Design for disability is an area where there is much scepticism about what designers can really achieve. Disabilities vary across a broad spectrum of need and assistive technology is regarded by many as the lead discipline in this field. Much design has necessarily addressed disability from the narrow viewpoint of adaptive aids and appliances. Aesthetics and enjoyment in use have been low priorities.

This project generated proposals that reflect a more inclusive viewpoint. The designs have an attractive ‘mainstream’ aesthetic that does not stigmatise the user; they look like fun and the project title ‘Playground’ actively promotes that approach. The technique of tailoring site-specific designs to the particular needs of individual users was also helpful in articulating a more general inclusive design approach.

Preliminary research on the project with Leonard Cheshire revealed that, despite the physical challengers they faced, disabled teleworkers wanted to join the working world on their own terms using equipment they enjoyed rather than endured. For many disabled people, working from home is not a lifestyle choice but the only way to do paid work while accessing regular care and rest facilities they need. How can designers build a dialogue with this ’invisible’ group of workers to meet their needs in the future?