Inclusive Design Poster Series
Inclusion is the building block of a community, and the designation of the public and personal space as places of social equilibrium predisposes that the conditions support variations in cognition and physiology inherent upon society as a whole. And while it includes the ability of individuals to obtain or make use of something regardless of physical stature or limitation - we like to ask - What determines the equity? And, How can dependence be measured within a civic infrastructure? We imagine it as a relationship between the readability, its comprehension, and the readiness for the encounter.
The poster series, developed during my tenure as the director of the Center for Universal Design at NC State University, served as a crucial step towards fostering greater awareness and understanding of universal design principles. Funded by the NC Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, these nine posters were designed to engage various communities by illustrating how universal design can enhance accessibility and inclusivity.
Each poster visually conveyed different principles of universal design, paired with real-world examples and practical applications. This approach not only highlighted the aesthetic and functional benefits of universally designed environments but also emphasized the importance of considering diverse user needs in design processes.
By targeting different audience segments—ranging from educators and architects to community leaders and students—we aimed to spark conversations and inspire action around creating spaces that are welcoming and usable for everyone. The promotional materials and technical packs accompanying each poster provided additional resources and guidelines for implementing these principles in local projects.
Through this initiative, we sought to cultivate a deeper understanding of how design can bridge gaps, promote equity, and ultimately foster a stronger sense of community. By making universal design a central topic of discussion, we hoped to not only raise awareness but also encourage stakeholders to actively participate in creating environments that support the varied cognitive and physiological needs of all individuals, thereby enriching the social fabric of our communities.