The session began by clarifying that we are all “neurodiverse,” from the simple fact that no two brains are alike. People who identify as “neurodivergent” are people whose brains function differently than established social norms, and may require accommodations outside of what is ordinarily provided. The presenters emphasized that when we design for neurodiversity, we make our designs more inclusive and functional for all.
They also clarified that neurodivergence is not a diagnosis. It is an umbrella term that encompasses many diagnosable conditions, either inherent or acquired, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, CTE, and others.
One of the primary symptoms of many neurodivergent conditions is a sensitivity to external stimuli, which can come from any of the five senses. The presentation included an interactive “sensory audit” of the lecture hall we were sitting in, where we broke up into groups to identify potential sources of sensory overload. My discussion group made note of the loud-patterned carpet, the bright glare of sunlight from the open doors, and the rigidly uniform closeness of the lecture chairs, which did not leave a lot of room for movement or personal space.
After the activity, Dr. Sabinson and Dr. Peditto presented actionable suggestions for designers to consider when designing for neurodiversity and neurodivergence. These include:
- Limiting sensory distractions. This encompasses using soft surfaces to dampen sound, thoughtful placement of loud equipment (even the background hum of standard HVAC equipment can be very overstimulating), and introducing natural and biophilic elements.
- Clear and Thoughtful Wayfinding. Wayfinding in complex buildings should be an integral part of the design process rather than an afterthought. Clear wayfinding helps people struggling with social cues feel comfortable and confident navigating the space. They also suggested making the space available to explore virtually before arrival, using an interactive app combined with 360 photography.
- Diversity of space type. Dr. Sabinson and Dr. Peditto touched on the sometimes controversial topic of the open office. Their reviews are mixed – while the open office can be a place of overstimulation and distraction, some neurodivergent people benefit from “body doubling” or having other people around to keep them focused. This emphasizes the fact that designing for neurodiversity is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The most effective designs provide accessible options for the desired privacy level, which can vary from person to person or hour to hour.
- Implementing “Co-Design” polices when working with people with disabilities. When working with people with disabilities, Dr. Sabinson and Dr. Peditto cautioned against making these groups feel as if they are being used for an extraction (or “harvesting”) of information, without full participation in the design process. Disabled and diverse people want the same seats at the drafting table.
What struck me while learning about these strategies is that they are relatively moderate and inexpensive. All of them make spaces more functional for everyone who walks through the door.
It was so fulfilling to have the opportunity to learn from experienced researchers who have devoted their careers to designing a built environment that is safer, more pleasant, and more welcoming for all. As designers, we always strive to make our buildings as functional as possible. It is important to keep in mind that even seemingly minor decisions, such as the placement of HVAC systems or the color and font of wayfinding signage, can go a long way in creating an accessible environment.
The J.E.D.I. Committee would like to extend their thanks to Dr. Sabinson and Dr. Peditto for presenting, and to all the committee members who worked to make this HSW-accredited session possible.
About Elena Sabinson, PhD – Assistant Professor, University of Colorado Boulder ENVD
Elena Sabinson is a design researcher whose transdisciplinary work spans environmental design, psychology, and emerging technologies. With a PhD in Human Behavior & Design from Cornell University, Elena’s doctoral research focused on the development of therapeutic soft robotic surfaces designed to enhance emotional well-being through sensory engagement and self-soothing activities. As a neurodivergent researcher, Elena is passionate about the role of neurodiversity in design processes. She directs the neuro D lab at CU Boulder, which investigates how design can foster joyful experiences, accommodate diverse sensory needs, and address environmental barriers, creating spaces that empower individuals across the spectrum of human experience.
Dr. Kati Peditto – Senior Design Researcher, DLR Group
As a design psychologist and a woman with autism and ADHD, Dr. Kati Peditto is personally invested in the transformative power of evidence-based design for mental health and well-being. A celebrated expert in health and the built environment, Dr. Peditto earned her PhD in Human Behavior and Design from Cornell University before completing postdoctoral work in the Cornell Department of Human-Centered Design. A New Investigator Award winner from the Center for Health Design, her research has been showcased in the Design Lab with Bon Ku podcast, The Atlantic, and the BBC. Dr. Peditto’s journey is a testament to how neurodiversity can shape and enhance our understanding of the spaces we inhabit.
