Who We Are

Our Beginning

Founded in 1999, Dickinson + Partners, formerly known as Winter & Company Special Needs Studio, began as the vision of Nore Winter and John Dickinson.

Believing that there is power in designing distinct spaces for individuals with unique needs, they launched the first special needs studio to passionately design for individuals who use space differently

Our Passion

Although substantial guidelines address design needs for persons with mobility differences, little formal literature exists that describes the special programming requirements for deaf and blind populations. Now, this award-winning architectural and consulting firm is breaking new ground in areas such as DeafSpace and designing and navigating spaces for the blind

Building upon a foundation of extensive experience in programming and design of educational and housing facilities for the deaf and the blind, they have gained additional expertise and experience in designing facilities serving individuals who are autistic.

Our Legacy

An international planning and design firm, Dickinson + Partners has consulted on projects across the world and has been recognized as one of the top firms in the world in the area of special needs programming and design.

Listen, Learn + Lead

Ultimately, it is our passion to listen, learn, and lead through a collaborative approach, while creating designs that surpass the imagination and enrich the lives of those who use them.