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WONDER STUDIOS
An Innovative Employment Collective for Citizens with Disabilities
A multi-faceted commercial facility that assists in the creation of employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities guided by a vision where people with disabilities are accepted by and included in society for their ability to contribute; ultimately, the facility created is meant to develop stable, long-term employment opportunities that would otherwise not exist
concept
An uplifting, inclusive environment aimed at building employment opportunities and fostering a connection to the community through a lively interior environment. The goal is for the space to unite and inspire individuals through creative opportunity, in a playful and spirited space, so that the collective may flourish
main floor plan
main floor plan
The primary space, Wonder Studios, is a working environment where individuals can create goods to sell in the secondary spaces, as well as host classes to the public. This includes a culinary studio, as well as an art studio and workshop on the second floor. The secondary spaces, a retail commons and café/bakery, are used to sell goods, and also foster connection to the local community. They are also staffed by individuals who are searching for stable employment, and not looking for entrepreneurship opportunities.
main stair
main stair
Inclusivity is at the forefront of the design throughout. Pictured is the main stair, with dual height handrails and flooring change indicators, making navigation simple for all. Also shown is the wayfinding wall system, which continues throughout the space. The texture helps those that are visually impaired to find their way through the interior.
culinary studio
culinary studio
The culinary studio features a vibrant, yet earthy palette. The lower cabinet heights and open working counter spaces make the studio accessible for all.
service counter
service counter
Up, Up & Away: Café and Bakery is open to the public and serves goods created in the culinary studio. It is a dynamic space where colour plays out beautifully, showing that an interior can still be playful without overstimulation.
café seating
café seating
Pictured is the hot air balloon ceiling feature, a unique element which assists in the creation of an uplifting, whimsical environment. Additionally, the variety of seating opportunities makes it easy for every user to have access and options.
retail display
retail display
Makerscape: The Retail Commons allows makers to sell the goods created in the studio spaces, such as paper goods, clothing, home décor, and housewares.
retail entry
retail entry
The use of raw materials allows the product to be displayed in a gallery-like setting, meaning the product is the focus and not just the interior. The plywood wall feature and custom built-in displays create a blank canvas, allowing the products to be showcased.
second floor plan
second floor plan
The second floor includes the art studio and workshop spaces, a part of the primary space, Wonder Studios. This floor also includes barrier-free, gender neutral washroom facilities, day-use lockers, and a gathering area. A major inclusive element is the addition of multiple sensory rooms; these spaces use soft seating, projectors, adjustable lighting conditions, and sensory features that help neurodivergent individuals to deescalate when overstimulated.
second floor gathering
second floor gathering
A continuation of the main floor area, the space features a custom mural and wayfinding wall system. The custom perforated metal panel ceiling feature allows for light to filter through in a playful, stimulating way.
art studio
art studio
Adjustable furnishings make the space inclusive of all users. The neutral palette creates a calm, creative space and the addition of a custom mural adds inspiration to the environment.
pottery area
pottery area
Additionally, the use of natural materiality and filtered light allows for a calming atmosphere, one conducive to a creative work environment.
workshop
workshop
Similar to the art studio, the workshop features a neutral palette, conducive to the spirited, working environment. The addition of the mural wall adds an element of liveliness to an otherwise blank slate. The open worktables allow for many makers to use the space at one time.
sensory room
sensory room
This space includes adjustable soft seating and playful elements such as the bubble tower wall and mural. The natural light filtered through the perforated screen creates a playful, yet calming space to unwind when overstimulated.
section one
section two
main floor lighting
main floor lighting
second floor lighting
second floor lighting
conclusion
Wonder Studios is a creative working environment which aims to feel warm and inviting to all who enter the space. The environment is conducive to both private and public, and provides areas that are both stimulating and calming. The atmosphere is lively, expressive and equally restful. Wonder Studios implements aspects of accessibility and inclusivity both physically, emotionally, culturally, and mentally, so that all users may thrive.
Ultimately, an inclusive and accessible environment contributes to a successful employment experience for all. It is clear that people with disabilities can and should live and work independently and contribute to their communities. Inclusive design matters because it makes the world a greater place; everyone has different abilities and interests and we should all be given equal opportunity to pursue those interests and to succeed in this lifetime.
thank you
thank you
Email: marples.emma@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-marples/ Instagram: @emmamarplesinteriors Phone: (780) 996-2722
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