Blog
‘Misc’ Category
Commercial Facilities vs Public Accommodations & the ADA – What are they & why do I care?
Janis Kent, Architect, CASp © April, 2025 One of the items under the ADA which people tend to overlook is Commercial Facilities. When referenced under the ADA, generally Title III is referred to as Public Accommodations and Commercial Facilities, which then just gets shortened to places of Public Accommodation. But there are important differences between […]
Bathing Showers vs Rinsing Showers
Rinsing showers differ from bathing showers under ADA Standards. DOJ clarifies they don’t need to meet bathing shower requirements, offering alternative compliance.
Psychology of Space – and why is this important
When providing spaces in architecture and the outdoors, for the most part, we are problem-solving, whether it is about budgets and programming, or codes and access.
California Tow-Away Signs
Navigating the nuances of the California Building Code regarding tow-away signs requires a keen eye for both historical precedents and current statutes to ensure full compliance.
Regulations, Statutes, & Codes – in Terms of Access
Explore the nuances of ADA and access codes with Janis Kent, Architect. Gain clarity on differences, implementations, and how federal and state regulations interact.
The Elderly – Toilets & Grab Bars – Some Thoughts
The requirements in the ADA Standards apply to toilets and grab bars used by people for independent use and include medical and long-term care facilities. But in housing that supports seniors such as in nursing facilities and assisted living residential communities, there is also the necessity to provide for assisted-use for toileting needs.
Braille – An Overview for ‘High-Vision’ People & Others
Braille was originally developed by Charles Barbier, who was interested in alternate writing forms. Some thought it was a code he created that could be used by the army at night.
Service, Support, & Assistive Animals – and California
There has long been discussion about the differences between Service Animals per the ADA Standards and Support Animals per FHA or even Service Animals under the Air Carrier Access Act. But in California, we like to be different.
Protruding Objects – on a lighter note
I received an email today from someone at an Administrative Authority enquiring as to my opinion on protruding objects. Apparently they are reviewing a new construction project where the wall sconces are installed at less than 80″ above the finished floor, which is fine, but they project into the hallway more than 4″ which is not fine.
Pop-Up Restaurants and What You Need to Know About Access
Janis Kent, Architect, FAIA, CASp © September, 2020 With the continuation of our on-going plague, many restaurants are taking their seating area out to the public sidewalks, parking areas, and even onto the streets. While the concept of pop-up restaurants has been around for a while, it has evolved as a temporary outdoor add-on to existing […]