T2. Universal Design Partnership with Archeworks, Inc

Contact Information:

Susanne Schnell, Executive Director
schnell@archeworks.org
www.archeworks.org

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. 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.

In the past, the RRTC partnership has allowed Archeworks to study the application of universal design and develop specific prototypes and products to help stroke survivors integrate into the broader community. This next phase will allow Archeworks to expand on that work by integrating the social and/or participation limitation perspective into larger projects that seek to have an impact on a macro level. For example, projects such as the development of urban green spaces and parks would benefit significantly from the inclusion of elements that would make the parks accessible to those with participation limitations.