Designing AS People – and leaving no one behind

 How do we create designs that not only include more people – but fundamentally rethink who design is for? This question is at the heart of Yanki Lee’s new publication Designing AS People – Beyond Ableism, Practising Universal Design Otherwise, launching in spring 2026.  

The book marks a significant step in strengthening Universal, Social and Inclusive Design at Kolding School of Design in close collaboration with the Bevica Foundation.  

The publication introduces the framework of designing for, with, by and as people and gathers insights from research projects, student work and reflective essays from Danish and international contributors.  

Since 2021, Yanki Lee has worked closely with staff and students to embed Universal Design (UD) as an integral part of the school’s academic profile. This has led to participation in the Bevica Scholarship Programme, the establishment of the Universal Design Awards, and the development of teaching courses and workshops that challenge traditional understandings of design practice.  

- Universal Design is not just about accessibility. It’s about developing a practice grounded in a deep awareness of human diversity and shared responsibility, says Yanki Lee, PhD.  

At the Bevica Foundation, the collaboration is seen as an important step in anchoring Universal Design within design education:  

- Kolding School of Design shows how Universal Design can be integrated into teaching, research and practice. This is crucial if we are to create a more inclusive society through design, says Camilla Ryhl, PhD, Research Director at the Bevica Foundation and Head of Universal Design Hub.  

She also highlights the methodological contribution of the publication:

- In her book Yanki Lee doesn’t only provide a thorough presentation of what Universal Design is and offers, but more importantly she presents a methodology of Universal Design. A methodology grounded in a deep understanding of the concept as well as her own and Kolding School of Design’s extensive experience teaching and practicing socially responsive design practices. This book is a must read for anyone who wishes to incorporate Universal Design in their own practice. 

With renewed support from the Bevica Foundation, the collaboration is further strengthened. The ambition is clear: Universal Design should not be a separate track – but a fundamental approach to design education, research and practice.  

The launch of Designing AS People at Kolding School of Design on 16 April will therefore be both an academic celebration and a recognition that social and inclusive design is central to the school’s strategic development.  

The event takes place on 16 April at 4-5PM in Kolding School of Design's Auditorium.