RIBA CPD Showcase

Inclusive flooring design and specification

The colour, texture and contrast of our surroundings can have either a disproportionately positive or negative effect on us all, but this is often amplified among those with sensory or other impairments. The following CPD materials address this issue head-on and offer a range of inspirational solutions. Most CPD materials are available online, but this is not always shown here so, if a seminar is of interest to you, click on the link and check.
Seminar, by Shaw Contract
Discusses the important role colour and contrast plays in inclusive design, and key aesthetic and practical considerations when specifying workplace flooring. Also covers: relevant regulations and standards; the use of LRV and specification guidelines; colour and contrast strategies for flooring design; and, modular flooring systems as workplace flooring solutions.

Shaw Contract is an innovation and design leader in the flooring industry, with 60 years’ experience.
Seminar, by danfloor UK Ltd
Explores the impact of interior design on people on the autistic spectrum. Discusses the sensitivities experienced by those living with autistism, and explores how internal spaces can affect the way they relate to people and their environment.

Danfloor UK is a specialist manufacturer of impervious and non-impervious broadloom carpet and carpet tiles. Contemporary, hardwearing and stylish, Danfloor’s carpet ranges are suited to the healthcare, education, commercial and leisure industries.

Duration: 35-40 minutes, plus Q&A
Online Learning, by Altro
Around 35% of the UK population is thought to be neurodiverse, meaning that their brains function, learn and process information differently. This seminar outlines what neurodiversity is and demonstrates the importance of designing spaces that take into consideration the needs of people who are neurodiverse. It also details relevant legislation, standards and guidance.

Altro produces high-quality flooring products and wall claddings for a variety of sectors. Its extensive portfolio includes hard-wearing and hygienic products that are ideal for commercial kitchens, as well as easy-to-apply safety solutions for transport.

Duration: one hour, plus Q&A
Discusses key considerations when designing flooring for environments where vulnerable people are present, including the visually impaired, patients with dementia and the elderly. Topics covered include how to reduce the risk of slipping, the Disability Discrimination Act, colour contrast and light reflectance values, and maintenance and cleaning.

Karndean views flooring differently. It travels the globe seeking out expressive and intriguing forms, and uses them to influence its own unique style. By combining originality with cutting-edge design, Karndean creates simple, beautiful floors that bring your vision to life.

Duration: 1½ hours, plus Q&A
Provides up-to-date and evidence-backed information on how to correctly design dementia-inclusive environments. Explores the effects and challenges of dementia when designing facilities and outlines best practice guidance – with a particular focus on flooring. Aimed at professionals specifying floor coverings for commercial and public buildings and anyone who has an interest in inclusive design.

Forbo Flooring Systems is a global producer of world-class flooring solutions, constantly striving to produce sustainable flooring systems that create better environments. Forbo has a comprehensive product offering for commercial, public sector and residential interiors, including its long established market leading linoleum, project vinyl and residential collections.

Duration: one hour, plus Q&A
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