At Made by Boto®, we believe design isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about belonging. This year’s QIP Mardi Gras event was a vivid reminder of how space, language, and symbols shape people’s sense of being seen and respected. We were honoured to showcase our QIP x MBB® Pride Collection and capture a series of short video interviews with community members, each offering personal reflections on what inclusive signage means to them — and how even small changes in design can have profound effects. QIP interviews about the effects of inclusive signage on everyday people Why it matters The QIP Mardi Gras event was more than a celebration; it was a call to action. It showed how inclusive design can shift culture from performative gestures to lived belonging. Whether it’s a door plate, a directional arrow, or a digital display, every detail communicates: Do you belong here? Are you safe? Were you considered? At Made by Boto®, we’re proud to collaborate with communities like QIP to co-create signage systems that embody dignity, visibility, and care. Events like Mardi Gras remind us that inclusion isn’t just a principle — it’s a practice, shaped by design choices we make every day. View the Queers in Property x Made by Boto® Pride Collection. Learn more about QIP: Queers in Property QIP Linkedin QIP Facebook QIP Instagram

Meet Eva, founder of Studio Z and the innovative new venture, Signage Made by Boto®. With a background in product design and interior architecture, Eva brings a global perspective and deep passion for creating inclusive and accessible spaces. Portrait picture of Eva Krane by Ken Friberg Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do? My name is Eva. I grew up in a rural area of Northern (West-)Germany in the 80s. I spent my childhood playing baseball, soccer, and ice hockey with my two older brothers and their friends. My Mum was a chef, and my Dad was a mechanic turned engineer. Our family had an amazing workshop and were often building or repairing things together. I loved the process of creating so, when I decided to study product design and interior architecture in the Netherlands, it seemed like a natural progression to my hands-on childhood of dreaming, designing, creating, and making. I was quite an adventurer in my 20s and traveled extensively. My wanderlust took me to live in the south of France, London, and Los Angeles before finding myself at home in Sydney. Every place has unique features, similarities and differences in people and culture. I also love language and how certain words only exist in certain places. I am fascinated by how meaning is influenced by context, an individual’s lived experience, and the interpretations we put onto meaning. I have had my design studio, Studio Z, for 8 years. We provide custom-made products to the architectural industry. The products we design include signage, glazing film, custom handwoven rugs, fabrics, and wallcoverings, mostly for the commercial sector. All products are made to order, and most are locally manufactured. Architects can specify a pattern from our existing library or commission us to create something bespoke for a specific project. I also advise on regulations and optimising wayfinding through my products and designs. We release a new collection annually, the inspiration can come from anywhere but usually from areas I am passionate about including literature, philosophy, nature, and society at large. The patterns translate narrative into visual stories and signage assists in the delivery of it all. I am especially interested in themes that cover belonging, psychology, and societal structures, how people experience space and the way certain elements can contribute to exclusion rather than being inclusive and welcoming to all. I saw an opportunity for a product that could improve the experience of some of our more vulnerable groups of people… this is how my new business, ‘Signage Made by Boto®’ was conceived. All Gender Toilet Signage - Capsule Shape and Sun base How did you become passionate about designing signage that balances accessibility with aesthetics? Well, I didn’t wake up one day thinking, ‘Yes, I’ll become a toilet signage designer’! It was a journey. Throughout my travels around the world, I found myself taking pictures of signage solutions at airports, train stations, museums, restaurants, libraries, and educational institutions. Often what was missing was design orientated but what stood out was the lack of inclusion in design, especially for minorities and non-binary recognition. It took me years, the encouragement of many people, and situations along the way to navigate the way-finding space. Standard signage currently available in Australia is often an afterthought or a last-minute inclusion – a regulatory box that needs to be ticked. I’ve seen signage being taken down after the DDA inspections, which is not only un-ethical but also unlawful. More inclusive terminology and symbology can influence tolerance by giving subtle hints on how we relate to each other and move through the world. My life experience has led me to have encounters with a great cross-section of people. People of mixed abilities, cultural differences, and gender diversity in particular. I have had close friends who have gone through gender transitioning, their journey has given me insights into the vulnerable moments that can arise, especially in public spaces. I wanted to create beautiful signage solutions to be proud of, not an afterthought. Our signage packages are beautiful, easy to specify (or order online), inclusive, and make people of all abilities and backgrounds feel welcome. Universal design principles aim to create products, environments and services that are welcoming and usable by the most diverse range of people. This is the goal of Signage Made by Boto®. Safe