The Rathskellar at Gallaudet University

The Rathskellar is a late-night student dining and hang out space. BKP built a small stage for student performances and meetings. Significant consideration was given to the lighting to allow for easy reading of ASL— both from the audience and stage perspective. Working with the University’s IT group, the stage design is equipped with video capabilities allowing for presentations to be simulcast into the adjacent atrium area allowing greater participation in large events.

BKP used heavily textured tiles surrounding the boarder of millwork and food stations allowing students with vision impairment to feel the changes as they approached each space.  Mirrors are mounted on the wall at the built-in bench to allow a visual connection with the surrounding area when seated facing the wall.

BKP incorporated Deaf Space Principles as well as Universal Design Principles, ADA regulations, and sustainable features to the new design —from materials for furniture making, solid
color selections to providing sight lines, every detail is crafted for a multi-sensory experience.

MEDIA COVERAGE

Gallaudet’s reimagined student center tackles sensory challenges