For the first time, the Flemish expertise centre for accessibility, Inter, has awarded its top A++ label for outstanding accessibility to a government building. On 10 July 2024, the InnovOcean Campus, located at Jacobsenstraat 1 in Ostend, received this prestigious recognition. The A++ rating signifies that the building is fully accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities such as wheelchair users, those with hearing or visual impairments, and individuals with autism, without requiring assistance from others. This comprehensive accessibility is reflected in the building’s outdoor spaces, architectural design, and interior finish.
The campus is easy to reach by public transport, bicycle, or car, with step-free access routes and no obstacles like stairs. The entrance features automatic sliding doors instead of revolving doors. For blind visitors, tactile floor guidance leads to the reception desk, which is wheelchair-accessible thanks to a lowered section. The lift is equipped with audio prompts and Braille, while meeting rooms are designed to accommodate everyone comfortably. Auditoriums include hearing loops for those with hearing aids, and smaller rooms have portable sound amplification systems available at reception.
Workspaces are fully accessible and ergonomically designed, separated from coffee areas and informal spaces. Those needing a quiet environment can use sensory-friendly, enclosed workstations. Each floor has a wheelchair-accessible toilet. The building’s design emphasises simplicity and calm, with clear navigation aided by contrasting colours that do not disrupt the tranquil atmosphere.
From the project’s inception in 2018, VLIZ (Flanders Marine Institute) and ILVO (Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food) prioritised accessibility. Experts from Inter were closely involved in translating accessibility requirements into a design based on Universal Design principles. Incorporating accessibility at the earliest planning stages helped reduce costs for the developers.
Following the building’s completion in late 2023, Inter conducted an audit to assess compliance, with input from experts by experience, including wheelchair users, people with hearing or visual impairments, and individuals with autism.
Jan Mees, General Director of VLIZ, commented: “The InnovOcean Campus is an international knowledge hub where people collaborate on scientific research into the sea and the fisheries sector. We host numerous meetings and conferences annually, welcoming European and international groups in the most comfortable conditions. The building’s seamless accessibility enhances our global reputation.”