MADELEINE GRANLAND
Inclusive Designer and Researcher
Inclusive Design is…
A way of designing that focuses on creating environments, products, events and policies that meet a diverse range of needs.
Inclusive design (sometimes referred to as universal design or design for all) takes into consideration different physical, cognitive, and sensory profiles alongside designing for gender, faith, culture, age and different socio-economic status. Acknowledging a diverse group of users is the first step towards inclusive design practice, the second is engaging with those users to better understand their perspectives.
That’s a great concept, but how does it tangibly work...
In the built environment, this generally relates to the psychology of safety and enjoyment. Imagine if we designed playgrounds for people of all ages rather than just children, or designed every hospital room to have a view of nature, or designed social housing with care and consideration to reduce stigma. Inclusive design seeks to not only remove the barriers to access of spaces, but also understand the experience and enjoyment for everyone within the built environment.
Beyond architecture, inclusive design includes initiative such as sensory mapping, the sunflower lanyard, and art that can be experienced through touch, sound or vibrations.