ABSTRACT

This article is focused on the evaluation of the implementation of elements of universal design in architectural design studio works in the Faculty of Architecture and Design at Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava (FAD-STU), Slovakia. The aim of the research is to assess the effectiveness of the transfer of theoretical
knowledge from the compulsory subject Universal Design to the design studios, which represent the practical part of architectural education. Selected outputs of the design studios are compared with selected diploma theses - the capstone project in the FAD-STU. The research is based on the hypothesis that students develop, acquire and consolidate their knowledge attained in the subject Universal Design during their studies in the FAD-STU. It is, therefore, assumed that the outputs of their diploma theses will also be of higher quality in terms of the application of universal design than works from previous design studios. A summary of the findings regarding the aspects of universal design that have been successfully implemented into the design studios are followed by a set of recommended measures to improve the current situation.