Cafés
Communal Table Accessible Layout for Cafés
Review the complete journey from arrival to use and exit. Check what people need to see, reach, turn around or operate.
Explore the ideas
Walkthrough checklist
- Walk the route from the actual building approach, including thresholds, doors and level changes.
- Identify functions that need an approachable position and reachable controls, and check them with users.
- Check furniture, contrast and signage against applicable accessibility requirements with the project professional.
Worked example
A grandparent joins family meals but the usual dining chairs leave little room to approach the table comfortably.
Test an approach position with the guest and their mobility needs, including chair movement and nearby route. Have the project professional confirm relevant dimensions against applicable local requirements.
How to test it
Repeat the walkthrough after furniture is placed and verify the finished design against the applicable local standards.
Apply it to this space
- Layout
- Place the table in a central but nonblocking position with smaller tables available nearby.
- Detail
- Provide accessible power at table ends and a hard-wearing top with rounded corners.
- Trade-off
- A large shared table is efficient but less comfortable for private conversation.
- Try solo, pair, and group seating
- Check that power cords do not cross walking paths
The Elixir portfolio
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