We are proud to announce that TapCreative has won the Universal Design Award at the Institute of Designers in Ireland (IDI) Awards 2024 for our redesign of Petmania. This prestigious award, presented by the Centre for Excellence in Universal Design (CEUD), recognises outstanding projects that prioritise accessibility and inclusivity for all users.
The project, which reimagined the Petmania retail experience, was driven by a deep understanding of their customers’ needs. Our team developed a design strategy that combines functionality, inclusivity, and aesthetics to ensure every customer, regardless of ability, feels welcome and engaged in the space
What is Universal Design?
Universal Design is an approach to creating products and environments that are usable by everyone, regardless of their age, ability, or background. It involves designing with the goal of making spaces more accessible and enjoyable for people of all abilities, without requiring specialised adaptations. Universal Design is about breaking down barriers—ensuring that environments are welcoming and functional for everyone, whether they have physical disabilities, limited mobility, or other challenges.
Our Approach to Universal Design at Petmania
In our redesign of Petmania, we applied Universal Design principles to create a shopping environment that is intuitive, comfortable, and accessible for all customers. This involved:
- Enhanced Navigation: Clearer pathways and signage make it easier for all customers to navigate the store.
- Improved Accessibility: Features such as wider aisles and well-placed displays ensure that everyone, including those with mobility impairments, can enjoy the space.
- Comfortable Environment: Thoughtful design choices ensure that the space feels welcoming and usable for customers of all ages and abilities.
By integrating Universal Design, we not only created a more inclusive Petmania store but also set a new standard for accessibility in retail.
A Huge Thank You
Representing TapCreative on the night, Peeraya and Diego were delighted to accept the award on behalf of the team. We are thrilled to have received this recognition, and we want to extend a special thank you to our talented team, whose creativity and dedication made this project a success. Their hard work and passion for inclusive design have helped set Petmania apart as a leader in accessible retail environments. A huge thank you to Petmania for trusting us with this exciting project, and congratulations to all the other winners and nominees at this year’s IDI Awards.
At TapCreative, we are committed to continuing our work in Universal Design and creating experiences that are accessible to everyone. We believe that good design should be inclusive, and we look forward to helping more brands create spaces that can be enjoyed by all customers.
Want to learn more about how Universal Design can benefit your business? Let’s connect and explore how we can help you create more inclusive and accessible experiences for your customers.
