Inclusive furniture is often mistakenly seen as a separate product “for people with disabilities.” But good inclusive design works for a much wider range of people: children, parents with strollers, older adults, veterans recovering from injuries, temporarily injured visitors, and anyone who simply needs a comfortable place to rest.
Inclusion does not begin with a label on a table. It begins with the ability to reach it independently, sit comfortably, communicate with others as an equal, and leave the space safely.
Furniture Cannot Be Designed Separately from the Route
Even a properly designed table will not work if the route to it includes a narrow passage, a high curb, or a soft surface where wheels can get stuck.
The entire route needs to be considered: the entrance, surface, slope, passage width, turning space, and access to nearby areas.
What Should Be Considered in the Furniture
• clear space under the tabletop for wheelchair access;
• the ability to choose where to sit rather than being limited to a separate “special” area;
• a stable structure without hazardous protruding elements;
• comfortable seat height and support for people who find it difficult to stand up;
• sufficient contrast between furniture, ground surfaces, and the edges of elements;
• enough space for a companion, child, or guide dog;
• surfaces that are easy to clean and maintain.
Common MistakesA Separate Table Far Away from Everyone Else
Technically, an accessible place exists, but the person is separated from the rest of the group.
An inclusive table should support shared use and communication.
There Is Access, but No Space to Manoeuvre
Simply removing one section of a bench is not enough.
You need to check whether a person can approach comfortably, turn around, and leave the space independently.
One Universal Height for EveryoneDifferent spaces may require different solutions.
A playground, school courtyard, hospital, and city square all have different users and usage scenarios.
Designing Without Involving People
Even an experienced designer may overlook a barrier that another person encounters every day.
That is why a mock-up, prototype, or testing with future users can provide much more value than simply meeting a formal requirement.
Why We Are Developing This Area
The war has increased the number of people who face temporary or permanent mobility limitations in everyday life.
Ukrainian cities need to change now, not only after reconstruction is complete. Every new bench, table, or public space is an opportunity not to repeat the barriers of the past.
For Recast Plastic, inclusivity is part of quality. If a significant number of people cannot use a product comfortably, it cannot truly be considered a successful design.