Juliane Morel
About the Resident
French Resident
April 15 – June 15, 2024
Socially Oriented Solutions Designer
Design Resident Juliane Morel is an independent designer of socially oriented solutions. She graduated in 2019 with a double master’s degree in design – from the École Nationale Supérieure d’Art & Design Nancy and the Mines de Nancy engineering school – achieving high honors.
Her approach to design falls on the border between products and services; as this hybrid focus enables her to propose innovative, and yet unobtrusive, solutions for enriching various social contexts. With a strong passion for inclusiveness, particularly in early childhood, she strives to use her design practice as a tool to promote diverse equality within education.
In 2022, Juliane worked with Hachette Education to develop an educational kit aimed at raising awareness of gender stereotypes among young children. Currently, she collaborates with the Artémisia Association by producing multiple educational games – subsidized by the Fondation de France – which aims to illuminate the dynamics of gender inequality; via the promotion of inspiring female role models.
Presented in partnership with Villa Albertine and ENSAD Nancy. Supported by the Bettencourt Schueller Foundation
Residency Project
“My various projects centered around gender issues, particularly in education, have demonstrated the need for a designer working on complex social themes – to create tangible expertise around this subject. During my residency at the Villa Albertine, I plan to create a network of leading professionals; to explore sensory sensitivities related to the experiences of neurodivergent children (autism spectrum, ADHD, dyslexia, OCD, etc.).
Since the 1940s, researchers in neuroscience, and psychology, have been able to highlight that many of these profiles have a particular way of experiencing the world via a different sensorial plane. Whether linked to vision, hearing, smell, touch, taste, or the perception of space, these individuals have a unique approach to deconstructing the objects, and spaces, that surround them.
Therefore, sensory-driven experimentation through play represents a key element of their upbringing. By bringing sensoriality to the forefront of my creative process, I wish to create tools that will enable inclusive, and innovative, teaching methods.
They will aim to invite neuroatypical children to experiment with matter and space – to develop new ways of learning, and playing, which are adapted to their needs. And what better place to start than in the heart of progress? Whether through elite healthcare establishments, leading research centers in psychiatry and neuroscience, or extensive inclusion programs, the New York area offers numerous opportunities for research, observation, lively discussions, and testing prototypes in real conditions.
Additionally, this project also aims to invite all types of children to experience their environment in a new light; by highlighting the potentially enriching effects of developing novel perspectives via the “a-typical” utilization of one’s senses.”
Juliane’s Experience
What was your main objective with this residency in New York? Do you feel you achieved it?
JM: My main objective was to explore the city’s approach to supporting neurodiversity and creating inclusive programs and environments. This residency allowed me to meet with specialists in health, education, architecture, and design, which enabled me to create a valuable network and significantly enhance my knowledge in this field.
I am pleased to say that I achieved my objective. The insights and connections I developed during my residency now empower me to address these complex issues with innovative, design-oriented solutions. I am eager to apply this enriched perspective to ongoing and future projects in France and Luxembourg, and I would love to return to New York to implement some of these projects, bringing my work full circle.
Could you share what inspired you to focus your design practice on neurodivergent children?
JM: My work has always been rooted in addressing social challenges. Initially, I focused on educational products to raise awareness about gender equality, while simultaneously being drawn to themes of diversity and inclusivity in healthcare design.
During a conversation with a woman on the autism spectrum, she shared recent research about the significant impact of sensory differences on neurodivergent children. These sensory distractions often lead to difficulties in their development, challenging the common belief that communication and social issues are solely due to autism itself. Instead, many of these issues arise because sensory distractions interfere with their ability to focus and interact.
This insight highlighted to me the significant role that design, particularly in addressing sensory issues, plays in creating inclusive environments and products that accommodate the diverse needs of all children in their development.
What was the most exciting and unexpected discovery you made during your time here?
JM: The most exciting and unexpected discovery I made during my time here was how my initial goal of creating inclusive and universal design workshops, spaces, and objects for neuroatypical individuals transformed. Initially, I aimed to address their special sensory needs. However, I soon realized that their unique experiences and heightened awareness of their surroundings could serve as crucial expertise in the design process.
What insights did you gain about sensory sensitivities related to neurodivergent children in New York, and how do you plan to incorporate these insights into your future projects?
JM: I gained valuable insights into sensory sensitivities, related to neurodivergent children in New York, through various sources and individuals:
Research on neurodevelopment: Meetings with the Child Study Center at Yale highlighted the specific sensory needs of neuroatypical children and how these impact their development. I also learned how the clinical world could benefit from design interventions on tools, enhancing both therapeutic and everyday experiences for these children.
Designers and architects working on inclusive spaces: I learned about the significance of sensory aspects in creating adaptable environments. These experts stressed the importance of designing places of refuge and offering choices that allow individuals to adjust their surroundings to meet their sensory needs.
Overall, these experiences reminded me of the importance of involving neurodivergent individuals early in the design process. It’s not just about the end result but also about fostering dialogue and collaboration to create truly inclusive designs.