Access for All

Safe and reliable mobility is one of the primary challenges facing cities today. In industrialized countries, ageing societies mean that growing numbers of people are finding it more difficult to move around because of physical barriers, inadequate signposting and a general lack of attention to accessibility in planning and design. The obstacles once experienced by "disabled" people are now recognized as problems that will affect almost everyone at some point in their lifetime.

"Access for All" is a design philosophy that envisions a built environment designed with the specific and changing needs of all its inhabitants in mind, irrespective of their age, status and physical capabilities. It goes far beyond "bolt-on" measures such improvised ramps and parking spaces reserved for special-needs drivers, and instead recognizes the urban landscape as a diverse environment where everyone – children, young people, parents, workers, the elderly and people with special needs – is able to move around freely and to share and enjoy public spaces.

The Schindler Award emphasizes the special needs of disabled people because they reflect shortcomings in urban design and because an urban environment that answers the needs of the disabled will come closest to answering those of everyone else.

The vast majority of people spend years, if not lifetimes, in a single urban environment. This is especially the case for children, people with disabilities and the elderly, whose freedom of movement may be considerably restricted. For them "Access for All" means having immediate surroundings that are secure, aesthetically pleasing and stimulating to the senses, with essential amenities and facilities close by.