Accessible Solutions

Designing a Barrier-Free Bermuda

Our Commitment

Accessible Solutions from OBMI brings together our team of experienced architects, interior and landscape designers, who are focused on creating improved accessibility for those who live, work and visit Bermuda.

Our efforts have been recognized by the Ministry of Health, and have been awarded the Built Environment Access Award, presented to organizations working towards a more accessible Bermuda.

OBMI was also the recipient of the Bermuda Building Design Awards for designing a fully accessible home and in-house physical therapy room for a paraplegic client.

Over the past three decades, we have designed and delivered accessibility solutions within several large corporations including BELCO, American International Group, and Bacardi International.

Our Experience

In the early ’90s, designers currently with OBMI were responsible for Windreach Centre for the Challenged. The 4-acre facility located in Warwick, features a multi-purpose Activity Centre, Animal Zone, Therapeutic Riding Centre, and a fully-accessible playground. Soon after, they designed an entirely accessible home for Windreach found Alexander ‘Sandy’ Mitchell, who had cerebral palsy.

In 2007 OBMI became the Architects of Record for the Lamb Foggo Urgent Care Center, and in 2010 OBMI was named Architects of Record for the KEMH.

In late 2010 we launched Solutions for Seniors, a program dedicated to designing accessible private homes for seniors and those with special needs.

In 2016 OBMI was selected as the local partner working alongside the architects of record, Scott Associates, together with Bermuda Skyport and Aecon in creating a unique, innovative, and accessible travel experience for all those who enter its doors.

With the launch of Accessible Solutions, our client portfolio now encompasses Airbnb properties, corporate and private entities, as well as the retail and service industry. Most recently, we added enhanced accessibility to the new Mailboxes location at Rosebank Centre.

Our Services

Accessible Solutions focuses on four categories:

• Wheelchair users

• The mobility impaired

• The visually impaired

• The hearing impaired

Accessible Solutions services can be extensive or minor upgrades, depending on the needs of the client, the type of business, and the available budget. Upgrade options include:

• Wheelchair accessible offices, retail stores and restaurants

• Airbnb property enhancements to support the needs of guests with physical challenges

• Automatic door openers

• Exterior and interior ramps for commercial & residential use

• Sturdy handrails within stairwells

• Wheelchair accessible restrooms

• Exterior sensor lighting

• And much more…

With every project, OBMI will provide complete project administration services. This consists of securing the best local contractors and sourcing the most appropriate products based on the design and budget. Our team will work on your behalf to attain the necessary permits and approvals from the Planning Department and Fire Department. OBMI will also ensure all upgrades are in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Ministry of Health guidelines and recommendations.