Creating Spaces for Neurodivergent Individuals

Did you know that around 15 to 20% of the population is neurodivergent? This means that many people experience the world in unique ways due to different neurological conditions, such as Autism, ADHD, and Dyslexia.

Unfortunately, many of our indoor spaces do not meet the needs of these individuals, which can affect their comfort and overall well-being.

Today, we explore practical examples of how we can incorporate neuro-inclusive design to create spaces that support inclusivity, belonging, and well-being for everyone.

Understanding neurodiversity 

Neurodiversity includes a range of conditions that affect how people perceive and interact with their environment. For example, someone with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may find social interactions challenging and might be sensitive to certain sounds or lights.

On the other hand, individuals with ADHD often struggle with attention and impulse control, making it necessary for them to be in spaces that allow for movement and flexibility.

Then there are those with Dyslexia, who might find reading and writing difficult but thrive in environments that present clear and organized visual information.

Traditionally, interior design has focused on aesthetics - how a space looks - and functionality- how it works. However, this approach does not always consider the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals.

Modern design is shifting towards more inclusive spaces. It acknowledges the need to accommodate diverse requirements so that everyone feels comfortable and welcomed.

So, how can we make our spaces more neuro-inclusive?

Principles of neuro-inclusive design

Creating neuro-diverse spaces requires a consideration of the various sensory, cognitive, and emotional needs of individuals. These principles can help create environments that support all our needs.

Colour

The colours in a space can affect how we feel and focus. Soft, muted tones like sage green, powder blue, and lavender are ideal for neurodiverse individuals. Think of it as a comforting blanket of colours!

The 60-30-10 rule is an excellent trick for developing colour palettes: use 60% neutral colours, 30% a secondary tone, and 10% a subtle accent. This way, the room feels balanced and not too flashy.

Avoid high saturation colours like neon, bright reds, oranges, yellows, and clashing combinations like complementary colours, which can trigger sensory overload. For example, stark contrasts like black and white signage can be tricky for dyslexic people to read.

Instead, choose combinations that are easy on the eyes for everyone, including those with colour blindness.

Textures

When designing a space, it is necessary to choose materials that are soft and soothing for comfort. Visual textures, like soft gradients and natural patterns, can help create a calming environment.

For tactile surfaces, it is best to avoid shiny or jarring textures. Instead, look for gentle, repetitive patterns that don't distract or irritate. Another great strategy is to create sensory zones - areas with different textures and colours - so people can choose what feels best for them.

Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in how we experience a space. For neuro-inclusion, the best lighting is warm, adaptable, and non-intrusive. Natural light is ideal, so using sheer curtains or adjustable blinds to soften the glare can help.

Another option is to use LED lights with a warm colour temperature (around 2700K to 3000K), which mimics sunlight. It’s essential to avoid harsh lighting, like flickering or fluorescent light, that can trigger anxiety or even seizures.

Dimmable lights allow users to control the brightness, making it easier for everyone to feel comfortable.

Acoustics

Sound can significantly impact a person’s ability to focus or relax. Many spaces struggle with echoes, sudden noises, or background sounds that can be distracting or overwhelming. Consider incorporating soft furnishings, acoustic panels, or carpets that absorb sound to create a peaceful atmosphere.

Creating designated quiet zones can also help, while rubber floors or soft-close hinges can minimize unexpected noises, making spaces more serene.

Biophilic design

Nature has a magical way of calming our minds and reducing stress. This is why biophilic design is essential for our interior spaces.

We can create spaces that nurture our emotional and sensory needs by incorporating natural textures, organic visuals, and soothing nature sounds (like running water).

Evidence shows that being around nature can decrease stress, boost focus, and improve mental health. Biophilic communal spaces, like gardens or living walls, encourage relaxed interactions and help ease social anxiety for everyone.

Conclusion

As we gain a deeper understanding of neurodiversity, there is an increasing focus on inclusive design in the built environment. Designers must acknowledge that neuro-inclusive design benefits not only neurodivergent individuals but also everyone who interacts with these spaces.

Moreover, it is crucial to engage in collaborative design processes with neurodivergent individuals to ensure their experiences and preferences influence the final design.

This approach enhances our quality of life through thoughtful design and fosters a broader culture of acceptance and understanding of neurodiversity.

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