State of Art and Perspectives of Universal Design: The Libyan Approach.

Abstract

Through this paper, we have highlighted the importance of a Universal Design orientation within the architectural community in Libya; it attempts to shed light on some of the different initiatives, experiences, applications, and projects in the field of accessibility and Universal Design to provide a hospitable urban environment that can accommodate all segments of Libyan society. The paper discusses the difficulties of architectural integration and the need for comprehensive education, training, and proof of concept applications by reviewing some inspiring projects undertaken in Libya to encounter this issue. The paper concludes by looking forward to practicing the design orientation for all in Libya by discussing the opportunities available after the tremendous political and economic change in Libya post-2011 and the need for reconstruction programs that adopt the Universal Design doctrine on suspended and future urban projects, furthermore the need to establish a national strategy, and law binding commitment in this context.