I found this type of post-visual design which focused on the other senses was crucial within the design for the visually impaired. I considered how this building could be repurposed if redeveloped for a different occupant. I began to look at NCBI ( National Council for the Blind Ireland). I felt due to it's prominence in the city, this building could be a beacon for change, a new type of accessibility considered design. I looked at how it could combine many of the NCBI's services in one centrally placed iconic building. I found great joy imagining this as a centre for the visually impaired. A place of education, theatre, socialising, shopping, counselling, exercise and dining. An experiment into how all these tasks could be aided by design.
I coined this currently as Re:Newed with NCBI, as this is the name of NCBI's new shop.
When talking about this new retail unit CEO Chris White said “With Covid19 dominating 2020 it has been such a difficult year for everyone but Covid19 has also robbed people of their sense of touch, which is vital for people who are blind or vision impaired and has led to increased feelings of isolation and vulnerability. Covid19 led to the temporary closure of all our shops so Re:Newed for NCBI gives us another opportunity to ensure we can continue to support the 55,000 children and adults living with sight loss in Ireland in 2021 and beyond.”
In light of this remark re-Covid19 and it's challenges, I felt this is the time when Ireland should be considering such a building to celebrate and encourage the work of this organisation. As a result I spoke with CEO Chris White and arranged a meeting on 25/2/2021. I hope to discuss their thoughts on such a centre and learn more about the organisations work and facilities.
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