Learn the what, why, and when – plus the personal backstory – about disability, accessibility, inclusion, and how designs originally intended for people with disabilities have transformed the greater culture. Even better, audiences are encouraged to think about what “difference” means.

Studio Pacifica founder and managing principal Karen Braitmayer (a life-long wheelchair user and parent of a daughter who uses a wheelchair) weaves stories of her life into the story of how the Americans With Disabilities Act and other laws have transformed the physical environment for people of all ages and abilities.

Customized keynote speeches and presentations for all audiences (by request). For architectural professionals, lunchtime trainings structured for teams looking to expand on their knowledge of FHA, ADA, inclusive design, and accessibility. With four-weeks notice, AIA CE credits are available for talks.

LAWS, CODES, GUIDELINES

United States Access Board
The U.S. Access Board is a federal agency that promotes equality for people with disabilities through leadership in accessible design. It is also charged with the development of accessibility guidelines and standards for the built environment, transportation, communication, medical diagnostic equipment, and information technology. www.Access-Board.gov

Department of Justice: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The DOJ provides access to Americans with Disabilities Act regulations for businesses, state and local governments, and individuals looking to learn more. www.ADA.gov

Fair Housing Accessibility First
Supported by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Fair Housing Accessibility FIRST is an initiative designed to promote compliance with the Act’s design and construction requirements. Instruction programs, online web resources, and a toll-free information line. www.fairhousingfirst.org

REMODELING FOR ACCESSIBILITY

Photo Guide to Home Modifications
The title says it all. For decades, the non-profit organization ASSIST Inc. has provided architectural design, community planning and development assistance to nonprofit and community groups (including accessibility design assistance to people with disabilities).
http://assistutah.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Photo_Guide_Compressed.pdf

Home Modifications for Accessibility
Helpful information uploaded to YouTube by the Utah Assistive Technology Program.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Qlt65MSlu8

TED TALKS

If you have 18 minutes, listen to a Ted Talk and learn more about the disability perspective.

https://www.ted.com/talks/stella_young_i_m_not_your_inspiration_thank_you_very_much
https://www.ted.com/talks/sinead_burke_why_design_should_include_everyone
https://www.ted.com/talks/elise_roy_when_we_design_for_disability_we_all_benefit

MICROSOFT’S DESIGN “MANIFESTO”

What culture-changing designs were first developed to benefit people with disabilities? Well, email, cell phones, and texting to name a few. Take a look at Microsoft’s inclusive design toolkit manual and learn more. https://www.microsoft.com/design/inclusive

NEW MOBILITY + NEW YORK TIMES

Special reports and ongoing publications provide up-to-date information on a wealth of issues related to disability, access, and culture.
http://www.newmobility.com
https://www.nytimes.com/topic/subject/disabilities