Introduction: Universal design is a method of designing buildings that, at little or no additional cost, allows the building to be used by the widest possible population, regardless of their limitations. An accessible facility is key to engaging in leisure activities. Shopping centers play an important role in spending free time, providing entertainment, social and cultural activities in addition to shopping. Quality leisure activities are key to a balanced life. As occupational therapists, we have the knowledge to identify and remove obstacles in the environment. Incorporating skills of occupational therapists into the design of the facility will make it accessible to people with physical disabilities. Purpose: The purpose of this work is to analyze the accessibility of the building used by the public, taking into account the current legislation in the field of accessibility, recommendations and evaluation of the actual situation: BTC, Dvorana A. By identifying deviations from the current legislation, we have given possible proposals for the design of individual elements of the building. BTC, Dvorana A: external ramp, parking lot, dressing room and restrooms. Methods of work: The accessibility of the BTC facility, Dvorana A, was evaluated using the universal planning methodology, which includes six steps. Using the draft accessibility assessment tool, we evaluated the current condition of the BTC facility, Dvorana A, and identified the deviations. Based on the results, we created new designs of four elements. Results: Dvorana A does not meet all regulatory requirements and universal design recommendations. The least accessible are the restrooms, two of three are non-functional. In addition to the architectural discrepancies, there is also a lack of universally accessible information. The six-step universal design suggestions include both physical and informational adaptations: expansion of spaces and elements, installation of information panels, and contrasting bands. Discussion and conclusion: Universal design of buildings is required by law for all new buildings and renovations by the Building Act and the Regulations on Universal Construction. In Slovenia, as in Europe, older buildings, of which there are still many, are problematic when it comes to ensuring universal accessibility. There is also insufficient planning of the construction of facilities according to the principle of cooperative planning, which means that a wider circle of experts and the users themselves are not involved in the planning. Occupational therapy has the knowledge and evaluation methods to create an accessible environment that enables physically disabled people to participate independently in leisure activities. Participation in leisure activities has a positive impact on health, well-being, and quality of life.
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