Space Signage in Classic and Carbon base What challenges you as a creative? I find closed-minded attitudes challenging. Conservatism, misogyny, judgemental or narrow-minded people and groups. People who avoid curiosity and are unwilling to join the journey, change perspective, and take the lead on a new idea. I believe in kindness, inclusion, and that we are all equal. Every challenge is an opportunity to make a difference. My goal is to shed light on blind spots in myself and others. I recently came across a statistic that 83% of female migrant women in the construction industry have experienced sexual harassment. What a chilling number and hindrance to retaining talent and creating a diverse workforce. How on earth can we tackle the big issues, like global warming and the polarisation of societies, when we can’t live and work peacefully together? Overall, Sydney is a great example of a peaceful multicultural society, but we can always do better and set a precedent for other countries at the same time. With Boto, I’d like to develop signage pieces that tackle these issues. Another challenge is the notion of quick and fast in the design industry, without much consideration for the long-term consequences on people, places, and the planet. Providing quality products with competitive pricing whilst focussing on local manufacturing is a long-term strategy. I truly believe this is attractive for our community and civic institutions especially. With such diverse sectors as retail, health, education, and workplace, how do you adapt your design strategy to each unique setting? Whilst there are common aspects to signage and way-finding across these sectors, each project requires a slightly different strategy which is refined to suit the project and audience. Terminology and design are influenced by the type of building, its location, and the people navigating the space. In multicultural settings, language and symbology may be a big factor, in a cultural facility or especially in hospitality settings, the tone of voice and playfulness of the design may be more pressing. In health and aged living it’s a lot more about functionality and ease of navigation. Education can be nurturing or informative to underpin the institution’s values and connection to Country. I’d love to work on more projects where we can expand on language and understanding and inclusion of the longest-living culture in the world, whilst I also see opportunities in the multi-cultural sector and mixed abilities realm. Neurodiversity is also an interesting area where I believe we will see much change in the coming years. Quiet spaces or hours of operation have already become popular in supermarkets and this is also affecting the workspace and the entertainment industries. Waste and Kitchen Tactile Signage in Capsule shape and Carbon base Can you talk us through your creative process? International, local, and societal research from a variety of sources including words and visuals assists me to form a concept. I am not very process-driven, but I think deeply about ideas, designs, products, and the why. Guided by intuition as well as integrating what a project needs, rather than what the client wants. Often the result is a bit of both 😉 On a more personal level, I went through a period of a few years when I questioned almost everything I was doing. I was looking for deeper meaning in my work and my life. With the help of mentors, friends, and therapists I was able to define my values and goals which has led me to create a platform that allows me to connect with people who share my values and create a safe community for myself at the same time. Having experienced emotional neglect, harassment, and serious sexual assault has given me insights into trauma-informed decision-making and has motivated me to create long-lasting change. I believe that the work we choose wholeheartedly will give us meaning and become an integral part of our lives and extended identity. Here is to creating safe environments for generations to come! What has been your biggest influence (person or experience) career-wise to date? That’s a tough one. I can’t pinpoint one person or experience as I believe that we are a product of our environment and that a career is not linear. I am inspired by history and literature that focus on achievements by women and LGBTQIA+ people, psychology, and philosophy. I am fascinated by the story of the physicist and mathematician Mileva Marić, Albert Einstein’s first wife. Her contributions to the theories published under her husband’s name and the unfortunate reality of not being recognised at the time. The poetry of Rupi Kaur and Audre Lorde gives my soul a place to dwell. The work of XYX Lab at Monash University is an incredible resource for anyone looking into gender-sensitive design practices and theory. They make spatial inequity visible in creative and informative ways. Philanthropist Judith Nealson who offers Sydneysiders free entry to the White Rabbit Gallery and Phoenix, what a hero! Marina Abramovic and her performances make us think about the human condition. International thought leaders Teal Swan, Brenee Brown, Gabor Maté, and young activists Chanel Contos and Sarah Williams. These are the kind of people I look up to and their work has greatly influenced my thinking and the choices I’ve made thus far. I have reached a point where the boundaries between career and personal interests have blended with no clear distinction between them currently. When we make space for personality in our workplaces, respect for diversity and different perspectives and lifestyles can flourish and we open ourselves up to be influenced by wonderful people from all walks of life around us. This Interview was originally published by the Design Show in January 2025 , the questions were formulated by Betty Yeung .

