Valerie Van der Linden

Socially innovating architectural design practice by mobilising disability experience. An exploratory study

ABSTRACT Well-considered building codes turn out to be insufficient to ensure inclusive building design, suggesting a need for change in how building accessibility is addressed in architectural design practice. This article presents Rent-a-Spatialist, an attempt at socially innovating architectural design practice based on the skills of disabled people. Due to their particular interaction with the built environment, disabled people are able to appreciate spatial qualities architects may not be attuned to, which would contribute to a more inclusive built environment. Because this ability is rarely used in architectural design practice, and disabled people have a vulnerable position on the job market, we explored the potential of mobilising disability experience as a consultancy service to inform architectural design practice, which connects improving material conditions with improving social relations. To this end we probed the interest in such a service by interviewing 34 built environment professionals involved in building design and construction or exploitation in Belgium or the Netherlands. In addition, seven disabled people and 12 HR experts specialised in workforce diversity were interviewed about the potential of the envisaged service. Findings suggest that the service could strengthen disabled peoples position on the job market by enabling them to gain work experience. However, efforts are needed to convince built environment professionals of its added value, and to clarify issues related to disabled peoples employee status.

Architects’ Approaches to Healing Environment in Designing a Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centre

Abstract The built environment is increasingly recognized to influence people and their well-being. The related concept of Healing Environment is adopted by the Maggie’s Centres, which provide psychosocial cancer support in the UK. Outstanding architecture, stated to have the power to uplift people, is an inherent part of the programme. This paper investigates the meaning of Healing Environment in design practice. In-depth interviews with five designers of different Maggie’s Centres provide insight into their perspective. The study reveals particularities of the design process, such as a close collaboration with the client-expert. Furthermore, it identifies common design themes designers associated with Healing Environment, such as nature, spatial experience, domesticity, and privacy. Finally, a focus group interview with users of the Dundee Maggie’s Centre augments the discussion on how architecture can contribute to well-being.