BlindSpace

For the past year, I have been beginning to explore the concept of BlindSpace. Previously undefined, it is based on the already established concept of DeafSpace which is an approach to design based on the experience of Deafness. Both concepts are not focussed on accessibility, but instead designing from an experience. While this does create an accessible environment, it is more concerned with the qualities and aesthetics of a space from a different sensory hierarchy.

BlindSpace recognises the ontology of blindness, taking blindness not as simply the lack of sight, but a different way of being, thinking and interacting with the world. As such, BlindSpace is not just about designing for the non-visual, but also incorporates the mental mapping or modelling of space and non-visual orientation. As such, my initial thoughts on BlindSpace has two layers - a mental element and a sensory element.

The design elements I have defined so far include:

Expansion and Compression - Contrasting large and small spaces creates distinct acoustic environments, that can be used for mapping or as an aesthetic quality.

Tactile Reach - Designing with aesthetic consideration within the body’s reach.

Tactile Gradients - Using a texture that shift in a given direction, either to give a direction or as a locating tool.

Slopes - Slopes are better than steps as there is no risk of falling, but the gradient can also provide direction.

Right Angles - Are particularly easy to mentally map, these could be used for the majority of a design and then contrasted with other angles.

Tactile Zoning - Using different textures on floors enables an understanding of areas of space, without explicit accessibility like tactile paving. This can also be used to mark thresholds.

Feature Coupling - With mental mapping being dependent on memory, this can be aided by coupling features together. In this example, coupling doors with the room’s corners, rather than a random distance along a wall.

Linked to BlindSpace is the development of a blind process for producing and communicating architecture. This includes a range of methods from modelling and tactile drawings, to text or audio descriptions and soundscaping.

BlindSpace has been developed during my first year of MA Architecture at the Royal College of Art. This involved the testing of these ideas through the design of an artist residency space in Dungeness, England.

The project is still in the early stages of development and is ongoing.