DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR PUBLIC SEATING IN OPEN SPACES BASED ON UNIVERSAL DESIGN PRINCIPLES FOR EVERYONE

Abstract

This research aims to study design guidelines for public seating in open spaces based on universal design principles for everyone. This research aims to: 1) to study problem of using public seating in open spaces 2) to analyze and evaluate the physical environment of public seating based on universal design principles for everyone and 3) to suggest the design guidelines for public seating in open spaces based on universal design principles for everyone. The researcher studied the problem and analyzed the data from theoretical information and made questionnaire of using public seating. The sample group was 50 who were elderly, general public and a group of people with disability who used public park in Tak province and Kamphaeng Phet province. The research used 5 rating scale and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, there were percentage, mean scores, standard deviation.

          The result of this research aims found that the public seating furniture was placed in public spaces to support various activities. From sample group who said the problem of public seating was designed by average man that ignored physical decline or a group of people with disability. The public seating became difficult to use or be accidents. The researcher designed public seating in open spaces based on universal design principles for everyone. There were three design drafts, that analyzed by analytic hierarchy process. The third model was high scores of appropriateness. The result of this research found that the satisfaction of the sample group for public seating in open spaces based on universal design principles for everyone was high scores of the third model. The mean score was 4.37 of shape and using. The second model, The design prioritizes durable materials suited to environmental conditions. Artificial wood is selected for the seating surface, while fiberglass is used for the structural frame — a material known for its high strength and versatility in forming complex shapes. This combination gives the seat a distinctive, contemporary, and visually striking appearance. the researcher studied and designed the furniture that achieved goals and objectives. It also raised the standard of living for all groups and the furniture can use in public spaces safety, comfortable and benefit for everyone.