Abstract
Designing lighting for museum spaces often overlooks the visitor experience and their interaction with the exhibits. Our research project aimed to create more accessible museum environments by transforming spatial perception through lighting. We collaborated with TH-OWL University in Detmold, Germany, Sentistic, a startup specializing in sensor data, and Zumtobel, a leading lighting manufacturer, to develop a co-creation methodology that involves users in the design process. The primary focus was on improving lighting for the visually impaired. We employed both quantitative methods (photo surveys with 360° HDR imaging, statistical space usage data, and on-site light reflection measurements) and qualitative methods (interviews with visually impaired visitors and on-site observations) to compare and assess lighting in two different scenarios. The first scenario used the museum’s standard lighting, while the second utilized Zumtobel’s equipment to create a more balanced lighting environment. A key aspect of our study was the inclusion of co-creation, engaging our target audience in shaping the lighting design. This approach provided valuable insights and demonstrated the importance of involving users in the design process to create spaces that truly meet their needs. Our findings highlight the potential of co-creation in designing inclusive and accessible environments (eg museums). We aim to replicate this research to further explore the intersection of lighting, inclusion, and co-creation. Sharing our results and learning process will foster dialogue and inspire new perspectives on designing for diverse user groups.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2025 Special Focus—Thinking, Learning, Doing: Plural Ways of Design
KEYWORDS
Co-creation, Lighting, Inclusion, Perception, User-centred Design, Museum, Experience, Data, Interview
