demanded
Raquetball 2-6 800/court 1600 by the users
Activity No. of Users Space Name Area/Person Net Square Notes
(sq. feet) Footage

Swimming 6 lanes Swimming 525/lane 9400 Sq. Footage includes

Pool deck area. Area for
filtration equipment
included in Mechanical

Spectating 4200 Social Interaction

100 Pool Gallery 7 700 would also take place
500 Event Court 7 3500 here

Changing Clothing,
Showering, 72 Locker Rooms 25 1800
Clothes Storage

Restrooms Restrooms 700 Minimum of 2 men's

and 2 women's in
addition to Locker
Rooms
Storage Storage

62865 Total Net Sq. '

Mechanical/ 30% of
Circulation Gross Sq.' 26942

89807 Gross Sq. Footage

 Entry/Lobby
Circulation Desk
Equipment Check-Out
Secretary/Recepfn /Wait
Director
Assistant Director
Recreation Director
Staff Counselor
Community Liaison
Workroom
Staff Lounge
Conference Room
Social Agency Offices
Classrooms/Community
Library/Resource Room
Lounge/Game Room
Day Care Room
Day Care Directors Office
Children's Restroom
Kitchen
Multipurpose Courts
Indoor Running Track
Raquetball Courts
Weight Room
Multipurpose Room
Swímming Pool 1
Locker Rooms
Storage

Space Adjacencies

Adjacent
Near
Separate
©@§t! [ÍêtÍfllFMt ©

Funding for the Multi-Service Recreational Center will come from

Federal Community Block Grants, with additional funds supplied by
the communities which the facility will serve.

For the purposes of this study, the Market Rent/Square Foot/Year

Cost was taken from an average of several retail centers in the Los
Colinas/lrving area. A Project/Building Ratio of 1.78 was used
because of the number of additional outdoor facilities. A Gross
Income Multiplier of 10 was used as pay back period for a
government building.

Market Rent/Sq. Ft./Yr. $60

Gross Building Area 89,807 Sq. ft.
Building Efficiency Ratio 70%
Gross Leasable Area 62,865
Potential Gross Income $3,771,900
Gross Income Multiplier 10
Total Project Value $37,719,000
Project/Building Ratio 1.78

Building Budget $21,190,449

Gross Building Area 89807
Building Area Cost/Sq. ft. $235.95

52
liBlbl]fl@g] 'ii[p[} ) ^

Collier, R. (1981). Rules and Regulations Including Standards And

Specifications. Austin, Texas: State Purchasing and General
Services Commission.

Geddes, D. M. (1977). Integrating Persons with Handicapping

Conditions Into Regular Physical Education and Recreation
Programs. Washington, D. C: AAHPER Publications.

Gray, D. E. (1969). The case of compensatory recreation. Parks and

Recreation 12(11): 22ff.

Harkness, S. P., & Groom, J. N., Jr. (1976). Buildings without

Barriers for the Disabled. New York: Watson-Guptill
Publications.

Hutchison, P., & Lord, J., (1979). Recreation Integration. Ottawa:

Leisurability Publications, Inc.

Kennedy, D. W., Austin, D. R., & Smith, R. W. Smith, (1987). Special

Recreation. Philadelphia: CBS College Publishing.

Rufner, J. A., & Bair, F. E., eds. (1985). Weather of U.S. Cities, Vol. 2.
Detroit: Gale Research Company.

Schleien, S. J. (1988). Community Recreation and Persons with

Disabilities: Strategies for Integration. Baltimore: Paul H.
Bookes Publishing Co., Inc.

Sorensen, R. J. (1979). Design for Accessibility. New York:

McGraw- Hill Book Company.

White, J. E., (1973). Planning Barrier-Free Architecture for

Recreation. Lubbock, Texas: Texas Tech University Press.

