T2. Universal Design Partnership with Archeworks, Inc
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Abstract
Archeworks is a unique organization that is equal parts design school, community organization, think-tank and laboratory. Because of the alternative, multi-disciplinary nature of the program Archeworks is able to provide projects with unparalleled pre-design concept research. In working with the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Archeworks will dedicate two years of project work focusing on design, design enhancements and testing of products for stroke patients (2006-2008). The Archeworks team will work with engineers and medical teams to design user friendly products using universal design principles.
In addition, students with a disability will be recruited for enrollment in the design program to work on the design, prototyping and testing of the products.
Archeworks was founded in Chicago in 1994 by two nationally recognized members of the Chicago architecture and design community, Stanley Tigerman, FAIA and Eva Maddox, FIIDA. Mr. Tigerman and Ms. Maddox had a simple premise -- because design shapes the way we live, it should serve everyone. Architects, designers and creative people can and should support design in the context of social cause.
Constituents that have benefited from Archeworks include people with physical and/or developmental disabilities, public housing residents, the homeless, children with learning disabilities, people with AIDS and Alzheimer's disease. Archeworks also addresses the needs of those who work to alleviate the above conditions like healthcare advocates, proponents of quality low-income housing and education reformers.