Evaluation of Universal Design Approach from the Perspective of Urban Planning Discipline

All individuals in society need different usage patterns in urban interior and exterior spaces according to their own abilities and skills. Previously, the solution to this situation was the barrier-free design approach that appealed to groups with special needs in society. However, today, the universal design approach aims to respond to the needs of individuals with different abilities and situations with products and spaces that they can use equally. This article aims to evaluate universal design, which is an inclusive design approach for everyone, from the perspective of urban planning discipline. Individuals with different needs in society (disabled, elderly, children, pregnant women, parents using baby strollers and passengers, etc.) encounter many problems in urban interior and exterior spaces. In this sense, everyone's needs should be taken into consideration when making urban plans and designs. In the theoretical background section of the article, the emergence of the universal design approach in the historical process is evaluated. Then, the concept of universal design, its principles, its importance and its integration into the planning discipline are discussed and suggestions are presented. Planning and organizing urban spaces by taking into account universal design principles will contribute to the improvement of the quality of life of everyone using the city.