ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on basic data which are needed for the design of most types of buildings. Each case must be carefully considered with all classes of users, particularly people with different disabilities, in mind buildings must be the size of the people using them. Buildings and the services and plant therein need constant maintenance. Something frequently forgotten is the need for easy access to certain areas. The principal disabilities of concern to the architect are those that mean the person has to use a wheelchair for most or all of the time. Users fall into two broad groups: those who have some use of both legs and feet, and those who have use of only one leg. The former can usually negotiate most obstacles such as steps and staircases. However, those who can use only one leg require a handhold wherever there are steps, even a single step at a building threshold.
