Navigating the Colorful World of Design with a Color Vision Deficiency
As someone with a color vision deficiency, I’ve always had a unique perspective on the world of design. It’s a perspective that’s at once challenging and rewarding, full of surprises and adaptations. You see, the industry I’ve chosen to dedicate my career to – web design and development – is one that relies heavily on color. And I, well, I don’t always see color the same way as my “normal” vision counterparts.
So, what is it like to be color blind and work in this industry? It’s a question I’ve pondered often, wondering how my life might have been different if I had the ability to perceive the full spectrum of hues. Would I have pursued a more design-oriented path, or would I have gravitated towards the technical side of things regardless? These are the kinds of thoughts that tend to pop into my head, a byproduct of constantly navigating a world that isn’t always built with people like me in mind.
As I’ve written about before, color vision deficiencies come in many forms, and they affect people in vastly different ways. For me, it’s not that I can’t see colors at all – I can see them, just not as clearly or distinctly as someone with “normal” color vision. Certain shades tend to blend together, making it harder for me to differentiate between them.
But you know what? That’s not as much of a hindrance as you might think. In fact, I’d argue that my unique perspective has actually benefited me in my career. During design meetings, I’m able to quickly point out areas where we need to reconsider our color palette. When reviewing layouts, I can explain why we need to evaluate how – and if – we’re only conveying information through the use of color.
You see, when you can see a wider range of colors, it’s easy to overlook those issues because they’re functionally invisible in the moment. But when you have someone on the team who experiences the world a bit differently, it opens up a whole new realm of considerations. And that’s where I come in.
Debunking Myths and Misconceptions
One of the most common misconceptions about color blindness is that it means someone can’t see any colors at all – that their entire field of vision is in grayscale. But the truth is, most people with a color vision deficiency can see a vast array of hues, just not with the same level of accuracy as those with “normal” vision.
In my case, for example, I can attest with certainty that the sky is blue, a stop sign is red, the grass is green, and Big Bird is yellow. These bold, primary colors are easy for me to distinguish. But start placing certain shades next to each other, and it becomes more challenging. The colors start to blend and muddy together, making it harder for me to tell them apart.
And it’s not just me – the reality is that human color vision, in general, is relatively subpar compared to many other species. We may think we’re seeing the world in all its vibrant glory, but the truth is, our eyes and brains are actually quite limited when it comes to perceiving the full spectrum of light wavelengths.
In fact, studies have suggested that 12% of the world’s women might have a fourth type of cone cell in their retinas, giving them enhanced color differentiation capabilities that most of us can’t even begin to imagine. So in a sense, those of us with “normal” color vision are actually the ones with the limited perspective.
Overcoming Obstacles and Embracing Accessibility
Throughout my career, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges and obstacles when it comes to navigating the world of design and web development as a person with a color vision deficiency. From condescending remarks about my career choices to outright discrimination, I’ve encountered it all.
Early on, I even convinced myself to not disclose my condition to new employers or coworkers, fearful that it would hinder my opportunities. But over time, I realized that hiding it was doing more harm than good. By being open about my color vision deficiency and framing it through the lens of accessibility, I was able to turn it into an asset rather than a liability.
Nowadays, I’m proud to bring my unique perspective to the table, offering insights and feedback that my colleagues might not have considered otherwise. I review designs, point out potential trouble spots, and serve as a test subject for usability research – all with the goal of making our products truly inclusive and accessible.
And the great thing is, there are so many tools and resources available to help those of us with color vision deficiencies thrive in this industry. From color picker tools and predefined color combinations to high-contrast code editors and accessibility-focused design workflows, the landscape has come a long way.
In fact, the concept of “universal design” – creating spaces and products that are accessible to people of all abilities – has become increasingly important, especially as our population continues to age. And that’s where the work we do at ABC Home comes into play.
Designing for a Lifetime of Accessibility
When it comes to creating living spaces that are truly accessible and inclusive, the key is to think beyond just the present moment. After all, our needs and abilities can change dramatically over the course of a lifetime, and the spaces we inhabit should be able to adapt and grow with us.
That’s why at ABC Home, we’ve made accessibility a top priority in our building and renovation projects. We understand that a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work, and that the true mark of good design is its ability to cater to a wide range of needs and preferences.
Take, for example, the bathroom. Traditionally, accessible bathrooms have been associated with a clinical, institutional aesthetic – something that most people would prefer to avoid. But we’re changing that narrative. By incorporating universal design principles into our projects, we’re creating bathrooms that are not only functional, but also beautiful and inviting.
From strategically placed grab bars and adjustable showerheads to non-slip flooring and ample maneuvering space, we’re ensuring that every bathroom we design can accommodate a variety of needs and abilities. And the best part? These features are seamlessly integrated into the overall design, so they don’t stand out as an afterthought or a compromise.
But our commitment to accessibility goes beyond just the physical space. We also recognize the importance of addressing the needs of those with sensory or cognitive impairments, including those with color vision deficiencies like myself.
That’s why we work closely with our clients to ensure that the color palettes and visual elements we incorporate into our designs are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also easy to perceive and interpret for everyone who will be using the space. We leverage tools and resources like color contrast checkers, and we’re always open to feedback from individuals with diverse perspectives and experiences.
Embracing Diversity and Fostering Inclusion
Ultimately, the driving force behind our focus on accessibility isn’t just about ticking boxes or meeting regulatory requirements. It’s about creating spaces that truly empower and enrich the lives of everyone who interacts with them, regardless of their abilities or limitations.
And that’s a philosophy that extends beyond just the built environment. At ABC Home, we’re committed to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion, both within our own organization and in the broader communities we serve.
We believe that by embracing the unique perspectives and experiences of individuals with disabilities, we can create better, more innovative solutions. That’s why we actively seek out collaborations with organizations and experts in the accessibility and inclusion space, constantly learning and evolving our practices to better serve the needs of our clients and their families.
After all, as someone who has navigated the challenges of working in a visually-driven industry with a color vision deficiency, I know firsthand the importance of representation and the power of diverse voices. And I’m proud to be part of a team that not only recognizes this, but also actively works to amplify those voices and create a more inclusive built environment for all.
So, whether you’re a homeowner looking to create a space that will grow and adapt with you over the years, or a designer or architect seeking to incorporate more accessibility-focused principles into your work, I encourage you to connect with us at ABC Home. Together, we can work to build a world that’s designed for a lifetime of accessibility and inclusion.