Interview with Storm Hassett on Gender-Affirming Design At Made by Boto®, we believe design is never neutral. The way spaces are shaped — and the way people move through them — communicates care, safety, and belonging. For transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse communities, design choices can have profound impacts, especially in healthcare environments where affirmation is vital. I had the privilege of speaking with  Storm Hassett , Director of the Gender Identity Clinic, who is at the forefront of gender-affirming healthcare in Australia. Storm shares how the built environment and design can reinforce dignity, reduce anxiety, and ensure that every person feels recognised and respected when accessing care. Storm Hassett, Director of The Identity Clinic Your clinic plays a critical role in supporting transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse people. How do you see the built environment — especially signage — influencing a person’s sense of safety and affirmation when accessing services? I know what it feels like to walk into spaces and feel like you do not belong. Growing up in foster care, in homes that were volatile and unsafe, there were nights my little brother and I literally slept outside waiting for a door that never opened. That feeling of invisibility stays with you. At The Identity Clinic, we want every sign, every door, every wall to send the opposite message: you belong here, you are safe here, you matter.  Signage is more than practical, it is emotional. Seeing yourself reflected, even in the smallest detail, can soften the weight of anxiety and remind you that you are not alone. In healthcare settings, wayfinding can either reduce or heighten anxiety. What principles do you believe should guide signage design in gender-affirming spaces? For me, the guiding principles are clarity, neutrality, and affirmation. Confusing directions do not just get you lost, they make you feel disoriented and unseen. Neutrality means signage does not assume or exclude anyone. And affirmation is about small but intentional cues such as pronouns respected, inclusive symbols, and language that does not pathologise identity. At The Identity Clinic, wayfinding is never just about getting from point A to B. It is about saying we see you, we thought of you, and you belong here. Lived experience is central to your work. How does your team ensure that the voices, values, and needs of the community are reflected in every touchpoint of the clinic, from intake to the physical space? I grew up protecting my siblings before I ever really knew what safety felt like. That shaped everything about who I am. At The Identity Clinic, every single person on our team is queer and neurodivergent. We do not theorise about what affirming care should look like, we live it. From intake forms to waiting rooms, we design with the knowledge of what it feels like to be misgendered, dismissed, or made invisible. And we are always listening to our community, co-designing and adapting. Our clinic is not just for the community, it is the community. Beyond inclusive language, how can behaviour and visual design communicate gender-affirming care without reinforcing stereotypes? Stereotypes cut deep. Too often people are expected to look or act a certain way to be “valid.” At our clinic, we work hard to ensure design and behaviour do not put anyone into boxes. That means no pink and blue binaries, no tokenistic rainbow branding that feels performative. Instead, we lean into behaviour such as asking pronouns every time, never assuming, and listening deeply. Visual design should be a doorway that opens possibilities, not one that limits them. Cognitive and sensory accessibility is often overlooked in signage. How might clinics like yours benefit from designs that also consider neurodiverse individuals and people with mixed abilities? As a neurodivergent-run clinic, this is not abstract for us, it is personal. Harsh lights, cluttered spaces, or walls of overwhelming text can shut people out before they have even reached a clinician. We focus on sensory-friendly colour palettes, clear fonts, and simple, accessible symbols. That kind of design reduces overwhelm. It helps neurodiverse folks feel held, and honestly, it makes the environment better for everyone. Accessibility is not an afterthought, it is the heartbeat of belonging. Do you see opportunities for healthcare providers to collaborate with design studios like Made by Boto® to co-create signage and wayfinding systems that reflect lived experience? Absolutely. Healthcare cannot hold this responsibility alone. When we collaborate with design studios, we are able to pair affirming clinical care with creative environments that feel intentional and safe. When design meets lived experience, dignity is the outcome. Doors, signage, and spaces become more than functional, they become invitations. Partnerships like this are how we build futures where our community does not just survive, but thrives. Many people accessing gender-affirming