1. HOLARCHIES FOR BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF UNIVERSAL DESIGN AS A SOCIALLY INCLUSIVE FACTOR International Conference
on Best Practices in
Universal Design
Marcelo Pinto Guimarães, Ph.D. – Director of ADAPTSE LAB – Professor in School of Architecture at Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais
The universal design factors should be viewed through holarchies
in which it may be both cause and consequence of users‟
experience in innovative structures for environments and
concept body autonomy assistive technology information that aim at providing equal opportunities for everyone.
idea mind independence technical assistance
insigth spirit spontaneity inclusive practices Universal design might become a system of omnipresent,
discreet and inspirational ideas as reference of maximum
quality for built structures and information networks.
w h o l e s It implies the cultural interface that exists between design
professionals and all expert users as the only representation
possible for addressing the needs of the general population.
w i t h i n fact person privacy adapted design
We may transcend the lowest level of concrete operational
o t h e r aspects of this concept towards the paradigm of
constructivism, in which truth is accepted as
w h o l e s result of multiple minds that share values and
holons mechanism tribe accessibility adaptable design
experiences.
However, solutions based on discreet, efficient and
coherent measures will be consolidated in cycles
through wide continuous processes. This will align
multiple influences of problem related factors that
The aim of this approach is to illustrate the holistic nature of universal
are design from the cross-combinations in hierarchical structure of model family liberty
standards for
accessibility
may be situated in distant sources. As we
approach problematic issues through a
complementary perspectives.
holistic rational, we may see the
juxtaposition of distinct points of view
This work suggests that the concept of universal design can be explained
of multiple linear reasoning, and we
in the context of holarchies: a holistic hierarchical structure of major
make them become meaningful through
water dimensions that address social inclusion of all, and particularly, of people
who experience disability as result of mobility and wayfinding problems in network community solidarity adequate design unprecedented multi-dimensional
perception.
built environments.
drops Understanding a new logic for socially inclusive practices is needed for
everyone to share accessibility provisions on similar grounds, instead of
few people integrating limited accessibility into their life experiences only.
system population equal opportunities universal design
The structure of relationships between human oriented design principles,
which is based on holarchies, may explain the links of important concepts
such as autonomy, personal space, universal design, accessibility and
socially inclusive practices.
That can be read as: “universal design is a system of good ideas that provides equal opportunities for the whole population through design.”
Structural holistic patterns may behave erratic depending on the
standpoint in multiple perspectives.
The holistic perspective may become clearer due to context, consensus and knowledge.
A flow between essence It is by understanding the wealth of contextual factors that complexity becomes easy and seems simple.
and significance may The global view of things defines the context in which they may happen.
vary according to the If we don't face certain problems along with possible factors that build their complexity,
perspective of then we may realize that envisioned solutions will loose strength and validity over time.
observers as they
Consensus means respect for the value of exploring unique contributions of distinct perspectives despite such contributions coming from the
consider
most vulnerable people. Before we think of reaching progress up to a certain standpoint we ought to consider achieving goals collectively.
recognizing
one pair or more Finally, knowledge guarantees mutual respect to those involved in the consensus making process. More than simple flow of information through
of hierarchical absorption and ties, knowledge enriches each one of the people involved with clear understanding about the different points of view
holons. that best portrays the global context.
The horizontal or vertical configuration of relationships Knowledge replaces stigma and foster agreements about improvements that can be made in the fit relationship between humans
among holons varies according to and built environments. No matter how much delay, meaningful results can be
context, the intent and the attention of the one who studies them. accomplished and preserved through generations.
The holistic perspective allows us to work with both holons and their baseline
e h o ll a r c h ii e s
ho arch es
Escola de Arquitetura U.F.M.G.
PATROCINIO DA APRESENTAÇÃO
POSTER PRESENTATION FUNDED BY
NPGAU EAUFMG
REFERENCES
[1] A. Koestler, The Ghost in the Machine. Penguin reprint 1990: ISBN 0-14-019192-5. 1967
holons are oceans
[2] K. Wilber, Integral Psychology: Consciousness, Spirit, Psychology, Therapy. ISBN 1-57062-554-9. 2004
[3] R. Nisbett. The Geography of Thought: How Asians and Westerners Think Differently and Why. New York: Freepress. 2004
[4] R. Mace, Universal Design, Barrier-free Environments for Everyone. Los Angeles, CA: Designers West. 1985
[5] C. Alexander. A Pattern Language: Towns, Buildings, Construction. Oxford University Press, USA, 1216. 1977
[6] M.P. Guimarães, “Uma Abordagem Holística na Prática do Design Universal” (a holistic approach in Universal Design practice) In Avanços e Desafios na Construção de uma Sociedade Inclusiva. R. Correa (edt). Belo Horizonte: PUC-MG, 2008. Pp 88-104