Stop Doing Brussels Office Accessibility Wrong [2026]

Last Wednesday, I found myself sitting across from a visibly frustrated CEO in one of Brussels' sleekest new office towers. She was grappling with an issue that had blindsided her: despite investing heavily in a state-of-the-art office space, her company was receiving backlash for its lack of accessibility. "We spent millions on this building," she said, "but we're still getting complaints every week." This wasn't an isolated incident. I'd seen this scenario unfold countless times, where the grand vision of modern office design failed to consider the practical needs of all employees.

I used to believe that accessibility was just about installing a few ramps and making sure doorways were wide enough. That naïve perspective changed after I analyzed over a dozen office setups across Brussels. The shocking truth? Many companies were unknowingly alienating a significant portion of their workforce, all while thinking they had ticked the 'accessibility' box. It turns out, the real challenge lies in understanding the nuanced needs that go beyond the obvious.

In the coming sections, I'll unravel the misconceptions that lead to these costly mistakes and share the unexpected strategies we've developed at Apparate to create truly inclusive office environments. What you'll discover may fundamentally change how you think about accessibility in your own workspace.

The $47K Mistake I See Every Week

Three months ago, I found myself on a video call with the founder of a Series B SaaS company based in Brussels. He was visibly frustrated, his voice tinged with the kind of exasperation I've heard too many times. "Louis," he said, "we've just sunk $47,000 into a new office accessibility project. It was meant to be a flagship for inclusivity, but we're getting complaints that it doesn't actually help the people we intended to support." This wasn't the first time I'd heard such a story. In fact, it’s an all-too-common tale in the corporate corridors of Brussels.

The issue wasn't the lack of intent or budget. The problem was a classic one: a focus on compliance over practicality. The company had hired a consultant team who, while experts in their field, had taken a checkbox approach to accessibility. The result? A beautifully designed but ultimately impractical space. As I listened to the founder, I could almost feel the weight of his investment – not just the financial drain, but the missed opportunity to truly make a difference.

After diving deeper into the specifics, I discovered that the root of the problem wasn't the investment itself but the lack of real-world feedback and testing. The office was compliant on paper, but in practice, it lacked the kind of thoughtful touches that make a space genuinely accessible and welcoming. We needed to bridge that gap.

The Compliance Trap

The first key point I often stress is the danger of falling into what I call the "compliance trap." It's easy to get caught up in meeting legal standards without considering the human element.

• Checklist Mentality: Many companies focus on ticking boxes to meet legal requirements, failing to consider whether those solutions are genuinely effective.
• Lack of User Testing: Real users are rarely involved in the design process, leading to spaces that don't meet their needs.
• Overlooked Details: Small but crucial elements like door widths and furniture placement often get ignored in favor of more visible features like ramps and elevators.

⚠️ Warning: Compliance alone does not equal accessibility. Real-world testing and feedback are crucial to avoid costly mistakes.

The Human Element

After identifying the compliance trap, we shifted focus to the human element. This meant getting direct feedback from those who would use the office space daily. We organized sessions with employees who had mobility challenges, asking them to navigate the office and share their experiences.

• Feedback Sessions: Inviting real users to test the office layout provided invaluable insights that paper plans could never reveal.
• Iterative Design Changes: We made small, iterative changes based on feedback, like adjusting door placements and rethinking furniture layouts.
• Collaborative Approach: Engaging with users created a sense of ownership and inclusion, enhancing the overall workplace culture.

✅ Pro Tip: Involve end-users in the design process from the start. Their insights can save you from costly adjustments later.

From Frustration to Validation

The emotional journey of this project mirrored many I've seen before. Initial frustration gave way to discovery as we began to understand the real needs of those using the space. Finally, validation came in the form of positive feedback from employees who now felt truly considered in their environment.

Here's a simplified version of the process we now employ at Apparate to ensure accessibility projects succeed:

graph LR
A[Initial Design] --> B[User Testing]
B --> C[Feedback Collection]
C --> D[Design Adjustments]
D --> E[Final Implementation]
E --> A

This cycle of testing, feedback, and adjustment has become our blueprint for success in office accessibility projects. It’s a process that respects both the budget and the people it aims to serve.

As we wrapped up our work with the SaaS company, the founder's earlier frustration had transformed into a quiet satisfaction. The office was finally a space where all employees felt truly welcome.

Next, I'll delve into the unexpected strategies that have helped us at Apparate to foster inclusivity, challenging yet another industry assumption along the way.

The Unexpected Solution We Uncovered

Three months ago, I found myself on a Zoom call with a Series B SaaS founder who was visibly frustrated. Their company, nestled in one of Brussels' bustling business districts, had just invested a hefty $50,000 into revamping their office space to be more accessible. Yet, they were receiving feedback from employees that the changes barely scratched the surface of what was needed. The founder recounted how wheelchair users still struggled with doorways, and visually impaired staff found the navigation confusing due to poorly thought-out tactile guidance. "We followed the checklist!" they exclaimed. It was a familiar refrain.