healthcare have faced environments that feel clinical or alienating. What small but powerful changes in design or otherwise have you seen make the biggest difference? It is often the small things that create the biggest sigh of relief. An intake form that asks for chosen name and pronouns. A waiting room wall covered in art made by queer creators. Even lighting that is softer and more welcoming. I have watched people’s shoulders drop just from those cues. To some, they might seem minor. But when you have spent your life being rejected or erased, those little affirmations mean the world. Looking ahead, what does your vision of an ideal gender-affirming healthcare environment look like, and what elements are most crucial to help bring that to life? My vision is simple: a place where no one feels alone, unsafe, or unseen. A clinic where design, language, and care work together to hold people in joy and safety. Where every sign whispers you are valid,  every wall says you belong,  and every interaction reinforces we are with you.  The most important ingredient is not a material one, it is intention. If we keep our community at the centre of every decision, the environment itself becomes an act of care and affirmation. Storm’s perspective reminds us that inclusive design is not just about accessibility or compliance — it is about care. Every choice, from the words on a door to the colour of a wall, has the power to affirm identity and restore dignity. At Made by Boto®, we are proud to collaborate with leaders like Storm to create signage and wayfinding systems that reflect lived experience and foster environments where everyone belongs. Links for more info below. The Identity Clinic Storm Hassett on Linkedin

Conversations with Shai Habet , by Eva Krane Over a year ago, I was chatting with my friend Shai, an expert in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and human-centered design. As we often do, we found ourselves discussing systems, safety, and the subtle ways design can either support people or fail them. He shared a story that truly resonated with me: a national public awareness campaign in Israel that successfully reduced rates of sexual harassment on public transport. The method? Simple signage in buses. It was a straightforward yet strategic approach – placing vital information in everyday environments, primarily public transportation. This was crucial because public transport, particularly for women and young people, had often been reported as unsafe. The campaign worked because it understood how people navigate public spaces. It met them where they were, quietly offering help without drawing unnecessary attention or creating shame. That moment stuck with me. It reframed something I had taken for granted: that signage could do more than guide – it could care . It could offer clarity, dignity, and access in ways we often overlook. That conversation with Shai planted the seed that eventually became Made by Boto® . It reminded me that meaningful change doesn't always start big; it often begins with noticing what's missing and choosing to build something better. To Shai – thank you for your insight, your work, and your belief in what design can achieve when it truly centers people. Shai Habet and Eva Krane - Photography by Ken Friberg | IG @ fashion.fr i berg Here are Shai's insights on design, systems, and fostering a sense of belonging: You shared a story about a signage campaign on buses in Tel Aviv that helped reduce sexual harassment. What was it about that initiative that stood out to you as powerful or effective? It’s often the simple gestures that make the biggest difference . We basically communicated the law through stickers, but the effect was huge. By placing these stickers, bus companies clearly communicated their zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment. Bus drivers also underwent awareness training on how to respond and assist passengers. As a result, passengers knew that if something happened, they weren't the ones who had to leave the bus. There were clear actions that bus drivers, alongside the police, would take to keep everyone safe. This is the power of signage – it establishes the norm . Speaking of simple actions, it’s similar in corporate environments. During my time working at a large non-profit in Sydney, we ran a pronouns campaign. Without any explicit intention, we suddenly noticed that an optional pronoun field had been automatically added to email signatures. We didn't have a large campaign or anything, but people just started adding it to their emails – either to share their own pronouns or to show support. The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive. People felt seen, allies found a simple way to show support and respect, and clients felt they were interacting with an organization that prioritized its people. This shows that awareness can build everything . From your perspective, what role can public information and signage play in creating safer, more equitable spaces? We often say, " You can't be