Sensory architecture

Those participating in the studio investigated sensory experience in architecture within the context of inclusive design practices. Critics of inclusive design have accused it of neutralizing our built environment—of erasing difference. The objective of the studio was to make the case that inclusive design, if practiced conscientiously, actually does the opposite—it focuses on difference and personal empowerment through multi-sensory approaches to design. Our challenge was to even the sensory playing field—and in so doing, to develop convincing proposals that not only enrich conventional visual concepts of space, but also open choices for those with other sensory preferences.