A journal of lived experience with chronic pain, and how I am designing around it. Project Fresh Air documents the renovation of my personal home. In this renovation we are addressing the impact of climate change in Ottawa, Accessibility needs, and multi-generational living.
Start Here: Introduction
Update
A brief life update, and some thoughts on design research.
Outdoor Living
Why we added an outdoor living space instead of just extending the house. Creating a natural sanctuary in the middle of the city.
Accessible Entrance
Why add a ramp entrance to our home? How did we do it?
Sound Control
Why do I care about sound control in the house? And how can I mitigate it?
Climate Adaptation and “Outsulation”
Why we stripped our siding and re-built the whole exterior.
Micro-Extension, Massive Impact
The incredible impact of a 35 square foot micro-extension for accessibility.
Why I hired an Architect.
Why does someone trained in construction drawings hire someone. Teamwork is crucial!
Project Progress
Progress so far, including photos of some of the concerning holes we found in our walls!
Demolition
Demolition begins, and so much is uncovered!
Dialects of Invisible Disabilty
The language of invisible disability. What is a flare? brain fog? Why are we told to pace? How can pacing impact my day?