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At the heart of the Beckman Institute at the University of Illinois, a vibrant, colorful space hums with innovation and empathy. It’s called the (dis)Ability Design Studio, and it is led by Professor Deana McDonagh, professor of industrial design at the School of Art and Design and passionate advocate for inclusive design. Here, students, researchers, and community members come together to create products and environments that serve not just people with disabilities—but everyone.
The studio works as a think tank. “It creates a space in which ideas are welcome,” says design researcher Tim Bleakney. With its open, playful environment, the studio encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and human-centered problem-solving.
McDonagh explains that the focus is on designing for wheelchair users, older adults, and others often underserved by conventional design. “When we focus on those extremes,” she explains, “we build in design integrity. And then the wider population can benefit.”
History shows the truth in this approach. Technologies like closed captioning, text-to-speech, and accessible public transportation were originally developed for people with disabilities—but are now part of everyday life. The University of Illinois itself was a pioneer, being the first U.S. campus with curb cuts and accessible buses.
The studio’s mission goes beyond technology. It’s about changing the way people are included in the design process. “We don’t study people with disabilities,” McDonagh says. “We collaborate with them. Their voice and knowledge are irreplaceable.”
Ultimately, the (dis)Ability Design Studio is about reimagining what good design looks like. It’s not just functional—it’s empowering, dignified, and joyful. “It’s a serious place,” McDonagh notes, “with serious conversations—but it’s also playful.”
To learn more about the studio, visit design-studio.illinois.edu.