Designing for non-normative bodies: People with learning disability

Kasem, Menatalla ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0001-7650-661X, Clark, Sam ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4597-5162 and Sakellariou, Dikaios ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2668-2834 2023. Designing for non-normative bodies: People with learning disability. Presented at: The Architectures of Alterity: Body, Media and Space, The Welsh School of Architecture, Cardiff University, 7-8 September 2023.

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Abstract

Architecture has traditionally focused on designing for normative bodies, inadvertently excluding individuals with diverse abilities. The social model of disability emphasizes that the built environment is a key factor in disabling people, underscoring the importance for architects to create inclusive environments. However, the needs of people with learning disabilities are often overlooked or misunderstood, as architectural design predominantly addresses physical impairments rather than hidden disabilities. This study aims to address this gap by understanding the accessibility needs of people with learning disabilities from two distinct perspectives. Firstly, a clinical perspective will be explored through literature, analysing the clinical implications of learning disabilities to inform design considerations. Secondly, the study will incorporate the perspectives of individuals with learning disabilities themselves through interviews, ensuring their voices are included in architectural research. Through a two-phase participatory study, employing semi-structured interviews and walking interviews to actively engage people with learning disabilities as participants. By actively involving people with learning disabilities in the research process, this study aims to provide valuable insights into their accessibility needs, ultimately informing the design considerations necessary for creating inclusive spaces for them.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Other)
Status:	Published
Schools:	Architecture
Subjects:	N Fine Arts > NA Architecture
Last Modified:	09 Apr 2024 10:00
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/167104

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