(En)Abling Architectural Research: Co-Designing With People With Intellectual Disabilities

Area of Science:

• Architecture
• Disability Studies
• Participatory Research

Background:

• People with intellectual disabilities are under-represented in architectural design and research.
• This study explores their experiences in shopping centers.
• It proposes an inclusive methodological framework for their participation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an inclusive methodological framework for architectural research.
• To support the meaningful participation of people with intellectual disabilities.
• To guide researchers in embedding inclusive approaches.

Main Methods:

• Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach.
• Ethnographic methods including interviews, walking interviews, focus groups, and co-design workshops.
• Reflexive thematic analysis of collected data.

Main Results:

• Identified enabling measures for an inclusive research environment.
• Collaboration with a self-advocacy organization was crucial.
• Involvement of a co-researcher with lived experience and flexible timelines were key.

Conclusions:

• The developed framework provides practical guidance for inclusive architectural research.
• It emphasizes the importance of co-researcher involvement and tailored methods.
• The study is co-authored by academics and a co-researcher with lived experience.