Imagining Access >> crip computing

Address: 830 N. University Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1048

By Laura Zhang and William Shen

Project Description:

The Kinesiology Building at the University of Michigan, originally constructed in 1915 as the Edward Henry Kraus Building, was significantly renovated and expanded in a $120 million project completed in January 2021. Designed by renowned architect Albert Kahn, who also crafted other university landmarks, the building now encompasses 245,000 square feet, including new research labs, classrooms, and common spaces, all centrally located on the Diag. This renovation brought all the School of Kinesiology’s facilities under one roof for the first time, significantly enhancing collaboration and accessibility. The project was also awarded LEED Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency.

The purpose of the University of Michigan’s School of Kinesiology Building is to serve as a leading international educational and research hub related to physical activity, health and wellness, and sport management.

We propose a speculative design project aimed at reimagining the Kinesiology Building at the University of Michigan to better meet the diverse needs of all its students. Our goal is to identify and propose innovative solutions that enhance the learning and accessibility experiences within this space.

Current Accessibility Features

1. Entrances and Mobility Access:
   • The building features multiple ramps with a gentle incline, well-suited for wheelchair users, adjacent to almost every small staircase, ensuring that vertical mobility is not hindered by stairs alone.

• ADA-compliant automatic doors are installed at both the main and secondary entrances, which are essential for users with mobility or strength limitations.
  • ADA-compliant automatic doors are installed at both the main and secondary entrances, which are essential for users with mobility or strength limitations.

2. Elevator Accessibility:
   • Multiple elevators are crucial for those unable to use stairs. The main elevators are spacious enough to accommodate larger mobility devices.

• Elevator controls include Braille for visually impaired users and are positioned at accessible heights for wheelchair users.

3. Navigation and Information:
   • Strategically placed QR codes throughout the building allow for easy access to digital maps, significantly aiding in navigation for newcomers or those with cognitive disabilities who benefit from visual aids. Also, the map labels accessible entrances. 

• The flooring throughout the building is smooth, facilitating easier movement for wheelchairs, walkers, and those with mobility aids.

4. Lighting and Environmental Design:
   • The extensive use of natural light not only creates a welcoming and warm environment but also helps in reducing the sensory overload that can occur in artificially lit, enclosed spaces.

• The presence of large common areas with various seating options provides comfortable spaces for rest and social interaction, which can be beneficial for individuals with fatigue or pain issues.

5. Classroom
   • Handrails along the crossway help people get access to their seats easier.

• All chairs and tables are equipped with wheels, which help to rearrange seating position in order to fit everyone, including wheelchairs.

Current Areas of Inaccessibility

1. Visual and Navigational Barriers:
   • The building’s signage system might not be adequate in all areas, especially concerning the visibility and immediate recognition of elevator locations and accessible paths, which can be disorienting or inaccessible for visually impaired individuals or those unfamiliar with the layout.

• Motivational phrases such as “take it to the next level” on stairs can be seen as exclusive, particularly to those who are unable to physically ‘climb’ to another level, potentially impacting the inclusiveness of the environment.

• In a building emphasizing physical activity, health and wellness, and sport management, there are a ton of images of people running, lacking inclusivity for people who are unable to run.

• On the digital maps, there are no description of where the ramps are. There are only description of the stairs and elevators. 

2. Architectural and Design Limitations:
   • The secondary and side entrances lacking outward-opening ADA push buttons present a significant barrier for leaving the building independently for individuals with certain disabilities.

• The size and accessibility of the clinic elevator is relatively small, where it might not adequately accommodate all types of mobility aids, such as larger electric wheelchairs or scooters.

3. Facility Specific Issues:
   • The layout that requires navigating through multiple doors to access main areas can be challenging, especially for those using mobility aids. Double doors can be particularly cumbersome if not automated or if they lack sufficient space for maneuvering.

• For the accessibility bathrooms, the doors are heavy and there’s no ADA push buttons to open them.

• The classrooms only have stairs for a commute. People with physical disabilities cannot pass easily.

Possible Alternatives (Re-designs in the future)

1. Architectural and Design Enhancements
   1. Automated Doors: Install automated doors with ADA push buttons for all entrances, exits, and accessible restrooms to facilitate ease of movement for all users.
   2. Expand Elevator Access: Increase the size of the clinic elevator, to accommodate a range of mobility aids and improve traffic flow during peak times.
   3. Visible Navigation Aids: Implement high-contrast, tactile signage along with auditory signals at key points like elevators, exits, and restrooms to aid visually impaired users.
   4. Multipurpose Seating Areas: Design seating areas that cater to a variety of needs, including adjustable heights, ample space for mobility devices, and areas designed for rest or sensory breaks.
2. Inclusive Design and Messaging
   • Revised Art and Decor: Replace imagery focused solely on active, running figures with diverse representations of people engaging in various forms of physical activity, including those that highlight adaptive sports or activities.
     1. For example, we could have a diverse gallery of images and sculptures that include:
        • Participants in wheelchair basketball, showcasing dynamic movement and athletic skill.
        • Swimmers with various physical abilities, perhaps including Paralympic athletes.
        • A yoga class with participants of different ages, body types, and abilities, including those using props or adaptive techniques for poses.
     2. These changes would not only diversify the types of physical activities depicted but also celebrate a wide range of human experiences and abilities, thereby making the space more welcoming and inspiring for everyone.
   • Reevaluate Messaging: Modify motivational signage to include messages that resonate with all levels of ability, ensuring that the language is empowering and inclusive.
     1. For example, instead of “Take it to the next level”, “Reach new heights, in your own way” might be a better message. This revised message shifts the focus from the physical act of ascending, which could be exclusive to those who use stairs, to a broader, more inclusive concept of personal and academic achievement that resonates with everyone, regardless of physical ability. The message encourages progress and achievement in ways that are accessible and meaningful to each individual.
   • Virtual Tours and Maps: Enhance digital maps to include detailed descriptions of accessible paths, ramps, and facilities, possibly integrating AR (Augmented Reality) technology for real-time navigation assistance.
3. Community and User Feedback
   • Engagement Sessions: Conduct regular feedback sessions with students and faculty, including those with disabilities, to gather input on current challenges and effectiveness of newly implemented features.
   • Accessibility Audits: Regularly schedule audits by accessibility experts to ensure that the building meets or exceeds ADA standards and is welcoming to everyone.

Conclusion

The renovation of the University of Michigan’s Kinesiology Building is a good start, but it’s just that—a start. The presence of ramps, ADA-compliant doors, and multi-functional elevators demonstrates a commitment to physical accessibility, yet the building’s navigational aids, motivational messaging, and visual representations need thoughtful reconsideration to truly resonate with a diverse student body. Accessibility is not just about physical adjustments but about nurturing an environment that respects and celebrates diversity in all its forms.
Moving forward, the proposed enhancements, including more intuitive navigation aids, inclusive art, and reimagined messaging, aim to transform the Kinesiology Building into a model of inclusivity, not just for the University of Michigan but for educational institutions everywhere. These improvements, coupled with a dynamic approach to community feedback and ongoing revisions, will not only address the immediate physical barriers but also foster a culture that positions accessibility at the forefront of educational excellence. The journey toward full accessibility is complex and ongoing, but it is a crucial step toward creating a truly inclusive academic community.

References:

https://2021.annualreport.umich.edu/major-projects/school-of-kinesiology-renovation-and-addition

https://www.kines.umich.edu/about/mission-values-leadership

https://www.kines.umich.edu/about/kinesiology-building

https://www.kines.umich.edu/about/kinesiology-building/maps-directions