Architects' Institute Launches New Policy on Universal Access to Buildings

James Pike

The RIAI calls on building owners and developers to engage with architects in developing buildings which meet the highest European and international standards in accessibility The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) has launched a new policy on ensuring that everybody – no matter what their level of ability or disability is – can access buildings. The launch took place on 3 December 2006 to mark International Day for People with Disabilities. The RIAI is the representative body for qualified architects in Ireland.

Speaking at the launch, RIAI President, James Pike, said that Ireland is now at a critical stage in the development of its built environment.

"Half of our housing stock and significant quantities of commercial, leisure, educational and institutional buildings are under construction and a large proportion of the existing building stock is being renovated. It is of vital importance that these are built to the highest national and international standards and employ best practice in all aspects – design, accessibility, sustainability.

"To this end the RIAI has adopted a new policy on accessibility which is aimed at providing architects with a framework to design and create accessible buildings. The policy sets out what the Institute as a corporate body will endeavour to achieve in its efforts to promote, inform and educate on best practice initiatives in universal access. The RIAI will through this policy as well as its educational seminars and member briefings continue to promote 'best practice'.

"However, we, in Ireland need to go much further. In particular, we need to ensure that developers and building owners implement the highest standards by providing certainty and clarity in interpretation of the Building Regulations and by having a proper monitoring system in place."

James Pike said at the launch that architects need to impress upon their clients the importance of giving the issues connected with providing long-term accessibility appropriate consideration. "As the international standards in building design increase, Ireland should be positioning itself at the forefront of implementing these standards, not be content with simply carrying out the minimum necessary."

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