The Inclusive Carriage
I proposed a conceptual model of an 'Inclusive Carriage' as a part of my Capstone titled - Mind the Gap : Accommodating Neurodiversity in Singapore's MRT. [Link] The rationale behind the proposal is presented on this page.
The problem
The notion of personal space and privacy emerged as a strong theme in the findings and interviews conducted for this study. Research suggests that neurodivergent individuals, particularly children with autism, need more personal space than others. (Gessaroli et al., 2013) Additionally, hypersensitivity to touch can result in negative behaviors or meltdowns when personal space is invaded without permission. (See chapter 6)
Some of the common difficulties reported by Neurodivergent commuters and their caregivers have been shown in this diagram below :
Proposal : Seating Units prioritising proxemics and personal space.
With this in mind, the design recommendations presented in this chapter focus on the train carriage, as it is where neurodivergent individuals have the least control over their personal space and where they spend the most time. As some participants expressed concerns about the idea of a separate carriage for neurodivergent individuals, the goal of this design solution is to make existing carriages more inclusive through sensitive design.
Based on the findings of the study, the design of the seating unit in the inclusive carriage is centred around the concept of proxemics and the need for personal space. The proposed seating arrangement allows for neurodivergent individuals to create a separation between themselves and other commuters, thus avoiding unwanted proximity and accidental touches. This can be achieved through removable separations that provide commuters with the choice to retain their personal space.
Various configurations of the seating unit
Proposal : Inclusive carriage with a variable seating layout
In the proposed seating arrangement, paired seats face away from each other, allowing commuters to (i) have their personal space, (ii) avoid having to face the crowd, and (iii) avoid being in physical proximity to standing commuters. The center-facing seats are made more accessible through a (iv) slight incline next to the seats that discourages people from standing too close to the sitting passengers. Moreover, (v) handrails are exclusively placed in the center to encourage standing commuters to stay in the middle.
Isometric Section : Inclusive Carriage - Hybrid Configuration
In the most accessible version of this seating arrangement, I propose a pair of priority seats in the corner (Figure 10d) of the cabin next to the train doors. This seating arrangement was inspired by the concept of 'prospect and refuge' - where neurodivergent individuals feel safer in smaller, sheltered spaces within a bigger open space.
The proposed carriage layout is just one of many possible arrangements that can be implemented to create a more inclusive and comfortable commuting experience for all individuals. The design recommendations have been carefully curated to ensure that they do not ‘segregate’ neurodivergent individuals but rather ‘integrate’ inclusive features into existing design.
Plan views of the variable Layouts.
Outcome: A space that aims to address the needs of people with various abilities
Ultimately, the proposal aims to address the various needs of neurodivergent individuals that were uncovered by this study.
