Offices
Open Workstations Accessible Layout for Offices
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
Imagine a home worker who uses a mobility aid and needs to reach desk controls, printer and files without repeatedly asking for help.
Map the approach and turning sequence with the user's aid and actual equipment. Place high-use controls and supplies within their comfortable reach, then have an appropriate professional review any accessibility 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
- Arrange desk rows with a distinct aisle and keep high-traffic routes behind, rather than between, seated workers.
- Detail
- Use modest-height screens and task lights so people can tune their own work area without darkening the room.
- Trade-off
- More desk density reduces spare space for informal collaboration.
- Mock up chair pullback and aisle width
- Check screen glare at seated eye level
The Elixir portfolio
Details worth a closer look
