Tactile-audio model projects collaborating with Stichting Geluid in Zicht.
Together with Hannes Wallrafen a founder of Stichting Geluid in Zicht, we are developing the tactile audio models of the Rijksmuseum and the ARCAM Architecture Centre Amsterdam to improve accessibility.
In a usual architecture model, the visual information would be the point of importance, but not so in these projects with Hannes. These architectural models are like physical tools for the perception of space. We must work from new perspectives, such as tactile sensations and color contrasts to gain accessibility, and to support visually impaired users especially. This is a new challenge to us, but we find it is significantly important because of its social impact.
We are currently continuing detailed discussions with Hannes. We look forward to having many people use our “supporting tools”.
Hannes Wallrafen: Founder/Director of Stichting Geluid in Zicht, who was known as a photographer, lost his eyesight in the early 2000s and is now exploring the world and the possibilities of sound. And this time, we will produce models that you can touch and when you touch the points, you will hear an audio guide.
Hannes and Kaita examining a mock-up model of the Rijksmuseum while touching it in our studio.
A visit to the Rijksmuseum.
Hannes and the curator of ARCAM checking a mockup model at the ARCAM Architecture Centre Amsterdam.
