Design & Autism. An unconventional approach to inclusion through product innovation (Arquilla Venanzio; Caruso Federica - Maggioli)

The book explores the intersection of design and autism through an inclusive and multidisciplinary lens. It brings together diverse perspectives, lived experiences, and, most importantly, a rich collection of projects and ideas that emphasise the social and cultural impact of design. Just as autism is not a singular experience but a spectrum of identities, design should be multifaceted, adaptable, and reflective of diverse voices. 

“The value of this book lies in its ability to address these issues not as problems to be solved but as opportunities to rethink design—and, by extension, society itself. The experience of Lab COmeta, as narrated through contributions from experts and students, demonstrates that Inclusive Design is not optional—it is a necessity. Designing with, rather than for, autistic individuals requires an open, collaborative approach in which the perspectives of those directly experiencing autism are integral to the creative process. […]. Design has the power to reverse this dynamic, teaching us that diversity is not an obstacle but a powerful resource. It can help us create a world where all individuals, regardless of their specific traits, are given the opportunity to be themselves.”

VENANZIO ARQUILLA - Associate Professor, Politecnico di Milano
Head of Prod xperience Design Academy (XDA), and co-director of the UxP Master. Leads the Joint Research Lab AXD and professor on multiple master program boards, focusing on user experience, service design, and strategic design.
FEDERICA CARUSO - PhD Candidate, Politecnico di Milano UX and product designer researching
inclusive design integration in meta-design to tackle biases in design education. Coordinator of the Experience Design Academy, UX Design tutor, and COmeta Lab collaborator addressing autismrelated design challenges.