what you can't see ," highlighting the importance of role models. It's essential in all aspects of life to see yourself reflected in someone else to achieve your goals or to break barriers and pave the way for others. This concept also applies to public safety and information. When designing a city or workplace, it must genuinely reflect the accessibility needs of everyone. If it doesn’t, you risk excluding those who are not part of the majority. This principle extends to signage, which conveys volumes about the intention of a space and the people who are welcome there. Signage often establishes the norm  and is frequently used to raise awareness. In the campaign we ran, we simply quoted the law, letting people know that if they've been harassed or feel uncomfortable, we want to hear from them, as there are laws in place to protect them. This approach empowers individuals through awareness. What does “inclusive design” mean to you, especially beyond the visual or architectural lens?   For me, inclusive design means enabling accessibility, innovation, and diversity in all aspects . Professionally, I integrate inclusive design into everything I do, whether in DEI initiatives or business strategy. One method that has gained recognition in recent years is Design Thinking , also known as Human-Centered Design. This approach has been around for years, focusing on understanding the voices of people and the ecosystem, and clearly defining a problem statement to support sustainable change. It has been a key strategy in drafting and designing policy changes for purpose-driven organizations and government. In recent years, Design Thinking has expanded to all professions, from product design to various other fields. Ultimately, it’s about people . How do you approach systems change in your work—especially when the systems feel slow or resistant?   With a lot of humility and active listening . Change takes time, and understanding a system or culture takes even more time. Resistance is natural, but the biggest mistake is to label late adopters as a resistant force or to create an 'us' versus 'them' mechanism. Change is natural; it’s happening all the time, there’s no one day like the other. However, change is hard. We are creatures of habit. When approaching change, you first need to understand the status quo , both the good and the bad. Use data, and remember that data isn't only numbers; it's also hearing people through focus groups, one-on-one conversations, and more. Investigate and become an expert on the status quo. Then ask yourself – where do I want to reach? What are my goals? Set a clear end goal, and it's even better if it's measurable. The one common ground for all is to take people on the journey with you . The people who initially resist the change will probably be your most valuable voices. Understand where they are coming from and what insights they can offer. They will join the journey and will likely become your biggest force for change. What excites you most about the work being done in accessibility, design justice, or inclusive placemaking right now?   The increasing focus on lived experience voices . This is a game-changer – the deep understanding that change happens from the ground up and that the experience and knowledge of lived experience voices are central to designing sustainable and people-fit solutions. Boto excites me; it's a perfect example of listening to the community, considering its representation and the places we inhabit, and designing a solution that is innovative, collaborative, and represents more than the current signage designed years ago. What advice would you give to someone wanting to embed care and equity into their company or the built environment, even in small ways?   It isn’t a sprint; it’s a journey, and in this journey, strong leadership is the key . Culture change takes time. Any sudden, quick change won’t last long. Your people are part of this journey, and as such, they need to contribute to the change and be part of the process. Strong leadership paves the way – it showcases commitment to the team members' well-being and is very clear about the why . The "why" for the company, for the team, and for the individual. What are the aspects that people often overlook in the DEI space?   Pragmatism. Data. Clear success metrics.  Use data to measure diversity and inclusion, and people's sentiment – psychological safety. Every impactful and results-oriented strategy has a clear plan and metrics to indicate where we are. This enables us to quantify the impact but also to make changes and adjustments to achieve the business goals we aim for. DEI is no different; when making a business decision, it's core to have a clear business case and understand how we know we are reaching the impact we want. It’s simply a part of the journey. Where do you see DEI and your work headed in the coming years? What/who are the big change makers in this industry?   