Universal Design 2.0

IDSA is thrilled to announce a dynamic panel discussion on Universal Design, featuring trailblazing experts from the worlds of fashion and beauty, tech, home, healthcare, and more. These leaders have reshaped their industries by integrating Universal Design, Disability Inclusion, and DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) into their work.

1 in 4 Americans lives with a disability, yet most products, spaces, and services are still not designed with them in mind. The truth is, all of us experience situations where products and experiences don’t align with our abilities. Forward-thinking businesses that recognize this gap and prioritize disability inclusion are not only leading with empathy—they’re unlocking powerful opportunities for innovation, competitive advantage, and solutions that benefit everyone.

Smart Design’s groundbreaking work with OXO Good Grips turned Universal Design into a competitive advantage and a $500M category-leading business in the 1990s. That revolution continues today: Michael Graves + Pottery Barn have launched stylish universal furniture lines, and Victoria’s Secret has debuted an inclusive lingerie collection celebrating bodies of all abilities. Designers are reimagining the social impact of their work, leveraging breakthroughs in materials science, manufacturing, affordable sensors, motors, and lean-AI models to create experiences that dynamically adapt to and enhance human ability.

Panelists:

• Rob Van Varick, Chief Design Officer, Michael Graves Design
• Mindy Scheier, CEO, Gamut Management; Founder, Runway of Dreams Foundation
• Richard Whitehall, Executive Director & Partner, Smart Design
• Anders Berggreen, Cofounder, byACRE

Moderator:

• Estela Lugo, Director of Program Development, Hereditary Neuropathy Foundation

Why Attend?

• Learn from leaders who have successfully embedded accessibility into their business models
• Understand the social and economic value of designing for all
• Discover how Universal Design can help you access new markets and build long-term customer loyalty
• Connect with others dedicated to making inclusion a core standard of great design

The future of design is inclusive, practical, and accessible, with thoughtful technology integration elevating these values.

Join us at NYCxDESIGN Week and be part of this vital conversation!