What makes a space truly inclusive? At Walker, we believe it goes beyond meeting accessibility standards or checking boxes. It’s about creating environments where every person feels welcome, supported, and valued.

Inclusive design starts with empathy. It’s shaped by thoughtful decisions—how someone enters a space, moves through it, and feels supported physically and emotionally. When done well, it sends a clear message: you belong here. Maggie Mitchell, recently named Principal of Interior Design at Walker, has built her career around this belief. With degrees in both psychology and interior design, she brings a people-first perspective to every project. “I strive to create spaces that help people not just receive care or complete tasks,” she says, “but truly thrive.”

Behavioral Health Settings and Beyond

In behavioral health settings, inclusive design plays a critical role. For LGBTQ+ youth, all-gender restrooms, softer finishes, and intuitive wayfinding can help reduce anxiety and build trust. Maggie also champions outdoor spaces and decompression areas that support mental and physical recovery, grounded in clinical research. But inclusive design extends well beyond healthcare. In higher education, it means creating flexible environments that support different learning styles and mobility needs. In workplaces, it’s about balancing collaboration and focus, offering choice, and ensuring access to natural light.

Exactech Factory Mezzanine, Gainesville FL

Listening is at the heart of Maggie’s process. “I love the discovery phase,” she says. “When everyone involved—quiet or outspoken—feels heard, it leads to stronger design and deeper accountability.”

At Walker, inclusive design is a shared responsibility. It shapes how we listen, plan, and build—ensuring that spaces are not only functional and beautiful, but equitable and responsive to real human needs. We’re proud to welcome Maggie to our team and even more excited about the shared values that brought her here. Her perspective strengthens our mission to design spaces that support dignity, foster connection, and promote well-being.

Because when design is rooted in empathy, it creates more than buildings—it creates belonging.

UF Student Healthcare Center - Staff Break Room

Featured image (top): Hillside's beloved yurt offers a unique and comfortable space to connect with nature. The addition of comfortable floor cushions provides alternate seating, ensuring the youngest patients feel welcome and at ease. Natural light and clients’ artwork on display both contribute to the healing nature of this space. This was one of Maggie's project at her previous firm, Dyer Brown & Associates.