Universal Design
Universal Design is the design of products, services, and environments to be usable and understood by everyone—regardless of age, size, ability, or disability.
At its core, Universal Design ensures that spaces are accessible, functional, and welcoming for people with diverse needs. In a more focused sense, it refers to the design of the built environment—making it accessible, convenient, and a pleasure to use.
A well-designed product, built with Universal Design principles, serves people of all abilities without the need for adaptation or special features.
For example, a mobile phone with large buttons benefits seniors with reduced vision and people with visual impairments—no extra tools or modifications required.
Universal Design Features in the Enabling Village
At the Enabling Village, inclusivity is built into every corner. Designed with accessibility in mind, our space incorporates a range of Universal Design features that support independent mobility and meaningful participation for all.
Barrier-Free Movement
Originally a school compound, the Enabling Village has been thoughtfully retrofitted to support barrier-free access.
Multi-storey blocks are equipped with lifts, and steps have been replaced by gently sloped ramps—suitable for manual wheelchairs, motorised scooters, and strollers alike.
All upgrades are in accordance with the Building and Construction Authority’s (BCA) Universal Design guidelines.
Hearing Loops
Also known as audio induction loops, these systems transmit sound directly to hearing aids, filtering out background noise.
Installed in performance and event spaces, they allow individuals with hearing loss to enjoy clear audio during announcements, music, and presentations.
Braille Signs
Essential signs—such as washroom doors and staircase handrails—are fitted with braille to support independent navigation for blind or visually impaired visitors.
Tactile Floor Indicators
Tactile tiles, similar to those found in MRT stations and public walkways, are used throughout the Enabling Village to guide visitors with visual impairments.
Bar or block tiles help direct movement, while round bump tiles signal important cues, such as approaching crossings or changes in level.
Awards
President’s Design Award
The President’s Design Award is Singapore’s most prestigious design accolade, recognising excellence in advertising design and visual communications, architecture and urban design, fashion design, furniture design, interior design, landscape design, product and industrial design.
The Enabling Village received the 2016 Design of the Year Award for its demonstration of heartland rejuvenation and community building, integrating education, work, training, retail and lifestyle, connecting people with disabilities and the wider society.
BCA Universal Design Award
The Enabling Village is a Platinum winner of the 2016 BCA Universal Design Mark Award, presented by the Building and Construction Authority. Refurbished from an existing training site, the Enabling Village demonstrates how innovation and accessibility is possible even with challenging terrain and physical barriers. Read more about the BCA Universal Mark Award from BCA’s media release.
Inclusive spaces should not only be barrier-free physically, but also sociable, comfortable, and engaging for all visitors.
In collaboration with our partner, STUCK, we have created an inclusve design playbook that can help you achieve excellence in Universal Design and understand it better.
