Zarina Farmer-George
Invis-abilities: Enhancing Accessibility in Design for Mind and Body
This research explores the limitations of the American Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design (ADA) in addressing the diverse needs of individuals in today’s society.
While the ADA provides enforceable accessibility guidelines for new constructions, they primarily focus on physical impairments, overlooking mental conditions and unique body types. This study advocates for the inclusion of “invis-abilities,” such as autism, social anxiety, ADHD, and depression, which are often unnoticed but significantly impact individuals’ daily experiences.
Through a phenomenological approach to architecture and design, this research aims to develop an updated design guidebook that celebrates neurodiversity and enhances the inclusivity of ADA-compliant spaces. Using technical drawings currently found in the ADA and images from various creators who use light, color, texture, and show bodies in a new light to affect emotion and comment on our attitude to bodies in society, new sets of technical drawings are created. The new sets of technical drawings, that beg the question. ‘What would the ADA technical drawings look like if we considered humanity and individuality in their creation?’, are compiled into a guidebook that shows the reader a framework of what aspects of design should be considered to create a more inclusive and healthy environment.
Leveraging both AI-generated insights and human analysis, this study seeks to inform designers about sensory experiences, cognitive differences, and considerations for safety and comfort, ultimately aiding in the audit and enhancing of the current ADA guidelines.