53
^ P l P ^ Ddlflxs

54
 TEMPERATURE ANO PRECIPITATION "
iRecorded In the perlod 1951-7« at Dallaa, Texas]

Temperature Preclpitatlon

ars in 1 <i years in T

Average I
10 wil 1 have- w i H have-- Average
Honth Average Average Average nufflber o f î A v e r a g e number oT Average
dally dally daily Haxifflum Hinimum
T
growlng î Le33 More daya with 3nowrall
maxImufli mlniraum temperature temperature dcgree I than-- than-' 0.10 inch
higher lower daya' I or raore
than — than —
Uni ta T—nr- 11 ~Tn~ Tn
I ~
January---- 55.6 35.4 45.5 82 11 58 ! 1.78 .72 2.63 4 1.3
I
February-— 60. 1 39.0 49.6 84 17 98 .91 2.98 4 .5
I 2.05
March 67.7 46.0 56.8 91 23 278 .75 H.02 4 .2
2.56
Aprll 76.7 56.0 66.4 92 35 192 2.09 7.01 6 .0
M.81
May 83.9 64.1 74.0 97 45 T\H 2.10 5.84 6 .0
1.16
June--—-- 91.4 71.9 81.7 101 58 951 1.00 4.61 4 .0
3.01
July 76.2 86.0 106 65 1 , 1 16 .37 3.17 3 .0
95.8
1.9<4
August—-— 75.3 85.5 106 64 1 , 101 .53 3.M1 3 .0
95.7
2.1U
September-- 68. 1 78.2 101 50 8K6 1.58 5.58. 5 .0
88.2
3.77
57.2 67.9 94 38 555 .88 6.23 4 .0
October 78.5
3.88
45.4 55.8 85 25 204 1.15 3.93 4 .0
November-- 66.0
2.69
48.3 82 16 87 .74 3.18 4 .2
December— 58.3 38.3 2.27

Tear-—- 76.5 66.3 107 11 6,530 ! 35.06 26.55 M3.03 51 2.2

56.1 I

' A growl ng degree day i s a u n i t of heat a v a i l a b l e for p l a n t g r o w t h . I t can be c a l c u l a t e d by adding the

maximum and minimum d a l l y t e m p e r a t u r e s . d i v i d i n g t h e 3um by 2 . and 3 u b t r a c t l n g the t e m p e r a t u r e below whlch
growth i s mi n i m a l f o r the p r i n c i p a l crop3 in the a r e a (50O F ) .
 6 PM Bearing W
Az. 0 deg 6 AM Bearing E
Az. 0 deg
4 PM Bearing 73 deg W
Az. 25 deg 8 AM Bearing 73 cteg E
Az. 25 deg
2 PM Bearing 47 deg W 10 AM Bearing 47 deg E
Az. 47 deg Az. 47 deg

12 N CN Bearinq S
Az. 58 dbg

6 PM Bearing 110 deg W

, AZ..13 deg 6 AM Eearing 110 dfeg E
Az. 13 deg
4 PM Bearing 96 deg W
Az. 37 deg 8 AM Bearing 96 cteg E
Az. 37 deg

2 PM Bearing 78 deg W 10 AM Bearing 78 deg E

Az. 62 cteg Az. 62 cteg

12 Wæ Bearing S
Az. 81 deg

4 PM Bearing 54 deg W
Az. 10 deg 8 AM Bearing 54 cieg E
Az. 10 cieg
2 PM Bearing 31 dfeg W 10 AM Bearing 31 deg E
Az. 27 deg
12 NOCN Eearing S ^ ' ^^ deg
Az. 34 deg
 Comparîson Chart
in Inches Comparlson Chart Key, pages 64-65
•'^r

