Seven key findings from Heritage for All
Heritage buildings hold immense cultural value, but making them accessible to all Canadians, regardless of physical ability, is key. The Heritage for All project, funded by Accessibility Standards Canada, a three-year initiative led by Human Space, the inclusive design practice at BDP Quadrangle, sought to address the tension between preserving these iconic buildings and making them accessible to everyone. Here are the top findings from this ground breaking research.
1. People with disabilities value heritage but face significant barriers
While people with disabilities visit heritage sites at nearly the same rate as the general population (46% vs. 48%), they encounter physical and operational barriers that limit full participation. Over 71% of respondents with disabilities reported dissatisfaction with access to public buildings, with many citing a lack of accessible paths of travel and reliance on others for assistance.
Image below: The R.V. Winch Building in British Columbia is considered as a heritage building due to its historical significance, as well as its architectural and environmental value.
2. Conservation and accessibility are not mutually exclusive
Accessibility and conservation goals can and should coexist. Both people with disabilities and heritage professionals agreed that balanced interventions are crucial. Creative, context-sensitive solutions that preserve heritage elements while providing access were highlighted as essential to success.
Left image: Postal Station A is a Beaux-Arts building with symmetrical door openings connecting to a city sidewalk. The left (north) doors were lowered to sidewalk level and a new transom window inserted above.
Right image: The lowered door leads into a vestibule and lower landing which provides access to a curved stair on one side and a ramp on the other.
3. Successful accessibility solutions are creative and bespoke
The most effective solutions employ creative approaches, such as concealed lifts and integrated ramps. These interventions preserve the visual and historical integrity of heritage sites while enhancing access for people with disabilities. Every building is unique, and flexibility in design and implementation is key.
Upper left image: The centre block of Osgoode Hall is rigorously symmetrical, and its sloped paths were given a similar treatment. Their lack of handrails preserves views of the heritage building.
Upper right image: The landing extension and sloped paths are surfaced with dark stone/tile that contrasts with the original sandstone. The paths are offset from the building and connect to sidewalks at the lower ends.
Lower left image: The raised landing meets flush with the entrance. Glass ground panels on each side reveal the former height of the landing.
4. Inclusive design must prioritise equity and dignity
One of the most significant findings was the need for equitable access, enabling people with disabilities to enjoy heritage sites with dignity. Solutions such as shared entrances for all visitors, rather than secondary accessible routes, create a more inclusive experience and uphold a sense of belonging.
Left image: The Victoria Memorial Museum Building was rehabilitated between 2001-10, including the addition of a prism-like lantern above the entrance.
Right image: Inside, a section of stairs was removed, and a single-storey elevator inserted to provide step-free access to the main level.
5. Engagement with the disability community is crucial
Following the principle of 'nothing about us without us', the project underscored the importance of engaging people with disabilities during the design and implementation of accessibility solutions. Their input shaped many of the project’s recommendations, incorporating solutions that addressed real-world needs and were practical for long-term use.
Image below: AccessNow event that provides a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our collective journey towards a more inclusive Canada.
6. Virtual and multi-sensory access are valuable alternatives
When physical modifications may significantly remove a heritage attribute or where modification is technically infeasible, virtual access and multi-sensory experiences can provide alternative solutions to interpret a space. These can include tactile models, audio guides, and virtual tours that enhance the heritage experience for people with different abilities.
7. The need for clear accessibility guidelines in heritage settings
The project concluded with a call for updated accessibility standards tailored to the unique challenges of heritage buildings. Heritage properties should have detailed accessibility plans, phased implementations, and engage regularly with accessibility experts and end-users to activate ongoing improvements.
Image below: The Cavalier Building, Halifax, Nova Scotia is a treasured multi-storey structure that honours the legacy of Canada's troops on the battlefield.
These findings serve as a reminder that Canada's federal heritage buildings must evolve to reflect the values of equity and inclusion. By adopting these principles, we can preserve these iconic spaces for all Canadians to enjoy, regardless of ability.