Jane is the founder and principal of Kuno Architecture Inc., a design and consulting firm based in Vancouver that specializes in accessible, inclusive and universal design. Jane believes that everyone has the right to be able to use and enjoy all built spaces. She helps her clients eliminate barriers in everything from large corporate environments to individual living spaces. 

The project Jane is most proud of is the accessible triplex that she designed for her cousin five years ago.  In fact it was this intensive experience that compelled her to focus her practice on accessible design.  Seeing first hand the issues that so many people with disabilities face day-to-day, Jane started a significant research journey to learn everything that she could about accessible design.  As an architect, Jane sees each residential and commercial project as an opportunity to find creative ways to celebrate and embrace accessibility without sacrificing design.  While maintaining a strong focus on research and experimentation, Jane uses and materials and fixtures that are accessible without the look and feel being institutional.  

Before starting KUNO, Jane worked as an architect for large firms, where her projects included airports, community centres and mega-developments.   Jane volunteers by reviewing accessibility in the built environment as a member of the City of Vancouver Urban Design Panel, the City of Vancouver’s Persons with Disabilities Advisory Committee, and the Disability Alliance BC’s Right Fit Project steering committee.  Jane was one of the first to graduate from Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification™ (RHFAC) training, and she has been applying this knowledge on dozens of sites since then, with a focus on pre-construction consultation and review.  Jane speaks at events regarding universal design and she co-published a book about accessible washrooms for commercial applications titled Building Better Bathrooms.