Date of Submission

Spring 5-7-2024

Degree Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Architecture

Department

Architecture

Committee Chair/First Advisor

Marietta Monaghan

Abstract

For blind pianists like Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder, or a deaf drummer such as Evelyn Glennie, how is it that they explore music? For a deaf and blind activist like Helen Keller, how could she have explored the world? The intent of this thesis is to discern and then integrate the spatial qualities that enhance communication and exploration for the sensory impaired into the public fabric. Simultaneously, the goal is to design a space that supplies to the needs of the sensory Impaired while incorporating the desirable features of the unimpaired. Typically, sensory impaired design, otherwise known as accessible design, is separated from the sensory unimpaired. Why can’t both inhabit the space? Through this thesis I am asking, how can we heighten the quality of communication, explorations, and experience within the public realm for both the sensory impaired and the unimpaired? Designers often settle for the inclusion of sensory impaired spaces when really, we should consider these spaces as an opportunity for an enriched curated experience for those with or without sensory impairments. Through the studies of sensorial communication techniques, I aim to identify and provide a public domain where those with sensory impairments and those without are encouraged to utilize their alternative/supplementary senses to explore and experience their environment in a new way. This research is conducted via the study of projects such as the Center for the blind and visually impaired in Mexico, Enabling Village in Singapore and Hazelwood School in the United Kingdom. Each of these projects specify the uplifting of the sensory impaired experience and these studies along with first-hand interactions with staff at the Atlanta center for the visually Impaired will then be cross referenced to the content found in supportive text. The summary of this study is to provide a more impactful and specialized sensory experience within the public realm for both those with and without the full spectrum of their senses. Someone who’s deaf can be a musician, a blind women fly a plan, and a mute can lead a choir; the only stipulation is not if it is possible but how is it achieved. I’ve already begun to see the environment differently, my Intent through this thesis is so that you would have the opportunity to see with more than just your eyes too.

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