Creating accessible maps for individuals with visual impairments is a complex process. When designing tactile maps, we need to carefully consider how to best integrate braille to convey information effectively without sacrificing practicality and efficiency. This post explores the challenges and solutions involved in using braille on tactile maps, drawing from our design experience. (more…)
Book review, Crooked Paths Made Straight: A Journey Across the World with a Blind Teacher
I recently finished reading Crooked Paths Made Straight by Isabelle L.D. Grant, and it’s a book that has really stayed with me. It’s not just a travelogue; it’s a deeply personal account of a blind teacher’s journey around the world in 1959 and 1960, and it offers a unique window into a time that feels..
Traveling to Make a Difference: How Flight for Sight Inspires Creativity and Global Awareness
Flight for Sight is a nonprofit organization that empowers individuals who are blind or have low vision by offering $10,000 travel grants. These grants enable recipients to explore the world, engage with diverse communities, and educate others about blindness and low vision. (more…)
The life of Louis Braille through 3D printed buildings
Today is the birthday of Louis Braille, and in 2024 we also remembered that it has been 200 years that he invented the writing system that we call braille today. I was always interested in his life, what did it look like in practice, where did he live, what were the objects he used. Just..
Tactile Museums: A Guide for the Blind & Visually Impaired
Exploring Tactile Museums: Enhancing Accessibility for the Blind & Visually Impaired Throughout the years, the general perception of museums has been that they house rich collections of the finest art, culture, history, and other knowledge. However, the traditional design of museums often excludes people who are blind or visually impaired. This is where tactile exhibits..
Top 35 Thoughtful Gifts for People With Low Vision or Blindness
Gift-giving is a thoughtful way to express love and appreciation. However, choosing the perfect gift for someone with unique needs, such as a visually impaired person, requires more thoughtfulness. For blind individuals, an ideal gift can go beyond the boundaries of a mere token. It is a way to show your consideration and establish a..
Goalball Explained: Gameplay, Rules & Its Social Impact
Sports are all about working together, sharing power, and standing together. It transcends language and culture to bring people of all kinds. To most individuals who have blindness or visual impairment, goalball is more than just a sport. This unique sport is created for athletes who have disabilities and is a perfect example of the..
The advantages of 3D tactile maps
Tactile maps are, by design, three-dimensional, as they use raised surfaces to make a two-dimensional map touchable. However, traditional tactile maps elevate features just enough for them to be discernible by touch, while 3D maps go further by utilizing height and depth to convey richer, more intuitive information. This makes 3D maps more effective and..
DiversiGO, an inclusive guided tour company in Budapest
DiversiGO is a city tour company offering tours for everyone, particularly for people with disabilities. Last time I was in Budapest, I scheduled a tour with them. (more…)
Visiting the Souvenir Building Collectors Society convention
Recently I wrote about how my new building project helped me understand architecture so much better. But last week, when I attended the annual convention of the Souvenir Building Collectors Society, it took my appreciation to a new level. (more…)