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Designing Inclusive Spaces with Tom Gray MCIAT and Fern Lulham | 009
Welcome to Where it's AT | the Architectural Technology Podcast
In this episode hosted by Tom Gray MCIAT, Chartered Architectural Technologist, the conversation centres on inclusive design and its emotional and functional impacts on people with disabilities. Guest, psychotherapist, speaker, and BBC broadcaster Fern Lulham, who is blind, shares her experiences growing up with messages of resilience and equality but notes the practical challenges and emotional toll of navigating spaces not designed with accessibility in mind. The discussion extends to the need for creativity, courage, and connection in architectural design, emphasising that thoughtful design should empower and include everyone. Fern and Tom also discuss specific examples like public toilets and airport wayfinding to highlight how design decisions can significantly affect the lives and self-esteem of people with disabilities.
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00:00 Introduction
01:00 Guest Introduction: Fern Lulham
01:52 Messages from Childhood
02:59 Navigating the World Differently
05:53 Loneliness and Ideal Self
10:28 Challenges in the Built Environment
18:37 The Importance of Inclusive Design
25:39 Final Thoughts and Closing
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Key Takeaways
Inclusive Design Benefits Everyone: Designing spaces that are accessible to all people, including those with disabilities, helps everyone feel welcome and valued. It’s not just about meeting practical needs but ensuring that everyone can participate equally.
Emotional Impact of Design: The way a space is designed can greatly affect a person's self-esteem and confidence. Poorly designed environments can make people feel excluded and frustrated, while thoughtful design can foster a sense of belonging and independence.
Curiosity and Courage in Design: Designers should always be open to new ways of thinking and not be afraid to try different approaches. Collaborating with those who have different experiences, such as people with disabilities, can lead to better and more inclusive solutions.
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Know someone who could benefit from listening? Subscribe and share this episode with your network.
Know someone with a story to tell or a topic to explore? Email us at [email protected] to nominate a guest or a topic.
Want to learn more about Architectural Technology, how to progress your career, or how to work with a Chartered AT? Head to architecturaltechnology.com to find out more
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Podcast recorded and edited by: Jon Clayton [Podcasting]
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Disclaimer
The contents and views expressed by individuals in the Where it's AT podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of the companies they work for or the Host. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice.
View all episodes
By Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT)Welcome to Where it's AT | the Architectural Technology Podcast
In this episode hosted by Tom Gray MCIAT, Chartered Architectural Technologist, the conversation centres on inclusive design and its emotional and functional impacts on people with disabilities. Guest, psychotherapist, speaker, and BBC broadcaster Fern Lulham, who is blind, shares her experiences growing up with messages of resilience and equality but notes the practical challenges and emotional toll of navigating spaces not designed with accessibility in mind. The discussion extends to the need for creativity, courage, and connection in architectural design, emphasising that thoughtful design should empower and include everyone. Fern and Tom also discuss specific examples like public toilets and airport wayfinding to highlight how design decisions can significantly affect the lives and self-esteem of people with disabilities.
—
00:00 Introduction
01:00 Guest Introduction: Fern Lulham
01:52 Messages from Childhood
02:59 Navigating the World Differently
05:53 Loneliness and Ideal Self
10:28 Challenges in the Built Environment
18:37 The Importance of Inclusive Design
25:39 Final Thoughts and Closing
—
Key Takeaways
Inclusive Design Benefits Everyone: Designing spaces that are accessible to all people, including those with disabilities, helps everyone feel welcome and valued. It’s not just about meeting practical needs but ensuring that everyone can participate equally.
Emotional Impact of Design: The way a space is designed can greatly affect a person's self-esteem and confidence. Poorly designed environments can make people feel excluded and frustrated, while thoughtful design can foster a sense of belonging and independence.
Curiosity and Courage in Design: Designers should always be open to new ways of thinking and not be afraid to try different approaches. Collaborating with those who have different experiences, such as people with disabilities, can lead to better and more inclusive solutions.
—
Know someone who could benefit from listening? Subscribe and share this episode with your network.
Know someone with a story to tell or a topic to explore? Email us at [email protected] to nominate a guest or a topic.
Want to learn more about Architectural Technology, how to progress your career, or how to work with a Chartered AT? Head to architecturaltechnology.com to find out more
—
Podcast recorded and edited by: Jon Clayton [Podcasting]
—
Disclaimer
The contents and views expressed by individuals in the Where it's AT podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of the companies they work for or the Host. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice.