New anthology examines universal design as a tool for change

Universal design as a tool for profound societal changes is the overarching theme in a new scientific anthology from Bevica Foundation's interdisciplinary universal design research network, which has just been published.

This anthology is the second in the series from the research network. While the first explored what universal design looks like from an interdisciplinary perspective across research and practice, this one investigates Universal design as a tool for change how the concept can be both a creative force and a practical means to create social transformation in society.

“With this anthology, we take on the challenge by demonstrating how universal design can be approached critically and collaboratively to transform our environments, institutions, cultures, and relationships. Thus, all chapters in this collection treat social change not as a fixed concept, but as something to be explored – and universal design as a conceptual tool for precisely this exploration,” states the editorial team in the anthology's introduction.

The anthology is edited by research network members Mia Høj Mathiasson, Thomas Skovgaard Worm, Leif Hemming Pedersen, Valeria Borsotti and Roberta Cassi, all of whom also contribute chapters. The anthology also features contributions from 14 other members of the network.

Bevica Foundation's universal design research network comprises over 40 researchers representing more than 10 research-based universities in Denmark. The network is interdisciplinary, and this interdisciplinary approach has been a key guiding principle in the creation of the anthology, explains Research Director at the Bevica Foundation, Camilla Ryhl.

“As with [the first anthology] from the research network, it was a requirement that members collaborate on chapters across disciplines. This interdisciplinary approach offers a new and interesting perspective on how to work with and practice universal design, thereby contributing to the development of the field of knowledge,” she states.

The anthology Universal Design as a tool for change has been published by The Architect's Press. The anthology can be downloaded for free at the top of the article.

‍