Designing Inclusive Museum Spaces: A Study on Spatial Strategies for Sensory Engagement and Accessibility for People with Visual, Auditory, and Physical Disability

Year : 2026 | Volume : 04 | Issue : 02 | Page : 82 94
By

Vedika Sharma,

Aftab H. Lokhandwala,

  1. Student, Department of Architecture, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) College of Architecture (BVDUCOA), Pune, Maharashtra, India
  2. Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) College of Architecture (BVDUCOA), Pune, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

Museums have evolved from conventional spaces of display into dynamic environments that promote learning, cultural exchange, and public engagement. Despite this transformation, many museum environments continue to present physical, sensory, and cognitive barriers that limit participation for individuals with visual, auditory, and physical disabilities. Inclusive museum design therefore requires a shift from accessibility as an added feature to accessibility as a fundamental design principle embedded within spatial experience. This research investigates architectural and spatial strategies that support sensory engagement and universal accessibility in museum environments. The study examines how circulation planning, sensory zoning, tactile wayfinding systems, lighting design, acoustic control, and multisensory exhibit formats can contribute to more inclusive visitor experiences. A mixed-method approach was adopted, combining literature review, case study analysis, observational findings, and evaluation of established inclusive environments such as Enabling Village, Singapore, and Nanjing Museum, China. Particular attention was given to the role of touch, sound, movement, and spatial sequencing in enhancing independent navigation and meaningful interaction for users with diverse abilities. The findings indicate that inclusive museum spaces are characterized by barrier-free circulation, multimodal interpretation systems, accessible information delivery, and sensory-rich environments that accommodate different modes of perception. The study further highlights the importance of integrating universal design principles during the earliest stages of planning rather than treating accessibility as a later intervention. By promoting equal participation, comfort, autonomy, and emotional well-being, inclusive design enriches the museum experience for all visitors. The research concludes with a set of practical recommendations intended to guide architects, designers, Curators, and institutions in creating museum environments that celebrate diversity, foster belonging, and support meaningful cultural engagement.

Keywords: Inclusive design, universal accessibility, multisensory architecture, museum design, sensory engagement, spatial strategies

[This article belongs to International Journal of Environmental Planning and Development Architecture ]

How to cite this article: Vedika Sharma, Aftab H. Lokhandwala. Designing Inclusive Museum Spaces: A Study on Spatial Strategies for Sensory Engagement and Accessibility for People with Visual, Auditory, and Physical Disability. International Journal of Environmental Planning and Development Architecture. 2026; 04(02):82-94.
How to cite this URL: Vedika Sharma, Aftab H. Lokhandwala. Designing Inclusive Museum Spaces: A Study on Spatial Strategies for Sensory Engagement and Accessibility for People with Visual, Auditory, and Physical Disability. International Journal of Environmental Planning and Development Architecture. 2026; 04(02):82-94. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/ijepda/article=2026/view=260731

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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 04
Issue 02
Received 27/05/2026
Accepted 23/07/2026
Published 30/07/2026
Publication Time 64 Days

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