Inclusive Outdoor Furniture Design

The percentage of people over 65 years of age continues to increase dramatically and is now over 8 percent of the total population. Add to that the number of mobility-challenged and temporarily disabled individuals and the result is an enormous number of people who have specialized needs. And currently, these needs are not being met. As an innovator in outdoor site furnishings for nearly 50 years, ANOVA believes that bringing communities together is a key component to success. With this in mind, Anova hosted a Charrette to understand the true needs of this underserved population as it pertains to furniture design.

The goal was not simple: Establish guidelines for designing outdoor furniture that served the needs of independent living seniors as well as mobility-challenged individuals of any age.
The first step was to acknowledge there is a design gap, with few choices in furnishings that directly meet the needs of this population. “Quick fixes” that modify existing furniture can work, but the end result is ultimately inferior with regards to aesthetics as well as inclusivity. The furniture that is modified as an afterthought “sticks out” rather than being cohesive with the surrounding furniture.

The Charrette participants consisted of landscape architects, designers, and healthcare professionals specializing in physical and occupational therapy.
° SSM Health                      ° Washington University
° Dix.Hite                            ° Pi Architects
° Hawkins Partners            ° Iconic Revolution
° Anova

Recommendations

° Open area under seats to allow for foot placement
° Sturdy armrests of appropriate height and width
° High back seats provide better support to neck and back
° Substantial weight to prevent tipping, while light enough to move
° Wide table base with recessed table legs
° Seat depth should not be excessive
° Wider, sturdy seats to accommodate many shapes and sizes
° Curved/rolled seat edge where back of knee rests

Thoughtfully designed, the Elevation Collection focuses on inclusive features that assure comfortable, accessible furniture that brings communities together.