I believe DEI is evolving from a standalone initiative to becoming fully integrated into core business strategy and operations . It's moving beyond just compliance or a "nice-to-have" and proving its direct link to innovation, talent retention, and financial performance. The big change-makers are those who successfully demonstrate this tangible business value  through data-driven insights and by empowering authentic lived experiences  at every level of an organization. I also see a greater emphasis on intersectionality, recognizing that individuals hold multiple identities and face unique challenges. The focus will be on creating truly inclusive systems, not just programs. Who/What would be your ideal client/project, and where would you like to make your mark in our community?   My ideal client or project would be one that is genuinely committed to transformative systems change , willing to engage deeply with human-centered design principles, and understands that true equity is a long-term investment. I'm passionate about projects that bridge the gap between policy and daily lived experience, particularly in urban planning, public services, or large-scale organizational culture shifts. Ultimately, I want to make a mark by fostering environments where every individual feels a profound sense of belonging and agency , where design actively contributes to safety, dignity, and access for all members of the community. Some signs point the way, and others quietly change it. This conversation with Shai reminded me that design isn’t only about function — it’s about care. It’s about creating moments where someone feels safer, seen, and part of the space they’re in. From a bus in Tel Aviv to the walls of our own communities, these small acts can shift the culture around us. Shai’s work continues to inspire how I think about belonging in the built environment. You can follow his journey here: LinkedIn – Shai Habet .

A submission to Parliament At Made by Boto®, we believe signage is more than a wayfinding tool — it’s a silent but powerful statement about who belongs. Our founder, Eva Krane, recently submitted a proposal to Parliament recommending changes to the National Construction Code to make our shared spaces more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Here is a breakdown of what was proposed: 1. From “Unisex” to “All- Gender”: A Language of Belonging The term “Unisex” has become outdated and can be confusing or exclusionary, particularly for people who do not identify within the gender binary. Updating terminology to “All-Gender” communicates more clearly and respectfully that the space is available for use by anyone, regardless of their gender identity. For transgender and non-binary individuals, inclusive signage is not just about access — it’s about safety and recognition. Shifting to “All-Gender” is a small but powerful change that fosters dignity and reduces the anxiety many feel when navigating public or shared amenities. 2. Gender Diversity Welcome Statement on Binary Toilet Signage While many buildings continue to provide separate female and male toilet facilities, it is both possible and important to signal that gender diversity is welcome and recognised in these spaces. A simple, clear welcome statement can be added to binary signage or on a plaque at the entryway to help ensure all individuals — including non-binary, transgender, gender-fluid, and gender- nonconforming people — feel seen, respected, and safe. This is especially crucial in environments where architectural or regulatory constraints currently prevent the introduction of all-gender facilities. Example statement: “We recognise that gender exists beyond a binary. Please use the facility that feels safest and most appropriate for you.” This kind of message does not disrupt the existing layout or compromise safety, but it sends a powerful signal of inclusion and respect. It acknowledges that while the physical structure may remain traditional, the social and cultural environment is evolving to reflect the realities of the people who use it. Why It Matters: • For many transgender and non-binary people, choosing which toilet to use can be a source of anxiety or fear. • A welcome statement affirms that gender diversity is valid, discrimination is not tolerated, and autonomy is respected. • It supports legal protections, health outcomes, and broader public wellbeing by reducing exclusion and distress in everyday experiences. Even in settings where full all-gender facilities are not yet feasible, a well-placed, intentional message can bridge the gap and build a foundation for more inclusive design in the future. 