This community-engaged design studio explores how architecture can support dignity, autonomy, and belonging for people with intellectual, developmental, sensory, and physical disabilities. In partnership with CHInyc and JSDD, students investigate inclusive housing models at multiple scales—from supportive residential prototypes to urban mixed-use communities—through research, stakeholder engagement, site analysis, and design exploration. Moving beyond minimum accessibility standards, the studio examines how housing and shared spaces can foster independence, social connection, and meaningful participation in community life.
This studio is developed in collaboration with two organizations actively engaged in advancing inclusive and supportive housing models for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
is a New York City–based advocacy and development organization working to create inclusive housing opportunities that allow adults with disabilities to live as integrated members of broader urban communities. CHInyc advocates for housing models that combine autonomy, social inclusion, accessibility, and long-term community participation while challenging traditional institutional approaches to disability housing.
is a New Jersey–based organization that provides residential, vocational, and support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. JSDD operates supportive housing environments throughout New Jersey and focuses on promoting independence, dignity, safety, and meaningful community engagement for residents across varying levels of support needs.
Through engagement with these organizations, students will gain exposure to real-world housing challenges, caregiving structures, operational considerations, and the lived experiences of individuals and families navigating supportive and inclusive housing systems.
Phase 1 — Research + Stakeholder Engagement
Assignment 1A • Assignment 1B • Assignment 1C
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Phase 2 — Site Analysis + Concept Development
Assignment 2A • Assignment 2B • Assignment 2C
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Phase 3 — Prototype Development
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Phase 4 — Community Integration
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Phase 5 — Final Resolution
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Community Showcase
August 10, 2026
At the heart of this studio are the individuals, families, and caregivers who generously shared their experiences through the My Story narratives and conversations with students. Their insights into daily routines, aspirations, challenges, and sources of joy have informed our understanding of disability, independence, and community life. These lived experiences serve as an essential foundation for the studio, teaching students design environments that support dignity, autonomy, belonging, and meaningful participation in everyday life.
Group discussion during workshop
Embodied Excercise- Blind fold
Embodied Exercise- Wheelchair
Navigating campus
Site visits allowed students to observe supportive housing environments, assistive technologies, caregiving practices, and community settings firsthand.
Life | Home | Tech Model Apartment
JSDD W Orange Home
ARC Essex W Caldwell
Students presented research findings and emerging design ideas to self-advocates, caregivers, housing providers, and community partners whose feedback helped establish design values for subsequent phases of the studio.