Architecture firm Ashrafi & Zad have designed a park in Iran with the deaf and hard-of-hearing in mind. The park sits adjacent to Tehran's Sports Federation for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and was extensively researched by the design team in order to create an inclusive and comfortable environment.
The park features circular seating spaces that are built with a radius that is ideal for deaf visual dialogue. The circular seating spaces have accessible entrances that face the park's walkway, which helps ensure a safe and comfortable environment. Large parasols rest above the circular seating spaces - which provides shade so that signing can be visually legible. The landscaping for the park was also vigorously thought through. All the vegetation and greenery were purposefully chosen to prevent sudden approaches from angles not obvious to hard-of-hearing individuals.
Ultimately, the architects created a welcoming and accessible space for all.
Accessible Park Designs
A New Park in Iran Was Built to Accommodate the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Trend Themes
1. Inclusive Park Designs - Designing parks with the needs of specific groups in mind, such as those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.
2. Circular Seating Design - Creating circular seating spaces that are designed specifically for visual communication among those who are deaf.
3. Thoughtful Landscaping Choices - Carefully selecting greenery and vegetation to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for those who are hard-of-hearing.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architecture firms can specialize in designing spaces that are inclusive for individuals with varying needs and disabilities.
2. Parks and Recreation - Parks managers can learn from inclusive park designs, and create spaces that are welcoming to everyone in their communities.
3. Accessibility Services - Businesses can provide accessibility services, such as sign language interpretation, to make their services more accessible and inclusive for those with hearing impairments.