NeuroPlaces Visits the ADC (Accessibility Discovery Centre) Google, London

The ADC at Google's King's Cross campus is a dedicated hub for research, collaboration and innovation in accessible technology. Launched in December 2022, it was built in consultation with Google Disability Alliance employee resource group and organisations such as RNIB and RNID. It was founded by and is led by Christopher Patnoe, Google's Head of Accessibility and Disability Inclusion.

"Accessibility doesn't stop at the screen... Just as we code accessibility into software, NeuroPlaces is 'coding' inclusion into our buildings and cities, ensuring everyone feels welcome and safe." (Praneeth Reddy, Accessibility Analyst - Google).

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Inside Google’s Accessibility Discovery Centre (ADC)

From the moment we arrived, it was clear that accessibility and inclusion are woven into the entire ethos of this centre. The room itself has a lovely calming influence as you walk in, it feels relaxed and comfortable.

We were met by Hans Zimmermann and Praneeth Reddy Chada who were kind enough to give us a tour. The centre showcases a wide range of assistive technologies and inclusive design tools, highlighting how thoughtful design can empower people with different physical, sensory, and cognitive needs including neurodiversity. Praneeth Reddy (Accessibility Analyst, Google) comments:

"At the ADC, we focus heavily on 'inclusive innovation'—designing with, not just for, the disability community. Currently, one of our major focus areas is on how AI can support neurodivergent minds by reducing cognitive load. From tools that summarize dense information to features that help filter out distractions, we are building technology that adapts to the user's unique processing style."

Following the mantra, 'nothing about us, without us'. ADC brings the community to the centre to collaborate on solutions, co-designing and ultimately – aiming for digital equity. This enables products to be created that may not have even entered the conversation beforehand if those individuals were not given the opportunity to speak. We get really excited when lived experience is taken seriously!

At the ADC, the process of inclusion is so important, there is an appreciation for products that are always evolving and changing to meet people's needs. Some of the highlights included:

• Interactive demos showing how Google integrates accessibility features across products like Android, Chrome, and Maps.

• Adaptive hardware and interfaces designed to support different motor and sensory needs.

• Immersive experiences illustrating how design decisions (like lighting, layout, and sound) can impact neurodiverse users.

• User-centred design processes, where people with disabilities co-create and test solutions alongside Google teams.

  
  

It was particularly inspiring to see how the ADC approaches inclusive design not as a constraint, but as a creative catalyst — leading to innovations that make technology better for everyone.

Connecting NeuroPlaces and Inclusive Tech

NeuroPlaces covers both built and digital environments in public spaces and workplaces and our visit to the ADC further highlighted the connection between neuroinclusive design in physical spaces and digital accessibility.

Both are built on the same principles:

• Empathy-driven design

• User testing with diverse groups

• Creating flexibility and choice in how people interact with environments and information

The ADC exemplifies how these ideas translate from architecture and workplace design into the digital realm, supporting cognitive and sensory diversity through adaptable interfaces and experiences. 'Together we can help build a world where everyone belongs'. Praneeth comments:

"If a space causes sensory overload or anxiety, even the best digital tools become less effective. This is why NeuroPlaces is such a vital initiative. They are bridging the critical gap between digital and physical inclusion. Just as we code accessibility into software, NeuroPlaces is 'coding' inclusion into our buildings and cities, ensuring everyone feels welcome and safe."

Reflections and Takeaways

Google’s commitment to accessibility as innovation, not as compliance, is wonderful to see. The ADC demonstrates that inclusive design can be beautiful, efficient, and human-centred, setting a benchmark for others in the tech and built environment sectors.

As we continue to explore neuroinclusive design, our visit to the ADC reminded us that the most impactful solutions come from collaboration, and highlights how those lived experiences are so vital to inclusive design.

Written by Eliza Reuby, NeuroPlaces