As you can probably tell from the title, I am passionate about inclusive home design!
In my work as an architect I’ve always been aware of how important it is to consider accessibility in the design process. However, becoming a mum to a daughter with a rare genetic condition (KAT6 Syndrome), has given me a new perspective on the need for more thoughtful inclusive design, and the need for greater awareness about the choices we have available to us to enable flexibility for our future needs. I’ve become far more aware of gaps in the current provision, particularly in home design and children’s playgrounds, and areas where I think there’s potential for the building and product design industries to make a real difference and hopefully stimulate some positive accessible change!
Inclusive design is design for everyone, it’s not only about wheelchair turning circles, grab rails or stair lifts. It’s also about making life easier for the whole spectrum of access needs, from mobility and sensory impairments to neurodiverity, for parents with babies in prams, for crawlers, bum shufflers, toddlers, kids with bikes and scooters….. and good access needs to be viewed as a must have, not an added extra!
I’m interested in exploring all areas of inclusive and accessible design (places & spaces, products & tips) and particularly how these relate to sustainable design… and sometimes I’ll just be sharing some aspects (and challenges) of our everyday family life that may (or may not!) be of interest to anyone else!