11/03/2026
Emic and Etic—two beautiful words that were first introduced by the American linguist Kenneth L. Pike in 1954. Pike coined them to distinguish insider versus outsider perspectives in the study of languages and cultures, but they equally apply to the participatory design process, where outside expertise is blended with inside lived experience. This conceptual pairing consistently informs our approach to design, particularly when working with people who are living with different forms of cognitive impairment.
In this context, multiple studies have found that occupant involvement across all stages of the process—from briefing to post-occupancy analysis—produces more acceptable and adoptable environments, while also addressing equity and representation concerns.
For EBD projects, we develop flexible, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools for dyadic, face-to-face communication on each project. We invest the time needed to observe verbal and physical responses that result in a person-centred design outcome—one that supports instrumental activities of daily living.
On site at Rupanyup—where we are nearing completion on the new Aged Care wing for West Wimmera Health Services, with Nicholson Construction—current residents Zoltan, Arthur, and Janice were with caregivers Jo and Jojo, and Sreeja the Director of Nursing. In these photos, they are all providing final input on minor but important details at the completion of the rough-in stage.
