Easter Seals Camp Shawnigan Lake

Camp is a place to play and discover, build confidence, and see what's possible. So how can you create a space that gives people with disabilities the experience of what camp is all about? It starts with testing the limits of accessible design as we know it today, and exploring how we can foster deep inclusion beyond what's been done before.

hcma is collaborating with Easter Seals BC and Yukon to reimagine Camp Shawnigan: a lakeside summer camp that has provided formative experiences for campers and vital respite to families and caregivers for over 44 years. Now nearing the end of its useful life, we're working with a committee of people with lived experience to design a camp that's even more impactful.

Many perceive accessibility as merely regulations and rules. Camp is all about trying new things and pushing boundaries. As designers, we had to ask: what does accessible design mean in the context of supported exploration and adventure? Meaningful access means providing a real camp experience, with all its excitement, camaraderie, and grit, for everyone to discover. For us, this meant making accessible design standards contextually appropriate, and modifying or adjusting them to provide opportunities for self-discovery and resilience. Eliminating barriers to participation and enabling risky play while still ensuring a safe space.