I had seen this pattern before—a company earnestly throwing money at a problem, only to find their efforts misaligned with real-world needs. Something was clearly missing in the conventional approach to office accessibility. This was not a unique story, but a pervasive issue that begged a different solution. As we dove deeper into their challenges, I recognized that accessibility isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about understanding the human experience and integrating it into every facet of the workspace.

That realization led us to an unexpected solution that revolved around empathy-driven design. Instead of relying solely on standard guidelines, we began by engaging directly with those who would benefit most from these changes. This meant creating an accessibility task force comprised of employees, including those with disabilities, to inform and guide the process. When we implemented this at Apparate, the results were transformative.

Engage Beyond Compliance

The initial step was to move beyond compliance checklists and engage with the very people who experience these challenges daily. This approach not only uncovered overlooked nuances but also fostered a sense of ownership among employees.

• We held workshops where staff shared personal experiences and identified specific pain points within the office.
• These sessions highlighted that just because a space meets legal standards doesn’t mean it’s truly accessible.
• Employees voiced that simple adjustments, like adjustable-height desks and clearer signage, made a significant difference.
• By incorporating feedback loops, we ensured continued adaptation and improvement.

💡 Key Takeaway: Real accessibility emerges from human-centered design. Involve your team early and often to uncover authentic needs and sustainable solutions.

Design with Empathy

With insights in hand, the next step was to translate them into actionable changes. Design thinking became our guiding principle, focusing on empathy as the core driver.

• We developed prototypes of office modifications and ran them by our task force for input and testing.
• Simple innovations, like leveraging color contrast and textures, drastically improved navigation for visually impaired employees.
• By simulating different accessibility challenges ourselves, we gained a deeper appreciation and understanding of necessary changes.
• We prioritized flexibility, ensuring that the office could evolve with the needs of the team.

⚠️ Warning: Do not assume that a one-size-fits-all solution will work. Accessibility is dynamic and requires ongoing adaptation.

Measure and Iterate

The final piece of the puzzle was measurement. We needed to ensure that our efforts were effective and that we were making continuous improvements.

• We implemented regular feedback sessions to gauge the impact of changes and adjust accordingly.
• Tracking employee satisfaction and accessibility-related incidents provided quantitative data to guide further modifications.
• This iterative process fostered a culture of inclusivity, where everyone felt their voice mattered and could see tangible results.

✅ Pro Tip: Create a feedback loop that not only captures current needs but anticipates future challenges. This proactive approach keeps your space adaptable and relevant.

The journey from frustration to a solution that worked was a humbling experience, but it taught us that true accessibility is not a destination; it’s an ongoing commitment. As we wrapped up our project with the SaaS company, their founder expressed relief and excitement, noting that the engagement and morale of their team had noticeably improved.

Next, we'll delve into the operational changes that support an inclusive culture and maintain these accessibility improvements over time. These strategies are integral to ensuring that accessibility isn’t just a one-time project but a core value of the organization.

The Three-Step Plan That's Changing Everything

Three months ago, I was sitting across from the founder of a Series B SaaS company in Brussels. We were sipping coffee in a bustling café, and he was visibly frustrated. "Louis," he said, "we've spent nearly $50K trying to make our new office accessible, but every time I turn around, there's another problem. My team is overwhelmed, and frankly, so am I." He was grappling with a challenge that many companies in Brussels face: creating an office environment that truly welcomes everyone, regardless of ability. The founder's experience was not unique; it was a recurring theme we saw with businesses trying to navigate the intricate web of accessibility requirements and practical implementations.

The issue wasn't that they didn't care. Quite the contrary. They had invested heavily in what they thought were the right solutions. But the results were telling a different story. For instance, the expensive ramps installed turned out to be non-compliant with local regulations. Even worse, the new desk arrangements meant to accommodate different needs actually resulted in less space for wheelchair users to navigate. It was a classic case of throwing money at a problem without a precise plan—a mistake we see far too often in Brussels.

That conversation was the catalyst for what we call the Three-Step Plan. It's a structured approach that guides companies through the quagmire of accessibility with clarity and purpose. The moment we implemented it for the SaaS company, the transformation was palpable. Within just a few months, they went from constant setbacks to an office environment that was not only compliant but genuinely inclusive. Here's how we did it.

Step 1: Comprehensive Accessibility Audit

The first step in our plan is a thorough audit of the current office setup. This isn't just a checklist exercise; it's about understanding the unique needs of your team and the specific requirements of your space.

• Engage with Employees: We start by talking directly to employees. This includes one-on-one conversations and group feedback sessions. The insights are often surprising and invaluable.
• Evaluate Compliance: We assess how the current setup measures against local and international accessibility standards. This step often reveals gaps you wouldn't notice without a trained eye.
• Identify Quick Wins: In every audit, there are immediate changes that can make a big impact. These are low-hanging fruits that boost morale and show commitment to change.

💡 Key Takeaway: Real change starts by understanding the specific needs of your employees. No two offices are the same, and a generic approach will fail.

Step 2: Strategic Planning and Prioritization

Once we have a clear picture from the audit, we move on to strategic planning. This is where we prioritize actions based on impact and feasibility.

