I'm Chris Laing
I’ve been Deaf since birth and my first language is British Sign Language (BSL). I’ve wanted to be an architect since I was eight, but my journey through architecture school and into practice has been long and complicated.
Firstly there was the language barrier and a lack of visible role models, but I also had difficulties finding interpreters, securing funding and advocating for myself. I am still fighting for the right to take my Part 3 exam in BSL.
In 2023 I set up Deaf Architecture Front to support other deaf people who want to work in – and engage with – architecture. As a group of activists, advocates, changemakers and collaborators, we’re reshaping the profession to make the Deaf community heard.

In 2026, I set up Studio Yokwesi, a studio focused on co-design, collaboration and consultancy, and the development of inclusive and accessible products. Our work is grounded in the principles of DeafSpace, placing them at the centre of the design process.
If you have a project in mind or simply want to find out more, reach outto me directly at:
c.laing@deafarchitecturefront.com
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There are less than 10 Deaf qualified architects in the UK. Deaf Architecture Front is here to change that.
80% of Deaf architects prefer BSL access over written English.
64% of the Deaf community don’t engage with architecture. The 3% that do don’t have sufficient access.
72% of the Deaf community have never attended an architectural workshop, event or tour. The 10% that have did so with no access.
Just 6 out of the 1,800 BSL interpreters in the UK are familiar with architectural terminology.
Only 1% of qualified architects are disabled. Deaf people make up just 0.2% of that 1%.
80% of Deaf architects feel isolated in their workplace because they cannot share tips/experience with their colleagues.
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