The project offers a public, well-equipped center designed to facilitate interaction among all stakeholders in the city’s development. La Firul Ierbii/Grasroots is a pilot civic community space serving both the city and the neighborhood, with plans to evolve into a local civic forum and a model for community engagement and mobilization.

As this center is intended to be a hub for debate and dialogue, our role was to assist the main designers (Wolfhouse Productions) in creating an inclusive environment. We analyzed their proposals, organized focus groups with diverse users, and contributed to the design and implementation of accessibility solutions. Currently, the center also serves as AMAIS’ headquarters.

The space can host a variety of projects and activities, including debates, workshops, meetings, focus groups, plays and exhibitions. Therefore, it features multifunctional, modular furniture that provides flexibility. Ensuring accessibility for individuals with diverse disabilities was a key consideration, as the space is intended for community activities and must accommodate a wide range of users.

The accessibility solutions were designed in accordance with the Romanian Normative NP051 and supplemented with information from Barrier-Free Design: Principles, Planning, and Examples, aligning with accessibility requirements in the U.S.

The process differed from inclusive design as it involved strictly adhering to accessibility regulations and adapting an existing project. While the adaptations are noticeable, efforts were made to ensure that the changes were not perceived as solely benefiting individuals with disabilities. For instance, maps were designed as inclusive tools that provide information to all visitors. Collaboration with Wolfhouse Productions design team has led to numerous events at La Firul Ierbii, accommodating people with permanent or temporary disabilities, the elderly, children, and more.