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
ANS HUD BSCP NC 11 12 13 14
CCC NYS MICH ME VA FAC MASS INT LIST BWB
1. Wheelchair dimensions
a length 42 42 ns 48 42',^ 42 42
b openwidth ^25 27 ns 28 25 25 26
c collapsedwidih ii 11 ns 13'/> 11 13'/i
d seat to fioor 19Vt 19'/i ns 19'/i 19'/i 16'/i 19'/i
e armfest lo floof 29 29 ns 29'A 29 29 29
2. Parking stalls
a minimufn width 144 150 144 120 144 ns 162 108
3. Curb cuts 144 144 144 144
a maximum siope ns 1:12 1:3 ns 1:12
4. Public walks 1:12 ns 1:12 1:12
a minimum widlh 48 48 48 60 48 60 48 72 48
b maximumslope 48 48 60
1:20 1:20 1:20 1:20 1:20 1:20 1:33 1:20 1:20
5. Ramps 1:20 1:20
î a minimum widtli
b. maximum slope
48 48 48 36 ns 48 36 48 32 36
1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12 ns
c unbfoken lenglh 360 1:12 1:12
360 360 360 360 360 ns 360 408 360 360 360
d handrail height 32 36 32 33 32 32 32 32 33 30- 32 33
e handrail diameter 32
1'/4- ns ns
2 1'/4- ns
6. Platlorms al doors 2
a. door swing in 36x 48x 60x 48 60x ns 60
60 48 60 60x 36x 36x 60
long 60 long
b door swing out
60 60 60 wide
60x 48x 60x 48 60x ns 60 48 60x 60x 60x
60 48 60 long 60 long de«p 72 60 60 wide
7. Entry doors
a minimumclear
opening 32 36 31 32 32 32 32 32 40 32 34 36 32 34
b maximum pull 8lbs 8lbs ns 8lbs
c handleheight 6lbs 15lbs ns 8lbs
42 ns 42 ns 36 42 36- 36 36
8. Stairs 42
a. maximum riser
height 7% 6</> ns 7'/i
b maximum handrail 7'/i ns
height 32 36 32 33 32 32 32 33 ns 32 33
c handrail diameter ns
ns 1'/i- r/4- ns ns l'/i
d handrails both 2 2
sides? ye* yei yea ns ns yes yes ns yes yes
 61
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
ANS HUD BSCP NC CCC NYS MICH ME VA FAC MASSINT LIST BWB
9. Corridors
a. minimumwidth 60 48 42 48 60 36 48
b widthfor90° turn 60 60 54 60
c widthfor 180°turn ns 60 60 60
10. Elevaiors
a minimum
dimensions 69x 60x 60x 46 60x eSx 46x 48x 68x
43 60 60 deep 60 60 60 48 51
b minimum
door width 32 nc ns 36 32 32 36 32 36 34
c. maximum
conlrol height 54 48 55 60 60 ns 40 60 60 ns 48 60
d marl^ingsfor
the blind? yes yes ns yes yes yes ns yes ns yes yes
11. Public restrooms
a minimum toilet
stall width 36 54 36 42 36 48 56/ 36 66 36 36
42
b minimumtoilet
staiidepth 60 66 72 72 56 64 72/ 66 72 60 72
78
c. grab bar height
fromtloor 33 11' 33 33 32 33 30 32 33 8- 33 33
10'
d.ioiletseatheight 20 20 20 19 19- 15/ 19 18 16- 18
20 20 20
e washbasin heighl ns ns 26 ns ns ns 30 26 31
f washbasin controls lever lever lever/ wrlst ns lever/ lever ns lever
push blade wrlst
button blade
g washbasin depth
10 wall 24 27
h. mirror height 40 40 36 40 36 40 31- 40 40
69
I dispensers. shelves.
disposal units height 40 40 40 40 40 40 50'/i 40 40

' space tor one wheelchair and one ambulant disabled person
height trom toilet seat
Comparison
Chart Key

