Author(s)

KHADIJA HASSOUNA, REEM SULTAN

Abstract

The built environment should ideally respond to the needs of users from different demographic factors and backgrounds, which is why the design approach of inclusive design is increasingly relevant. One of the different demographic factors includes gender, and creating gender inclusive designs is crucial as historically spaces have been centered around the needs of men. This research investigates inclusivity in commercial spaces for women in Bahrain. A rating system is created based on the theoretical background and the needs of women in Bahrain, considering four main parameters. The rating system is then used to evaluate the inclusivity of commercial spaces in Bahrain, through applying it on Segafredo Café located in Riffa, Bahrain as a local case study. The case study received a rating of 73.3% indicating good performance in its inclusivity for women. While the café was suitable overall in terms of spatial layout, circulation, and furniture, the main criteria that were lacking were in the provision of facilities that cater towards specific groups, such as women with infants, pregnant women, etc.

Keywords

inclusive design, rating system, commercial spaces, Bahrain