WBDG design objectives are all significantly important: accessible, aesthetics, cost-effective, functional/operational, historic preservation, productive, secure/safe, and sustainable. Their interrelationships must be understood, evaluated, and appropriately applied to a project to create a high-performance building. Yet each is just one aspect of a truly successful project, in which project goals are identified early in the process and the interdependencies of all building systems and materials are coordinated, from the planning and programming phase through operations and maintenance. Each design objective is presented in the context of the others throughout the WBDG website.
Accessible
Pertains to building elements, heights and clearances implemented to address the specific needs of disabled people.
Related topics:
- Provide Equal Access and Flexibility
- Best Practices for Accessibility Compliance
- Accessibility Standards and Guidelines
- Beyond Accessibility to Universal Design
- Universal Design and Health
Related Resource Pages:
Aesthetics
Pertains to the physical appearance and image of building elements and spaces as well as the integrated design process.
Related topics:
- Understanding the Language and Elements of Design
- Engage the Integrated Design Process
- Design Awards
Related Resource Pages:
Cost-Effective
Pertains to selecting building elements on the basis of life-cycle costs (weighing options during concepts, design development, and value engineering) as well as basic cost estimating and budget control.
Related topics:
- Utilize Cost and Value Engineering Throughout the Project Life Cycle
- Use Economic Analysis to Evaluate Design Alternatives
- Consider Non-Quantifiable Benefits
Related Resource Pages:
Functional / Operational
Pertains to functional programming—spatial needs and requirements, system performance as well as durability and efficient maintenance of building elements.
Related topics:
- Account for Functional Needs
- Ensure Appropriate Product/Systems Integration
- Meet Performance Objectives
Historic Preservation
Pertains to specific actions within a historic district or affecting a historic building whereby building elements and strategies are classifiable into one of the four approaches: preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, or reconstruction.
Related topics:
- Apply the Preservation Process Successfully
- Update Building Systems Appropriately
- Accommodate Life Safety and Security Needs
- Provide Accessibility for Historic Buildings
- Sustainable Historic Preservation
- Facility Use Policies, Building Design Standards, and Custodial Guidelines for Historic Properties
- Historic Preservation—Additional Resources
Related Resource Pages:
Productive
Pertains to occupants' well-being—physical and psychological comfort—including building elements such as air distribution, lighting, workspaces, systems, and technology.
Related topics:
- Integrate Technological Tools
- Assure Reliable Systems and Spaces
- Design for the Changing Workplace
- Promote Health and Well-Being
- Provide Comfortable Environments
Secure / Safe
Pertains to the physical protection of occupants and assets from man-made and natural hazards.
Related topics:
- Fire Protection
- Occupant Safety and Health
- Natural Hazards Mitigation
- Security for Building Occupants and Assets
Sustainable
Pertains to environmental performance of building elements and strategies.
Related topics:
