Design for autism in children’s museums

Diagrammatic plan of a museum

Design for autism in children’s museums

Madison Vitale
ARC623 | Fall 2015

“Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental disability defined by diagnostic criteria that include deficits in social communication and social interaction and restricted, repetitive behavior, interests, or activities.” (Baio, 2010) ASD is quite difficult to define since the disorder affects everyone uniquely as individuals with ASD can be anywhere on the “spectrum” from high functioning to low functioning.

Explore & More Children’s Museums  is anticipating significant lines, crowds, and noise,  and they’re concerned that the space will trigger children on the autism spectrum and therefore make them feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed as these individuals can be hypersensitive. With their goal of being as inclusive as possible, Explore & More has been consulting with the Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (IDeA Center) on solutions to better addresses ASD visitors’ needs.

Addressing obesity with an active approach

Site plan of a park

Addressing obesity with an active approach

Austin Tylec
ARC623 | Fall 2015

Approximately half of the population in the United States are classified as overweight or obese. This disease results in long-term negative effects on the body which annually cost over 1 billion dollars in medical expenses. This demographic is faced with physical and emotional barriers that exclude them from the built environment. By designing an approachable and active environment that people want to use, we can help promote a healthy lifestyle that will decrease the rate of obesity.

Eliminating barriers for LGBT seniors in our community

Photograph of an older same sex couple

Eliminating barriers for LGBT seniors in our community

Jennifer McQuilkin
ARC623 | Fall 2015

The population of aging adults in the US who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender is on the rise.Currently there are 3 million LGBT adults over 55 years of age. By 2030 this number is expected to increase substantially, potentially growing to 7.2 million adults. Many LGBT Seniors are impacted by the effects of social stigma, past and present, in addition to inequitable laws, programs, and services.

Community bifurcation

Site plan of a street

Community bifurcation

Emily Hays
ARC623 | Fall 2015

There are limited crossings between east San Jose and the downtown core. Most of these connections are dangerous and unappealing to anyone attempting to cross without a vehicle. The sidewalk is narrow, curb dimensions favor high-speed turns, and aging infrastructure combined with widespread construction creates a hazardous surface. The street geometry does not allot space for bike facilities and riders are further discouraged by the ramps that create busy, high volume intersections during commute times.