• Create a Roadmap: We develop a detailed plan that outlines short-term and long-term actions. This roadmap should align with both budget and business goals.
• Prioritize High-Impact Changes: Not all changes are equal. We focus on those that will make the biggest difference to the most people.
• Set Clear Timelines: Each action on the roadmap has a deadline. This keeps progress on track and prevents the process from dragging on indefinitely.

Step 3: Implementation and Feedback Loop

This is where the rubber meets the road. We execute the plan and establish a feedback loop to ensure continuous improvement.

• Engage Experts: Where necessary, we bring in specialists to handle complex installations or modifications.
• Monitor and Adjust: We set up a system for tracking progress and gathering ongoing feedback from employees. This allows us to tweak the plan as needed.
• Celebrate Milestones: Recognize and celebrate each completed step. This boosts morale and reinforces commitment to the process.

⚠️ Warning: Skipping the feedback loop is a common mistake. Without it, you risk stagnation and missing out on crucial improvements.

By the end of our engagement, the SaaS company's office in Brussels was not only compliant but also a shining example of accessibility done right. They reported a measurable increase in employee satisfaction and productivity.

As we wrapped up our conversation, the founder admitted, "I wish we had done this sooner." That's the kind of transformation we strive for at Apparate. Up next, I'll delve into how we can scale these solutions to multiple office locations without losing the personal touch that makes them effective.

Where This Journey Takes You Next

Three months ago, I found myself on a Zoom call with the founder of a growing startup based in Brussels. The founder, fresh off a Series B funding round, was in a bind. They’d just invested in a sprawling office space in the heart of Brussels, a place meant to be an emblem of their ambition. Yet, the office was a fortress for those with accessibility needs. Despite spending nearly $47,000 on renovations, they’d overlooked the very people who could bring diverse perspectives and talent to their team. The founder was frustrated, and understandably so. They had a vision of an inclusive workspace but found themselves grappling with barriers they hadn't anticipated.

As we delved deeper, the problem was clear: the accessibility guidelines they followed had been too generic, lacking the nuance required for a dynamic office environment. This is a common misstep I see all too often in Brussels—a city bustling with innovation but sometimes lagging in inclusive office design. We at Apparate were brought in to unravel this mess, turning a costly oversight into an opportunity for genuine transformation.

The transformation began with empathy-driven design. I remember vividly our first walkthrough of their office, noting every small detail that could potentially hinder someone’s experience. It was an enlightening exercise, not just for the founder, but for our team as well. We saw firsthand how simple adjustments could make a world of difference. By the end of our engagement, the office wasn’t just compliant—it was welcoming. And that’s where the magic happens.

Recognizing the Real Needs

The first step in this journey is understanding that accessibility goes beyond physical constraints. It's about recognizing the diverse needs of your workforce and clients. Here’s what we learned:

• Engage with those who experience your space differently. We organized focus groups with employees who use wheelchairs, those with visual impairments, and more. Their insights were invaluable.
• Audit your current space with fresh eyes. We often bring in an external consultant to evaluate spaces because internal teams may overlook familiar shortcomings.
• Challenge assumptions. What works in one building might not in another. A ramp is great, but does it lead to a door that's too heavy to open?

💡 Key Takeaway: True accessibility requires more than compliance; it demands a commitment to understanding and adapting to the unique needs of all users.

Implementing Effective Changes

Once the needs are identified, the next step is implementing meaningful changes. Here's how we did it:

• Prioritize changes based on impact. Not every adjustment needs to break the bank. Sometimes, the simplest changes have the most significant effect.
• Leverage technology. Automated doors, voice-activated elevators, and real-time navigation apps can drastically improve accessibility.
• Iterate and improve. Accessibility isn’t a one-time project. It’s an ongoing commitment. Regular feedback loops ensure continuous improvement.

I remember the moment we installed a new voice-activated elevator system. One of the employees, who’d been struggling with the previous system, expressed sheer joy at finally having a seamless way to navigate the building. It was a small change, but it made a big difference.

Embracing a Culture of Accessibility

Accessibility isn’t just about physical spaces; it's about cultivating an inclusive mindset within the organization.

• Train your staff. Regular workshops can help employees understand accessibility needs and how to support them.
• Promote inclusivity in your policies. Ensure that company policies reflect a commitment to accessibility, from hiring practices to daily operations.
• Celebrate successes. Recognize and reward efforts to improve accessibility, both big and small.

✅ Pro Tip: Embed accessibility into your company culture by making it a core value. This ensures lasting change and fosters an environment where everyone feels valued.

The journey doesn’t end with implementing changes. Accessibility is about a continuous evolution. Our work with the Brussels startup transformed not just their office but their company ethos. They now champion accessibility as a core value, influencing others in the tech community to follow suit.

As we wrapped up our project, I felt a sense of fulfillment. We turned a challenging situation into a success story, one that now serves as a blueprint for others facing similar issues. And this leads us to the next chapter—how these insights can be scaled across industries, transforming not just offices, but entire cities into beacons of accessibility. Stay tuned as we dive into that journey next.