Regulations

In interior design it is essential to learn different codes and regulations to make a build and interior safe for the people who will occupy it. Programs like American with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other agencies help accomplish this. Building codes help regulate standards that establish requirements for the design and construction fo the building. One process that helps make these regulations easier are the different phases of design planning such as schematic design, and space planning. 

 One of the first steps in a design process is the programming and schematic steps. The programming steps consist of meeting with the client and developing what the needs and how it will fit into the space. This process also consist of case studies and occupancy type is also determined. 

The second step is call schematic design. This process consists of providing the client with design solutions for the space. During this step multiple plans are presented as well as an egress plan and calculations of the maximum travel distance from the exits.

Another part of the design process is the design development. This includes selecting all finishes and materials used in the project. The designer also takes into considerations partition types and the hour rating of each of the walls used. During this step the designer also picks out the window, door, and glass finishes for the products.

The next step is the construction documents. This step is important because this step helps communicate the designers design to the people building the projects. The reason for construction documents is to make sure the project contains all applicable codes for the building design. 

The next step is connected to the construction and its called the construction administration. This step is where the designers visit the construction site to make sure the plan is going well and everything is being built according to the construction documents. The final step is called the post occupancy evaluation. This step is conducted after the occupants move in because as designers they want to know how comfortable and productive their design was for the people using the space. 

Different building codes are put in place to ensure the safety of everyone in the space. Some codes include; means of egress, compartmentalization, fire separation, detection, suppression and, smoke removal and control. Compartmentalization is the process of sectioning of spaces in the building that are closed off during an emergency. Detection are smoke detectors and fire alarms that help alert occupants in case of an emergency. 

ADA is known as American Disabilities Act. This Act helps ensure that building occupants are looked after and cared for. Some interior spaces this act effects are; complaint routes, ramps, projections, restrooms, doors, elevators, signage, and seating. 

According to ADA regulations doors must be 36" which provides a 32" opening through a doorway. Restrooms must be wheelchair accessible for all utilities in a bathroom such as toilets, showers, and sinks. Signage is another important component of interior design. These are signs that can help the blind, disabled, and everyone find which specific room they are looking for and what the rooms purpose is. 

Building Analysis:

I chose to analysis the the Lindner Fitness center at Judson and found out that there are no ramps or elevators leading to the second floor of the building. Considering the building is a place where athletes who are often injured gather, I found this surprising. I looked at the bathrooms and they all seemed ADA approved with a large handicapped stall and open areas under the sink for wheel chairs. Other than the lack of transportation for the disabled to the second floor the building meets all requirements. One thing I would change about the building is adding an elevator leading to the second floor. I believe a ramp is not possible due to the height of the first floor, however, adding an elevator would be incredibly beneficial for injured athletes and disabled people.