The guide’s launch marks the culmination of understanding the need, in-depth research and expertise. It aims to assist businesses in creating best practice reset rooms.
The launch was attended by over 50 people, including people with a lived experience, representatives from state and local government, architects and design professionals, health professionals, access consultants and disability advocacy organisations.
After an introduction to the guide by David Tonge, CEO of Amaze, a panel discussed answered questions about the guide and its development. The panellists and creators of the guide included Cathryn Grant, Architecture & Access, Valerie Watchorn, Deakin University and Dr. Angela Neyland, Amaze.
The discussion explored the initial research projects that informed many of the guide’s considerations. Other areas of conversation included the three main considerations:
• Locate
• Design
• Manage
The panel also discussed the types of buildings that should include a reset room and size considerations for these rooms.
Here are some of the quotes from the panel:
Cathryn Grant from Architecture & Access: “We asked people how they felt when they came into the room and then how they felt when they left the room, so we included this in our research.”
Valerie Watchorn from Deakin University: “Reset Rooms need to be developed from hearing stories not just metrics.”
David Tonge, CEO of Amaze: “The purpose of a public Reset Room is to enable the Autistic and neurodivergent community to access public spaces. Autistic and neurodivergent people could benefit from having access to a Reset Room, as well as many others.”
Dr. Neyland from Amaze: “The best practice for organisations wanting to have a sensory room is to start with something and then get feedback from the users to improve the design or increase the capacity based on the needs that are shared by the users.”
She also emphasised the potential increased need for sensory rooms.
“I predict that there will be a growing need for these spaces as more people are becoming aware of their sensory needs that haven’t been previously accommodated.”
Image: User story published in the Reset Room Design Guide
Download the Reset Room Guide and enjoy watching the ‘explain the guide’ video.
Get in touch with Architecture & Access to discuss how we can assist you. Our team of Neuro-inclusive Design Consultants is ready to help develop a Reset Room in your building or your next project.
