Designing for Neurodiversity: Practical Strategies for Inclusive Spaces

Synopsis

In this interactive workshop, we will explore the principles of neurodiverse-inclusive design.
The workshop will begin with a 20-minute presentation introducing neurodiversity. We will cover fundamental design principles, including sensory zoning, wayfinding, acoustics, lighting, and colour schemes, as well as more advanced strategies for creating environments that reduce stress and enhance comfort for neurodivergent users.
Following the presentation, participants will engage in a 30-minute hands-on design activity. Working in groups, they will be given a partial floor plan and tasked with designing the missing section for their assigned user group e.g. overwhelmed staff in a hospital or community members in distress. This exercise will focus on the spatial layout but also considerations for interior finishes, textures, lighting, and other sensory features. Our facilitators will circulate among the groups, offering guidance and feedback as participants develop their designs.
To add an extra layer of challenge, the floor plans provided to participants will intentionally contain some common inclusive design mistakes. As part of the exercise, participants will be encouraged not only to complete the missing sections of the design but also to identify and suggest improvements for these intentional errors. This element aims to sharpen their critical thinking skills and reinforce their ability to spot potential barriers to inclusion, ensuring that their designs are truly neurodiverse-friendly.
The workshop will conclude with a review session where groups will present their designs, highlighting how they applied neurodiverse-inclusive principles. This review will provide an opportunity for peer learning and constructive feedback, reinforcing the concepts covered during the session.
Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how to create neurodiverse-friendly spaces, equipped with practical strategies they can apply to future projects. By blending theory with hands-on experience, this workshop aims to ensure that the knowledge gained is both engaging and memorable.