ACCESS FOR ALL CREATORS

aka: how to roll, stroll, or strut into the lab

At The Joy Lab, we believe making should be for everyone. That means making our space as accessible as possible, so you can focus on getting creative—not navigating obstacles.

Here’s what to know about getting into the lab.

GETTING INSIDE

Front Entrance / Main Door:

This is the entry closest to the sidewalk. Please note:
– There’s a half staircase (about 5–6 stairs)
– No handrail
– After the stairs, it’s a 3-hallway walk to the lab door

This entrance is not recommended for anyone who uses a mobility aid or prefers a step-free entry.

Back Entrance (Alley / Loading Dock):

This is the more accessible entry option.
Here’s what that looks like:
– Step-free entrance via a extra wide ramp
– Two standard-width doorways
– A small lip at the threshold of the first doorway (under 1 inch)
– Only one hallway to walk/navigate before you’re inside the lab and ready to make magic

If you’d like to use the alley entrance, just give us a heads up when booking and we’ll make sure it’s open and someone’s there to guide you in + assist with doors. Or when you arrive you can call or text (773) 417-0834.

CLICK HERE to see a video walking from our available parking spot to the ramp for the back entrance.

THE NUMBERS:

WHAT ARE THE DOOR WIDTHS?

All doors between the back entry and the Lab and between the Lab and the bathroom are 36 inches wide.

How wide is the ramp?

The ramp at the back entrance is 9 feet wide.

How wide are the hallways?

Hallways are 60 inches wide.

WHAT ARE THE SEAT Dimensions + Weight Limits ?

Couch seats: 36 inches wide per section + 17 inches tall. Weight Limit 500lbs per section.

Rolling Stool: 15.8 inches wide. Height is adjustable from 19.8 to 25 inches. Weight Limit 460 lbs.

Office Chair: Armrest to Armrest: 30.5 inches. Floor to Seat Base Adjustable from 18.1 inches to 21.9 inches. Weight Limit: 460 LBS

Modular Folding Paper Bench: 17 inches tall, 12 inches deep, and up to 60 inches long. Weight Limit: 500lbs.

How wide is the alley?

The alley is 18 feet wide.

Whats the minimum and maximum table height?

The main studio table (the peanut shaped one) is adjustable from 16 inches tall to 32 inches tall.

The studio desk can be adjusted from 27.5 inches tall to 42 inches tall.

The P2 laser is at a height of 47 inches from floor to lid and is not easily operated by folks using seated mobility aids. Staff is always present to load your materials into the laser and hit the start button for you.

FAT-FRIENDLY & BODY-INCLUSIVE

Every body is welcome here. We mean that.

  • All furniture is fat-friendly and weight tested to at least 450 lbs

  • We’ve got wide, low, and supportive couches, stools, and chairs

  • Layout allows ample space to move freely, no matter your body size or mobility aid

  • All Chairs (besides one computer chair) are armless

You can always request a different table height, or a layout tweak—we’re here to make sure you’re comfortable.

ADJUSTABLE & FLEXIBLE SETUP

Our main work table is:

  • Adjustable height (stand, sit, or roll up however you like!)

  • On wheels and fully movable so we can shift the layout to create extra space for mobility, equipment, or just a little breathing room. (Table rolls but takes intentional force to push so don’t worry about it rolling away when in use.)

If you need us to set up the space a certain way, just drop us a note ahead of time—we’re happy to prep it for your needs.

OTHER ACCESSIBILITY FAQ’s

  • The Joy Lab is meant to feel calm, creative, and comfortable. When you’re using the space, you control the vibe — music is totally up to you. The lighting isn’t adjustable (YET), but it’s steady and even soft white light. We don’t use perfumes, candles, or essential oils, though some residual smells from 3D printing or laser cutting may linger from previous sessions. The air out of our laser is filtered for VOC’s but those sensitive to smells are welcome to use the NIOSH-approved respirators we have available. While you’ll have the space to yourself (along with a staff member), there may occasionally be ambient noise from neighboring businesses in the building. Noise-canceling headphones are available if you need a quieter environment.

  • We currently offer fidget toys, foot stools, and noise-canceling headphones for anyone who’d like to use them. If there’s something else that would make your experience more comfortable or accessible, please let us know before your visit — we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.

  • We don’t currently have in-person translators or interpreters on staff, but we’re happy to use translation or communication apps to help bridge language or accessibility needs — including apps that support deaf or hard-of-hearing visitors. If you use a specific app or device that works best for you, just let us know ahead of time so we can make sure things run smoothly during your visit.

  • Yes! Our building’s bathroom is spacious and includes a large stall with grip rails for anyone who needs extra room or uses mobility aids. The sinks are open underneath, so wheelchair users can roll right up. Please note that the mirrors are positioned above the sinks at standing height and may not be easily viewable for seated folks.

    Doors between the lab and the bathroom do not open automatically. A staff member is always present and happy to assist you with navigating any doors. Doors are all push oriented when entering, and pull oriented upon exiting.

  • We don’t generally require masks, since bookings don’t overlap and we wipe down high-touch surfaces between sessions. You’re always welcome to wear one, and we keep sanitizer and cleaning products available for anyone to use. Our staff is also happy to wear an N95 mask upon request.

    If someone who is immunocompromised will be attending a group event, we’ll notify all participants that masking will be required for everyone. All group event listings include a note that masks may be required if requested by an attendee — so everyone can feel safe and comfortable creating together.

    If you’re sick or feeling unwell, please don’t come to the Lab or any event. We’re happy to provide credit for your booked time if you give at least 5 hours’ notice that you’re not feeling well.

  • Yes, service animals are always welcome in the lab.

  • Shoot us a text at (773) 417-0834 — we love questions (and creative problem-solving). If we don’t have an answer yet, we’ll figure one out together.