Contents ----------------- Preface ----------------- Introduction 1.1 Background 1.2 The Development of “Universal Accessibility” 1.3 Objectives 1.4 Study Methods and Framework ----------------- Universal Accessibility in the Built Environment 2.1 The Challenge in Hong Kong 2.2 Aging Population 2.3 Universal Accessibility in External Areas, Open Spaces and Green Spaces 2.4 Major Issues 2.5 The Way Forward ----------------- Best Practices and Guidelines 3.1 Access Route 3.2 Connectivity and Interfacing Elements 3.3 Landscaped Spaces 3.4 Furniture, Equipment and Fittings 3.5 Way Finding, Orientation and Signage 3.6 Detectable Surfaces 3.7 Colour and Luminous Contrast 3.8 Lighting 3.9 Safety 3.10 Management and Maintenance ----------------- Photo Gallery 4.1 Access Route 4.2 Connectivity and Interfacing Elements 4.3 Landscaped Spaces 4.4 Furniture, Equipment and Fittings 4.5 Way Finding, Orientation and Signage 4.6 Detectable Surfaces 4.7 Colour and Luminous Contrast 4.8 Lighting ----------------- Appendices A1 Case Study 1 - Rehabilitation Complex in Wong Chuk Hang A2 Case Study 2 - An External Public Space in Ma On Shan ----------------- Acknowledgements ----------------- References ----------------- View or Download PDF

3. Best Practices and Guidelines     3.1 Access Route 3.2 Connectivity and Interfacing Elements 3.3 Landscaped Spaces 3.3.1 Introduction 3.3.2 Physiological Aspect 3.3.3 Psychological Aspect     3.3.4 Social Aspect   3.3.4.1 Multi-functional Use of Open Spaces     3.3.5 Economical Aspect 3.3.6 Design Considerations for Landscaped Spaces 3.3.7 Sensory Gardens 3.4 Furniture, Equipment and Fittings     3.5 Way Finding, Orientation and Signage 3.6 Detectable Surfaces 3.7 Colour and Luminous Contrast 3.8 Lighting 3.9 Safety 3.10 Management and Maintenance 3.3.4 Social Aspect     3.3.4.1 Multi-functional Use of Open Spaces     In many cities, communal external areas serve as multifunctional venues, for either formal or spontaneous use during different times of the day throughout the year. It is important that such facilities are safe and accessible to the widest spectrum of users.   External public spaces are integral to communal activities and street life. They form outdoor meeting points; morning exercise venues; family outing destinations; neighbourhood mingling spots; school picnic grounds; open arenas for informal cultural/religious events, sitting-out areas, etc. (3.3.4.1a, 3.3.4.1b, and 3.3.4.1c). Social needs vary amongst different people due to factors such as age, gender, culture, as well as physical, mental and economic abilities of individuals.         3.3.4.1a  External public spaces are integral to city life                   3.3.4.1b  Safe and accessible open spaces in the neighbourhood are important to the elderly                   3.3.4.1c  Accessible open spaces can serve as important places for social integration