Sensory design and sensory spaces have various interpretations. In its simplest form, sensory design involves creating spaces that engage our senses (visual, olfactory, auditory, tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive). These spaces are often found in museums, where interactive sensory displays engage multiple senses simultaneously. For the public, a well-designed sensory space might include quiet, secluded areas away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, surrounded by nature and rich textures—an ideal example of balanced stimulation.
For sensory design intended for individuals with autism, the approach is quite different. It involves considering their specific limitations and sensory challenges. For instance, they may struggle with wayfinding, feel overwhelmed in colourful environments, and be sensitive to certain stimuli such as bright lights and loud noises. Additionally, they may require more personal space due to difficulties with mobility and learning.
Designing for them means catering to their structured routines. Helping them know what stimuli to expect helps them overcome difficulties and navigate their environment with ease. With them, consistency, keeping things visual, predictability, and readily available help in case of unexpected problems are the keys to successfully designing spaces for autistics.
The Current Reality
Autism—while many studies, discoveries, and findings have emerged since the term was coined in 1911, much remains to be concluded and developed in the field, particularly in the care of individuals with autism. In the United Kingdom, approximately 700,000 people are diagnosed with the condition, and about one in a hundred children are affected by autism spectrum disorder.
How Autism is Diagnosed and Affects Daily Life
Autism is a broad term for a group of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. Common characteristics among these individuals include impaired speech, motor skills, and difficulties in social interactions. Signs of the condition typically appear during childhood development. They may find academics challenging and struggle with basic social interactions, such as making friends or communicating appropriately.
Within the autism spectrum, conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, auditory processing disorders, Tourette’s syndrome, OCD, giftedness, can be broadly categorized according to their sensory responsiveness: hypersensitivity (easily overwhelmed by stimuli), and hyposensitivity (unaware of their environment).
Given the complexity of the autism spectrum, it is not surprising that built environments are rarely designed with autistic individuals in mind. However, the growing call for inclusivity for those with disabilities has recently highlighted the importance of sensory design.
The Approach to Sensory Design for Users with Autism
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may experience sensory challenges across one or more of the seven senses. Thus, it is crucial to consider various factors to avoid overstimulation.
• Visual: ASD individuals can be easily distracted or triggered by visual stimuli. Therefore, the choice of colours, textures, and materials should be carefully considered. Avoid bold or irregular colours; if surfaces are textured or shiny, rethink their placement. It is also advisable to use colour psychology: cool tones like light blue and white are recommended for task-focused rooms, while light greens, blues, and pale yellows can inspire positivity and relaxation. Bright, bold colours like red, blue, and orange can boost energy and appetite. Additionally, glare from the sun and flickering lights can be distracting, so providing blinds and ensuring lights are well-maintained is advisable.
• Auditory: For individuals with auditory sensitivities, using acoustic materials on walls and ceilings can help manage noise levels. Calming background music and sounds can benefit both hypersensitive and hyposensitive individuals. Avoid placing noisy spaces next to areas where they may have to complete tasks or where their focus is required, and always make sure loud, shrill noises are prevented.
• Olfactory: For individuals with olfactory hyper and hyposensitivity, places that may have strong or confusing smells should be located away from areas designated for learning or concentration. Pools, cafeterias, kitchens, and gyms should be situated far from classrooms or work areas. Using pleasant, calming scents, like lavenders, or very mild herbal scents may also be used in moderation to keep them calm.
• Vestibular and Proprioception: A common challenge for individuals with ASD is a lack of spatial awareness and difficulty with way-finding. Simple, easy-to-understand visual aid can help in navigation, while legible signs and reduced use of long corridors and complex layouts can improve accessibility. Visual cues and windows providing views of interior spaces can also be beneficial. Giving them a clear picture of the rooms they’re going into may help prevent them from getting lost.
• Quiet/Safe Spaces: Regardless of how well an environment is controlled, individuals with autism may still feel overwhelmed. Unexpected occurrences – even the smallest ones- may trigger reactions from them. Therefore, providing quiet or safe spaces where they can retreat and allow their senses to relax is essential. These spaces should feature calming colours and minimal stimuli to reduce any potential discomfort, and are best located in secluded, areas or along corridors.
Conclusion
While significant progress has been made in creating controlled environments for individuals with autism, the challenge remains in applying these principles on a larger scale within our cities. The growing recognition of sensory design tailored to the autism spectrum underscores the need for environments that accommodate unique sensory profiles.
By prioritizing thoughtful, inclusive design that considers both hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity, we can create spaces that enhance the daily experiences of individuals with autism while fostering a sense of belonging and well-being. As awareness and advocacy continue to evolve, it is imperative that we remain committed to implementing these principles across all aspects of society, ensuring that everyone, regardless of neurological differences, can thrive in their surroundings.
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