An Investigation of KTO Karatay University Central Campus According to Accessibility and Universal Design Principles

Abstract

University campuses are urban spaces that have the quality of public space. Universities, which are urban in many respects, need to provide suitable and comfortable spaces for users. In order for universities, which are the centers of education and research, to raise awareness about universal design among their users, it is extremely important to make the campus in accordance with universal design principles. Having the function of a research center and socio-cultural space in addition to its education and training function makes university campuses open to use by users from different regions depending on flexible usage periods. University campuses should comply with universal design principles that encompass all user typologies. This study aims to emphasize the importance of designing campuses in line with universal design principles. In this direction, the central campus of KTO Karatay University, which received the 2023 spatial accessibility award (orange flag), was determined as the sample area. There is no specific limit to the wide scope of universal design. Therefore, a set of criteria was created to evaluate the sample area in line with a certain scope. According to the criteria set, the building entrances providing access to the campus area of KTO Karatay University central campus, the transition area within the building providing access to the campus open area and the campus open area were examined. The identified areas were observed, experienced and photographed. It has been determined that the entrance areas, transition zones and open spaces of the campus are partially sufficient in line with universal design principles. As a result, there are barrier-free areas provided by the university. However, for a holistic, inclusive and universal design, the campus area should be fully accessible.