Designing for Accessibility| Inclusive Shell Scheme Panel Ideas

In today's world, accessibility is no longer just a ‘nice to have’—it’s an essential part of creating inclusive environments that welcome everyone. When it comes to exhibitions and trade shows, thoughtful design can make a real difference in how people engage with your space. Shell scheme panels are a standard feature of many exhibitions, but they are often designed without much consideration for people with different needs.

This blog explores how exhibition organisers and exhibitors can design shell scheme panels that are both accessible and inclusive. We’ll share practical ideas, design tips, and useful insights to help make exhibition stands more welcoming and effective for all visitors.

Understanding Accessibility in Exhibitions

Accessibility means creating spaces and experiences that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities. In exhibitions, this includes people who use wheelchairs, those who are visually or hearing impaired, and individuals with neurodiverse conditions such as autism.

In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 requires businesses and organisations to make reasonable adjustments so that disabled people are not put at a disadvantage. This applies to event spaces too, including how shell scheme panels are designed and used. Going beyond basic requirements can help create a truly inclusive experience for all attendees.

Common Accessibility Barriers with Traditional Shell Schemes

Traditional shell scheme panels are often designed with aesthetics and branding in mind, but not necessarily accessibility. Here are some common barriers that can prevent people from fully engaging with an exhibition stand:

• Poor height placement of information and visuals can make it hard for wheelchair users to see or interact with your display.
• Lack of tactile or sensory features can exclude individuals who rely on touch or sound for information.
• Small fonts and low contrast text make it difficult for people with visual impairments to read.
• Overuse of bright colours or flashing lights may cause issues for neurodivergent visitors.
• Cramped or cluttered layouts can make navigation difficult, especially for those using mobility aids.

By identifying these barriers, we can begin to design more thoughtful, accessible shell scheme panels that cater to everyone.

Inclusive Design Principles for Shell Scheme Panels

Good design is inclusive design. Here are some key principles to follow when creating accessible exhibition panels:

1. Use High Contrast and Readable Fonts

Make sure that any text on your panels is easy to read. Use sans-serif fonts, large sizes, and bold colours that stand out clearly against the background. Avoid placing text over images or busy backgrounds.

2. Consider Height and Reach

Information and interactive features should be placed within easy reach for wheelchair users. A good guideline is to position key elements between 900mm and 1200mm from the ground.

3. Introduce Multi-Sensory Features

Incorporate tactile surfaces, sound elements, or QR codes that link to audio guides. This allows visitors with different sensory preferences to engage with your stand in ways that work best for them.

4. Create Open and Flexible Layouts

Avoid overcrowding your space with too many display items. Use clear pathways and leave enough room for wheelchairs or mobility scooters to move comfortably.

5. Minimise Visual Clutter

Stick to a simple design with clean lines and sufficient white space. Too much visual information can be overwhelming for neurodiverse individuals or those with cognitive impairments.

Creative Inclusive Shell Scheme Panel Ideas

With some creative thinking, your shell scheme panels can become engaging and inclusive without compromising on design or branding. Here are some accessible ideas to consider for your next exhibition printing project:

Tactile Panels

Use raised text or braille to provide information that can be read through touch. This is especially helpful for people with visual impairments and can be applied to company names, slogans, or simple instructions.

QR Codes and Audio Descriptions

Place QR codes on your panels that link to audio descriptions, videos with subtitles, or British Sign Language (BSL) translations. This allows visitors to access content in a format that suits them best.

Colour-Blind Friendly Design

Choose colours carefully. Tools like the Coblis colour blindness simulator can help you check how your design will appear to people with different types of colour vision deficiency.

Touch-Free Interaction

Use motion sensors or gesture-controlled elements for hands-free interaction. These can provide an engaging experience while maintaining hygiene and accessibility.

Visual Storytelling

Replace dense text with infographics, icons, or illustrations that explain your message visually. This approach works well for people who may struggle with reading or prefer to process information in pictures.

Accessible Fonts

Stick to clear, sans-serif fonts like Arial, Verdana, or Tahoma. Avoid decorative or script fonts that may be hard to read, especially in smaller sizes or on busy backgrounds.

Collaborating with Accessibility Experts and User Testing

One of the best ways to ensure your exhibition stand is accessible is to involve people with lived experience of disability. Consulting with accessibility experts or local disability organisations can help you spot issues you may not have considered.

User testing is also highly valuable. Set up a mock version of your stand and invite individuals from diverse backgrounds to interact with it. Ask for honest feedback and be open to making changes. Accessibility is not a one-size-fits-all solution, so continuous improvement is key.

Benefits of Accessible Shell Scheme Design

There are many benefits to designing inclusive shell scheme panels, including:

• Wider audience reach: More people can engage with your stand, increasing interest and interaction.
• Positive brand reputation: Demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity can boost your company’s public image.
• Legal compliance: Following accessibility standards ensures your site meets UK legal requirements.
• Better user experience: A clear, well-organised stand is easier for everyone to navigate and understand.

By thinking inclusively, you’re not just ticking boxes—you’re opening the door to a broader and more meaningful conversation with your audience.

Conclusion: Leading the Way with Inclusive Design

Exhibitions are about connection, communication, and visibility. Designing your shell scheme panels with accessibility in mind ensures every visitor feels welcome and informed. From tactile panels to audio guides or a simplified layout, even small changes can make a big difference. Accessibility should be part of your planning from the beginning, not an afterthought. At Board Printing Company, we champion inclusive design as a core element of modern exhibitions. For expert guidance and quality exhibition printing that supports accessibility, we’re here to help. Let’s make your next exhibition both impressive and inclusive.