The seventh international Universal Design conference took place in Oslo, Norway, and I had the privilege of both presenting and attending. The opening address highlighted that "Universal Design is considered a prerequisite for achieving universal human rights, social and economic sustainability." This rights-based approach underscored the obligations of countries that are signatories to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which New Zealand signed in 2008.

Presenters shared their research and expertise, illustrating that Universal Design is intertwined with human rights, regulatory and technical expertise, and values-based decision-making. I had the opportunity to discuss the Lifemark story and our collaboration with top architects, designers, and development teams to achieve exceptional results. Our success is partly due to our voluntary approach to Universal Design, attracting those who understand the importance of inclusion and make decisions that benefit both current and future generations.

While some regions rely on regulation to implement Universal Design, it is evident that going above and beyond these standards is crucial for building excellence. Valuing diversity is essential to creating more usable and high-functioning spaces and places.

Here is a link to the conference compendium, published in an open-access format, which I hope you find enjoyable for summer reading. I would also like to extend my gratitude to the organisers, particularly the Norwegian Directorate for Children, Youth and Family Affairs (Bufdir), for hosting this remarkable forum of thought leadership.

Geoff Penrose
General Manager, Lifemark Ltd