Pedestrian circulation & accessibility Print

Design Outcome


​​​​​​​​​​​​Design Checklist​

  1. Circulation spaces allow easy access for all people, regardless of age and ability.
  2. Circulation spaces are functional and safe
  3. Primary circulation spaces maximise access to daylight and natural ventilation.


Overview


Lobbies, stairs, lifts and corridors make up the circulation spaces within a building. These elements have a direct relationship with the building’s form, layout and articulation.

Free and easy pedestrian movement should be a principle consideration when designing the building and site. Pedestrian movement should be equitable, providing barrier-free access to internal, external and communal spaces. Safety, amenity and durability should also be key considerations.

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Better Design Practice

Plan the site to optimise accessibility to buildings.
  • Wherever possible, provide clear, direct and safe access throughout the building and the site, including major entries, lobbies, communal outdoor space, parking areas and public streets.​

Provide equitable access to people of all ages and abilities.​

  • Integrate universal design principles at the start of the design process
  • Ensure universal access is provided to main entrances from the street and car parking areas
  • Where there is a level change integrate ramps into the overall building and landscape design
  • For residential uses, maximise the number of accessible and adaptable apartments in a development

​Ensure circulation areas are functional, pleasant and safe.​
  • Provide generous corridor widths and ceiling heights, particularly in lobbies, outside lifts and apartment entry doors
  • Avoid tight corners so as to allow easy movement of furniture
  • Provide appropriate levels of lighting, especially the use of natural daylight
  • Offset apartment entries in a double-loaded corridor to increase privacy
  • Provide adequate ventilation to circulation spaces
  • Incorporate casual surveillance from other areas

Rules of Thumb

  • Ensure compliance with NZS4121 for publically accessible buildings
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