Experiencing a multisensory exploration of interior design for the vision impaired
The Masters of Interior Design (MID) Studio 1 at UM and the Vision Impaired Resource Network (VIRN) hosted an exciting open house on December 16 to showcase how UM student project work reimagined the VIRN community hub.
The UM Department of Interior Design, part of the interdisciplinary Faculty of Architecture, collaborated throughout the fall term with VIRN, a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to supporting individuals with vision impairment. This partnership combined the department’s expertise in human-centred, context-based design with VIRN’s lived experience and specialized knowledge.
Together, they worked to create design solutions for the VIRN centre and community hub. Empathy training and interviews with VIRN allowed the students to develop a thorough understanding of their client’s space requirements, needs, wants, and challenges. Students researched multisensory design and inclusivity as well as conceptual studies on critical elements such as contrast, materials, and light.
Students were then able to create interior environments where VIRN can effectively deliver programs that enhance accessibility, confidence, and independence for individuals with vision impairments, enabling them to lead fully inclusive and productive lives.
For more information on the project please contact: Heather Anderson, Instructor, Department of Interior Design, University of Manitoba, Heather.Anderson@umanitoba.ca, or Heather Wallis, Instructor, Department of Interior Design, University of Manitoba, Heather.Wallis@umanitoba.ca
For more information on Vision Impaired Resource Network (VIRN): Doris Koop, Executive Director, info@virn.ca or 1 (204) ) 204-975-9394