Involving blind user/experts in architectural design: conception and use of more-than-visual design artefacts

Abstract

ABSTRACT Architectural design as collaborative practice relies on using representational artefacts. However, these artefacts and their use are prone to a visual bias, which may pose problems in co-designing with vision impaired people. This article studies how we can develop representational artefacts to support a discussion between architects and blind people, and how these artefacts mediate the discussion. We performed a 3-month focussed ethnography using participant observation in an architectural design firm involved in a competition design. In agreement with the architects, we introduced two blind persons as user/expert at distinct moments. Together, we developed and tested visuo-haptic design representations. We analyse how these representations were conceived and used. We first discuss how the representations perceptually and cognitively support verbal and gestural communication. Secondly, we explain why, after having analysed their use in a design meeting, we move from the term ‘tactile model’ to ‘visuo-haptic model’. And thirdly, we discuss how the ownership of the models shifts and how that relates to the ownership of the design. To conclude, visuo-haptic design representations can support aspects of co-design with blind people, but raise further questions regarding the role of representation in co-design in general.