Blind and low vision (BLV) people face challenges in accessing charts, often relying on assistive technologies with limited interactivity. This paper presents the design process of a tangible companion supporting data literacy for BLV people. Building on semi-structured interviews with five blind and six low vision participants and a review of current tools, we conducted a Story/Test/Story protocol with a low vision participant experienced in data representation. We compared a screen-magnified bar chart with two tactile probes: (1) a unit-based cardboard bar chart and (2) a static 3D bar sculpture, using a univariate public dataset. Insights from these activities informed the ideation of the Data Fidget, a prototype that communicates data through movement, expanding when values increase and contracting when they decrease, complementing existing assistive technologies. Future work will refine and test the Data Fidget with more BLV participants, contributing to an ecosystem of tactile and intuitive data engagement tools.

Trans and non-binary individuals undergoing hormone therapy face unique and evolving needs for sexual wellness products that current solutions often overlook. The transition process involves significant anatomical and psychological changes, highlighting the necessity for more inclusive approaches to Human-Computer Interaction and overall well-being. Within this framework, this study presents the development of a pleasure object designed to be fluid, adaptive, and responsive to the evolving anatomical and psychological changes experienced during hormone therapy. To this end, authors conducted comprehensive research, including an online survey on the autoerotic habits of trans and non-binary individuals, followed by three sensitive interviews and clinical integration. They observed significant themes that highlight the unique requirements and experiences of this community. By leveraging advanced technologies and selected materials, authors provide design considerations and discuss the potential of these methods to create sexual wellness products that offer meaningful and inclusive experiences for the trans and non-binary community.

In recent years several scholars from the design discipline attempted to conceptualize and frame “Living Artefacts” as a novel class of objects, alive and responsive in their relationship with humans. Simultaneously, a lesser explored but promising area is a synergetic collaboration between design, Human-Computer Interaction and synthetic biology, where the Engineered Living Materials (ELMs) developed by bioengineers could be explored and exploited to craft Living Artefacts and improve user experience. ELMs possess some hallmark features of life, such as self-regeneration, autonomy and environmental responsiveness. This Studio would engage participants in design-driven explorations of an ELM, specifically a “augmented silicone” (silicone with embedded proteins), a material with programmed “superpowers”, while exploring applications of ELMs beyond the sole bioengineering field. Participants and organizers would critically reflect on the Studio's outcomes and map the challenges, opportunities and ethical considerations while integrating design and biology.