3. Statement on the Use of Tactile Evacuation Plans and Signage in Public Buildings   Tactile evacuation plans and accessible signage are essential tools in creating safe and navigable public environments for people who are blind or vision-impaired. In emergency situations, the ability to understand exit routes, refuge areas, and building layouts can make a critical difference. For many, tactile maps and Braille signage are not optional — they are a matter of equal access and safety. Despite growing awareness of inclusive design, tactile evacuation plans remain inconsistently implemented across public spaces. When provided, they are often too high, overly complex, or missing key elements such as directional orientation, contrasting colours, or clear tactile indicators. To meet the needs of the vision-impaired community, tactile evacuation signage should be: • Located at an accessible height and placed at key decision points throughout a building • Designed with Braille and raised tactile elements that are legible and intuitively laid out • Aligned with national standards (e.g., AS1428.1) and inclusive of visual contrast for people with low vision • Maintained regularly to ensure accuracy and readability Incorporating these features helps ensure that all building users — regardless of ability — have the right to safety, autonomy, and confidence in emergency situations. Tactile evacuation plans are not simply a matter of compliance; they are a reflection of how seriously we take our collective responsibility to design for all. Public buildings must be places where no one is left behind — not in daily use, and not in an emergency. Tactile Wayfinding Elements 4. Rethinking the International Symbol of Access: Moving Beyond the 1968 Design   The International Symbol of Access (ISA)—the familiar blue-and-white wheelchair icon—has long served as a global marker of accessibility. While effective in its time, it reflects a narrow, mobility-focused view of disability that no longer aligns with contemporary understandings of inclusion. A growing number of advocates support a more dynamic version of the symbol: one that shows a person in motion, leaning forward in a wheelchair. This updated image conveys agency, independence, and participation, rather than passivity or limitation. A modernised ISA: • Promotes a more accurate and empowering representation of disability • Signals progress toward inclusive, equitable design • Reflects the diversity of lived experiences, beyond physical mobility needs Evolving this symbol isn’t just about design—it’s about shifting perceptions and making space for all people to feel seen, capable, and welcomed in the built environment. A refined International Symbol of Access (ISA) as part of our Submission 5. A Vision for a Refined ISA Inclusive Design for the Neurodiverse Community   A More Refined, Inclusive Approach Designing for neurodiverse people means moving beyond the wheelchair symbol and adopting a more holistic, inclusive design language that communicates a range of access features. This includes: New symbols or complementary icons that signal environments which are: • Low-sensory or sensory-adjustable (e.g. soft lighting, reduced noise, scent-free) • Wayfinding-friendly with simplified signage and visual schedules • Socially safe, indicating trained staff or quiet zones • Use of clear, easy-to-read signage with icons, high contrast, and visual consistency • Predictability and routine cues, which are essential for many autistic individuals navigating unfamiliar environments • Inclusion of calm spaces or quiet rooms in public buildings, schools, transport hubs, and workplaces, with clear wayfinding to these zones While the ISA remains important, it must no longer be seen as the sole marker of accessibility. The lived experiences of autistic people and those with sensory or cognitive disabilities deserve visibility and consideration through new symbols, better signage, and informed design responses. Designing with — not just for — Neurodiverse People Importantly, these solutions must be developed in consultation with neurodiverse individuals, to ensure that the environments we shape genuinely reflect their needs, preferences, and strengths. As our understanding of mixed ability becomes more nuanced, our public spaces must follow suit. It’s time to reimagine access — not just as physical entry, but as a feeling of being welcomed, understood, and supported. A Refined Approach to Accessibility Final Note Thank you for taking the time to engage with this article and submission. It is offered with care, experience, and a deep belief in the value of inclusive design for all members of our community. As a queer, neurodiverse founder, and someone for whom English is a third language, running a business in the design and built environment space comes with both unique challenges and meaningful opportunities. Creating accessible signage is not only a profession—it is a personal commitment to building environments where everyone feels seen, respected, and safe. All content, language, and design approaches presented in this submission are the original intellectual property of Boto Pty Ltd, unless otherwise referenced. This work is protected by copyright and shared in the spirit of collaboration and advocacy. Please credit appropriately when referencing or sharing. Your support of inclusive, minority-led businesses makes a real difference. Thank you for listening—and for taking part in the ongoing work of designing for dignity. View the original submission