As part of preparations for the tactile paving workshop I made some scale tactile models of possible tactile paving configurations for common contexts. I felt that these tactile models would be much easier for participants to understand than traditional tactile diagrams as they would include the actual level changes.
Having experienced first hand the gap between discussing street design features in context and attempting to do it sitting down inside, I was keen to make sure we had the best possible tools to avoid misunderstandings and cross purposes.
The models were well received and I got a request to make more by the Transport for London (TfL) cycle team for some consultation events they were running on tactile paving on cycle infrastructure.
Again these proved popular so a further set were produced specifically addressing crossing design at bus stop bypasses. As well as kerbs and tactile paving these models also included items of street furniture held in place by magnets to avoid damage and aid transport and storage.
With every iteration we have made we have refined the process using a combination of 3D printing, hand craft techniques and sometimes vacuum forming to achieve high quality models that are robust and light enough to be useful in large meetings and cost effective. Please get in touch if you need some to aid a consultation or co-design project.
