Webinar: In Sickness and in Health: Lessons from Universal Design in Healthcare

On 19th June 2024, we hosted a webinar with architect Hanna Kickham, who was the guest chair of the 2024 RIAI Universal Design Award subgroup. Hanna presented an online seminar on the significant benefits of incorporating universal design principles into building design. The presentation highlighted the advantages for individuals of all ages and health conditions, illustrated through compelling examples, with a particular focus on the National Rehabilitation Hospital, which won the RIAI Universal Design Award in 2021. 

You can watch the recording of this webinar below. ISL interpretation and captions are included. 

Following this webinar, you should have:

• Enhanced Understanding of Universal Design Principles: Gain in-depth knowledge of universal design principles and their application in building design.
• Awareness of Universal Design Benefits Through Case Studies: Discover the benefits of universal design for building users of all ages and health conditions, demonstrated through examples.
• Knowledge of Practical Tools for Enhancing User-Friendliness: Learn effective, easy-to-implement tools and strategies to improve user-friendliness in any building.

Hanna graduated from University College Dublin in 2000 and joined O’Connell Mahon Architects in March 2010. She brought with her extensive experience in various building types, including educational institutions, commercial retail centres, residential buildings, and public infrastructure projects.

Since joining O’Connell Mahon, Hanna has made significant contributions to major healthcare projects, such as the National Children’s Hospital and the Radiotherapy Treatment Unit at Altnagelvin Hospital. She was responsible for the delivery of the Maryfield Nursing Home in Chapelizod and has worked on several mental health units nationwide.

Hanna played a pivotal role in the development of the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dun Laoghaire in 2021. This project earned the RIAI Universal Design Award in 2021 and received an ‘Honourable Mention’ in the UIA 2023 Friendly and Inclusive Spaces Awards.

Currently, Hanna is working on the delivery of a new outpatient project and Critical Care Wing for the Rotunda Maternity Hospital. Her work on these projects has deepened her expertise in designing healthcare facilities and fostered her keen interest in creating buildings that are adaptable to various needs and inclusive for all users, emphasising universal design principles.