1 5
ANS CCC
American National Standards Institute, State of Caiifornia, Amendment to Cali-
\r\c., Specifications forMaking Buildings fornia Civil Code General Rules, Part 4.
and Facilities Accessible to, and Usable Amendment to Building Code, Draft # 1.
by, the Physically Handicapped.
6
2 NYS
HUD State of New York, Amendments to the
United States Department of Housing and State Building Construction Code Relat-
Urban Development, t^inimum Property ing to Facilities for the Physically Handi-
Standards for Multifamily Housing. capped.
(Covers many construction and systems
items that are not included in the chart.)
7
MICH
3 Stateof Michigan, Department of Man-
BSCP agementand Budget, Construction Divi-
The Council for Codes of Practice, British sion, Making Facilities Accessible forthe
Standards Institution, British Standard Handicapped, Rules Applying to andAct
CodeofPractice. Access forthe Disabled No. 1 of the Public Acts of 1966 and Act
toBuildings, Parîl: General Recommen- No. 243 ofthe PublicActs of 1970.
dations.
8
4 ME
NC State of Maine, Part 7, Public Buildings,
Ronald L. Mace; Betsy Laslett, ed., An II- Chapter331, Construction for Physically
lustrated Handbook ofthe Handicapped Handicapped.
Section ofthe North Carolina State Build- 9
ing Code. VA
Veterans Administration, Accommoda-
tions for the Physically Handicapped.
VA Construction Standard CD-28, H-08-3.
10
FAC
New York State University Construction
Fund, Making FacilitiesAccessible to the
Physically Handicapped.
 Metric
Conversions
11 Feel Meters

MASS 0 0.00000
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts 1
2
0.30480
0.60960
Department of Public Safety, Rules and 3 0.91440
Regulations of the Architectural Barriers 4
5
1.21920
1.52400
Board.FormABR-l. 6 1.82880
7 2.13360
12 8 2.43840
9 2.74321
INT 10 3.04801
Sharon C. Olson and Diane K. Meredith, 1 3.35281
2 3.65761
Wheelchair Interiors. 3 3.96241
4 4.26721
13 5 4.57201
LIST 6
7
4.87681
5.18161
Stateof California, prepared by John C. 8 5.48641
Worsley, AIA, State Architect, CheckList 20
9 5.79121
6.09601
and Graphic lllustrations. 1 6.40081
2 6.70561
14 3 7.01041
4 7.31521
BWB 5 7.62002
Sarah P. Harknessand James N. Groom, 6 7.92482
7 8.22962
Jr., Building without Barriers forthe Dis- 8 8.53442
abled. 9 8.83922
30 9.14402
1 9.44882
2 9.75362
3 10.05842
4 10.36322
5 10.66802
6 10.97282
7 11.27762
8 11.58242
9 11.88722
40 12.19202
1 12.49682
2 12.80163
3 13.10643
4 13.41123
5 13.71603
6 14.02083
7 14.32563
8 14.63043
9 14.93523
50 15.24003
Design Synopsis

Dur ng design deuelopement, círculatíon throughout the bullding

u.»as determined to be the most important issue for people ujith
disabilities. Therefore, neui , "senstiue" circulation systems
Luere designed to be ju taposed against traditional,
"insensitiue" actiuity spaces. The problem being the mouement
of users from space to space, as the spaces themselues do not
present a problem, giuen the furnishings are designed for the
disabled. The circulation elements uiere then, injected into the
actiuity spaces, ujhich uiere shifted and rotated to accomodate
the dominant circulation systems.

The final desiyn solution uias consistent uiith proyrammatic

requirements, uiith the follouiiny e ception: the daycare and
kitchen spaces uiere omitted, as these actiuities uiere
considered to be in conflict uiith other actiuities in the building.
 A RECREATION
CEISTTER FOR
PEOPLE WITH
HANDICAPS
Wade Laing
LEVEL 3
Spring 1989
{
LEVEL 2

i
r

( ) @ (1)

LEVEL 1
(
EAST ELEVATION

SOUTH ELEVATION
i
WEST ELEVATION

NORTH ELEVATION

i
 \
PL-
\\

\ kz

%^

^FFH
^
!T
j ^UJ
^ P —^rn ±-E
fi '
SECTION B-B
SECTION A-A

SECTION C-C