Exhibition space design for the blind and visually impaired

In the first part of this diploma thesis, we presented a theoretical starting point in the field of the blind and visually impaired; the meaning of words in this area and what means to be blind or visually impaired. With that in mind, we divided the group of sensory disabled to two groups; those who rely on the visual world and those who rely primarily on helping aids. Based on these descriptions I researched their different helping aids and ways of movement. These starting points were important mainly because the knowledge is essential to then be able to successfully adapt the exhibition spaces for both of the groups. Adapted exhibition design cannot be made without the knowledge above- therefore it was only at this point that possible exhibition designs are presented including financial resources. In the theoretical part, we mainly relied on professional sources, which gained value only in connection with the empirical work, where we came into contact with both; individuals who are working in the field of blind and partially sighted and also with individuals who are blind. We gained insight into ways that could possible help connect cultural institutions and people who are blind or visually impaired. We came to the conclusion that there were similar points in theoretical and empirical research. We have found that people think that such adaptations would not only be used by a group of blind and partially sighted people, but by everyone. In order to be able to improve the educational aspect and also excitement of the space for everyone, including children and families, by introducing more senses in the exhibition design. We have also come to the conclusion that the needed adjustments are actually very simple to make and bring to the exhibition space, but in order to be able to implement them in the long run, we would need a better way to finance such projects