Michaela Presented Her Thesis About Designing Autism-friendly Experiences

Our very own Landscape Design Project Coordinator, Micaela Ada, presented her graduate school thesis at the 55th annual Environmental Design Research Association (EDRA) conference in Portland, OR.

Her poster session was focused on designing an autism-friendly experience for adults in Palmer Park.

Through her research, Michaela found there was a common desire among autistic adults for park spaces — to encourage personal autonomy and a sense of safety.

Her findings helped inform 6 main considerations when designing for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):

There is a noticeable gap in design research centered on the needs of adults with ASD in public recreational landscapes and we’re proud to support Michaela’s efforts to address this gap.

Her presentation continues to push our mission of creating an equitable built environment for all. Thank you, Michaela, for bringing this topic to like minded peers.