CASE STUDY

UNIVERSAL DESIGN

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IKEA CASE STUDY UNIVERSAL DESIGN ASSIGNMENT

WHAT IS UNIVERSAL DESIGN?

Universal design (sometimes also called inclusive design or
barrier-free design) is the design and structure of an environ-
ment so that it can be understood, accessed, and used to the
greatest extent possible by all people regardless of their age or
ability.

IKEA STORE
IKEA stores incorporate universal design principles by provid-
ing accessible and inclusive spaces, clear wayfinding, com-
fortable seating, flexible product displays, and an overall wel-
coming atmosphere. These features contribute to making the
shopping experience more inclusive and enjoyable for a wide
LOCATION - Mindspace Road
range of customers, regardless of their age, abilities, or cultural Hyderabad, Telangana
backgrounds. BUILDING - Home Furnishing store
AREA - 90,000 sqm
INCLUSIVE STORE LAYOUT
• Designed with wide, open aisles and clear
pathways that can accommodate people with
mobility challenges, including those using
wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers.

• This layout allows for easy navigation and mini-

mizes obstacles.

• A self-rotating door that revolves

a door that can be manually or
automatically operated.

• Diameter of the door is around 3m

• A flat topography is more • Designed to accommodate indi-

accessible,for physically
challenged people,strollers
or people carrying heavy
loads.
viduals with disabilities, including
wheelchair users, by providing
wider compartments or automat-
ic features
• Stairs and Escalators allow proper
traffic flow for all age groups of
people.
LOW HEIGHTS DISPLAY
• Many of the products in IKEA are displayed at a reachable height, making it easier for people of various
heights and abilities to access and examine items without assistance.

• This approach is particularly helpful for those with mobility limitations or people of different heights,
such as children and adults.

• Height of handrails is around 0.75m

and 1.1m for all age groups to use.

• Wash basins, Drinking taps &

urinals around 0.9-1.1m is provided.
MULTI-LINGUAL SIGNAGE
• They often use internationally recognized symbols and icons along with multiple languages on sig-
nage to cater to a diverse customer base, which can be helpful for individuals with language barriers or
non-native speakers.

Signages are provided in every angles

from top and also on the walkways for
different people of every age group.

• Maps to show clear pathways

so most user groups can un-
derstand.
PRODUCT INFORMATION & DISPLAY
• They provide product information in multiple formats, including text and images, which can be helpful
for individuals with visual or reading impairments.
• Product signage and labels are clear and easy to understand, promoting a universal understanding of
the items available.
ACCESSIBLE AMENITIES
• They provide accessible restrooms and family-friendly amenities, including nursing rooms and play ar-
eas for children. These features enhance the shopping experience for a broader range of customers.
LIGHTING
• The stores use a combination of natural and artificial lighting to create a comfortable and well-lit envi-
ronment.
• Adequate lighting is crucial for people with visual impairments or those who require clear visibility for
reading product labels.
SEATING AREAS
• IKEA stores often include seating areas scattered throughout the showrooms, which provide a place to
rest for customers who may need a break due to fatigue or mobility challenges.
INCLUSIVE RESTROOMS
• They typically have restrooms that are accessible and equipped with facilities for people with disabili-
ties.

• Washrooms for people in wheelchair is around 1.5m x 2m and 0.8m for the heights of washbasin.
• They provide bar handles in the washroom to help the users access the washroom easily without assistance.
• Tissue rolls are placed at a height of around 0.7m.
• There is an emergency button for user is in trouble or need of assistance.
PARKING

ACCESSIBLE PARKING SPACE

• They typically includes designated accessible parking spaces in their

parking lots.
• These spaces are wider than standard parking spots, making it easier
for individuals with mobility issues to get in and out of their vehicles.
• They are also located close to store entrances for convenience.

CLEAR SIGNAGE

• Parking feature clear signage to indicate the location of accessible

parking spaces, as well as the route to the store entrance.
• These signs often use universally recognized symbols, making them
easily understandable by people with diverse linguistic and cognitive
abilities.
 DESIGNATED DROP OFF POINTS
• They have designated drop-off zones near the entrances,
which can be particularly helpful for people with mobility
impairments who may not be driving themselves but need to
be dropped off and picked up by others.
• Access to parking spaces and drop-off zones close to store
entrances, reducing the distance that people with mobility
challenges need to travel to access the store.

STROLLER FRIENDLY FEATURES

• Parking lots are also designed to be stroller-friendly, making it

convenient for parents with young children.
RAMPED WALKWAYS
• Accessible routes with ramps and curb cuts are provided to enable people using wheelchairs or mobili-
ty aids to move from the parking area to the store entrance safely and easily.

ASSISTANT SERVICES
• They offer assistance services, such as staff support and shopping carts with built-in wheelchairs, to
help customers with disabilities or special needs.