Abstract
Disability is not a unique condition, yet the built environment is designed mostly by the able bodied for the able bodied. Lack of understanding for the conditions of disabilities result in minimum provision of only physically accessible spaces, if any at all. However accessibility its not just about removing physical barriers, it is about intelligent design to enable the space, be it on an urban scale or the private individual homes, to be used by anyone of any disability. As a formal approach, Universal Design was incepted to provide guiding principles for one to follow when designing a space for people of all range of abilities; from pregnant mothers to young children to persons with disabilities. It is the design and composition of an environment so that it can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people regardless of their age, size, ability or disability. Developed countries such as the USA and Japan are often known for their established approach to designing for persons with disabilities, championing good design in all types of public spaces. However, little is known about developing countries where the need for improvement of the built environment is great. Unfortunately with other issues at hand such as the basic need of feeding its people, needs of persons with disabilities are often overlooked. Due to the complexities of issues faced by developing countries, the approach must change to suit their unique economic, political and social climate. As such, this paper will focus on Indonesia as a case study to uncover the ongoing efforts and challenges faced to provide accessibility to their citizens with disabilities, with a focus on visual impairment. The research methodology employed will be a combination of literature reviews of existing research and schools of thought, interviews with caregivers and persons with disabilities both locally and in Indonesia, and analysis of built projects designed for disabilities. The environmental condition Bandung will be mapped and studied to uncover potential sites for intervention.