Matrix Design Group, a nationally recognized, award-winning, employee-owned interdisciplinary engineering, planning, design, and consultancy firm, has acquired the award-winning Direct Access Consultancy LLC (Direct Access), a leading global accessibility consulting firm. This acquisition expands Matrix’s broad portfolio and strengthens its accessibility and inclusivity capabilities across the U.S., its territories, and internationally, reinforcing our commitment to designing environments that work for all.
Direct Access will continue to be led by Steven Mifsud MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire), Founder and former President, who will now serve as Matrix’s Director of Accessibility, while continuing to oversee U.S. and international projects under the Matrix umbrella. Having collaborated successfully on numerous ADA Transition Plan projects, Matrix and Direct Access share a strong alignment of mission, values, and client service, now formalized through this acquisition.
Steven, awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Brighton this year in recognition of his global inclusion work, shared his vision:
“Our work has always gone beyond ADA compliance—it’s about creating spaces where everyone can participate. Joining Matrix allows our team to expand that mission globally, combining our specialized accessibility expertise with Matrix’s multidisciplinary capabilities to create environments that are not only compliant, but truly inclusive.”
Since its founding in 2004, Direct Access has advised clients across housing, municipalities, hospitality, airports, retail, and theme parks—helping design user-centered environments that support individuals with disabilities, seniors, parents with children, and anyone who benefits from more accessible and inclusive space. This next chapter ensures that impact continues to grow.
“This acquisition reaffirms our commitment to progress,” said Sal Nodjomian, CEO of Matrix. “We embrace innovation and stay true to our social and sustainable objectives. Our mission is deeply rooted in people and communities, with accessibility and inclusion at the heart of everything we do. Sustainability isn’t an afterthought; it’s integral to our vision. We are a dynamic organization that learns, adapts, and takes pride in our purpose.”
About Direct Access
Direct Access is an award-winning accessibility and inclusion consultancy founded by individuals with lived experience of disability. Established in the UK in 2004 and incorporated in the U.S. in 2022 as Direct Access Consultancy LLC, the organization delivers projects across the U.S. and globally.
Their mission is simple yet powerful: to create environments where everyone can participate fully and equally. The team goes beyond ADA compliance and building codes, helping organizations embed inclusive design principles into their culture and infrastructure. Services include accessibility audits, ADA Transition Plans, and inclusive design reviews for municipalities, housing, transport, leisure, and retail sectors.
Direct Access has partnered with leading organizations such as Starbucks, Kitsap Transit, and numerous U.S. cities to deliver ADA Transition Plans and inclusive design frameworks. The organization also holds a five-year statewide contract with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, supporting accessibility improvements across public facilities and services. Other notable clients include Pfizer and major transportation authorities, reflecting a commitment to shaping inclusive environments across hospitality, travel, and public infrastructure.
With team predominantly comprised of people with disabilities, Direct Access brings authentic insight and expertise to every project.
Shown in Photo (Left to Right): Mathieu Kolensky, Jennifer Ford, Andy Arias, and Steven Mifsud, MBE.
