Designing for accessibility: How metal edging can improve urban spaces for all

Creating inclusive and accessible urban spaces is more important than ever. Thoughtful design considers the needs of everyone, including those with disabilities, mobility challenges, or visual impairments. 

While often overlooked, the choice of edging plays a crucial role in enhancing accessibility and safety in our towns and cities. At Kinley, we believe that well-designed metal edging can significantly contribute to creating urban environments that are welcoming and navigable for all.

The importance of accessible urban design

Accessible design goes beyond simply meeting minimum requirements. It's about creating spaces that are usable, safe, and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their abilities. This includes:

• People with mobility impairments: Smooth, even surfaces and clear pathways are essential for wheelchair users, people with walkers, and those who have difficulty with balance.
• Visually impaired individuals: Tactile cues, clear boundaries, and well-defined edges help those with visual impairments navigate safely and independently.
• Older adults: As we age, mobility and vision can decline. Accessible design features support older adults in maintaining their independence and quality of life.
• Families with young children: Safe and accessible spaces allow children to explore and play without unnecessary hazards.

How metal edging contributes to accessibility

Metal edging, like Kinley's range of professional edging products, offers several benefits that contribute to more accessible urban spaces:

• Clear definition of pathways: Metal edging provides a crisp, clean boundary between different surfaces, such as paths and planting beds. This is particularly helpful for visually impaired individuals, as it creates a tactile cue that can be detected with a cane.
• Durable and even surfaces: By containing gravel, mulch, and other loose materials, metal edging helps maintain smooth, even surfaces that are easy to navigate for people with mobility devices. Kinley's durable metal edging solutions withstand tough challenges, ensuring a long-lasting and seamless finish.
• Prevention of trip hazards: Metal edging prevents the encroachment of grass, soil, or other materials onto pathways, reducing the risk of trips and falls. This is especially important for those with mobility challenges or visual impairments.
• Safe play areas: In play areas, Kinley's metal edging can be used to create safe and defined spaces around wet-pour rubber crumb surfacing, a popular choice for its safety and environmental benefits.
• Versatile applications: Whether it's footpaths, driveways, roof gardens, or courtyards, metal edging can be adapted to various urban environments, providing consistent accessibility benefits across different settings.

Kinley: Your partner in accessible urban design

At Kinley, we are committed to providing high-quality metal edging solutions that enhance the accessibility and aesthetics of urban spaces. Our products are:

• Durable and long-lasting: Made from premium materials, our edging solutions are designed to withstand the elements and provide years of reliable performance.
• Easy to install: Kinley's metal edging is designed for quick and easy installation, reducing labour costs and minimising disruption to the surrounding environment. Its strength, flexibility, durability and lightness contribute to simple, easy installation and minimal maintenance, eliminating the time-consuming base preparation associated with traditional edging.
• Visually appealing: With a sleek and modern design, our metal edging adds a touch of elegance to any urban landscape. The Corten steel edging, with its rounded edges, offers a rustic yet beautiful look, as praised by our customers.
• Versatile and adaptable: Our range of edging solutions can be customised to meet the specific needs of any project, from small residential gardens to large-scale public spaces. The flexibility in the aluminium allows for more aesthetically pleasing layouts.

Metal edging from Kinley

By choosing Kinley metal edging, you're not just enhancing the aesthetics of your urban spaces; you're also contributing to a more inclusive and accessible environment for everyone.

Contact us today to learn more about our products and how they can help you create urban spaces that are truly welcoming to all.