An Inquiry into Universal Design and Accessibility for Ambulatory Disabilities in Commercial Spaces of DHA Neighborhood of Lahore

Abstract

Pakistan is a country where approximately 31 million people live with disabilities, yet majority of built environment continues to be designed on the assumption of an "ideal normal body" of Vitruvius’ "Vitruvian Man" and Le Corbusier's "Modular Man". Diversity and flexibility in design are the key for the success of any public area. If diversity of experience does not accommodate any group, it creates a sense of exclusion and inferiority. The study focuses on commercial buildings in DHA Lahore, a prominent housing authority known for enforcing construction by-laws that aim to promote accessibility. By examining how well these buildings adhere to universal design principles and international accessibility standards, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the research assesses the extent of inclusivity of people with ambulatory disability in this high-end development zone. The methodology includes qualitative research, with interviews of building owners and designers, and surveys of 27 commercial buildings, assessing key accessibility features such as parking, ramps, doorways, vertical circulation, and restrooms. Findings reveal significant variations in accessibility across different building types, highlighting both compliance gaps and areas for improvement in ensuring full participation of people with ambulatory disabilities.

Keywords: Universal Design, Accessibility, DHA Lahore, Disabled Access, ADA Guidelines, Inclusive Architecture