Design for Neurodiversity
Creating inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals
Our Design for Neurodiversity Services
Sensory Audits
Neuro-inclusive Design Consulting
Sensory / Reset Room Design
Learn more about inclusive design
SERVICE 01
Sensory Audits
Architecture & Access help organisations create environments that support focus, wellbeing, and participation – especially for people who are neurodivergent or who experience sensory sensitivities.
How our Sensory Audit Works
- Understanding individual needs
We begin by discussing current sensory challenges or barriers that may be affecting the ability to work, study or participate comfortably in the environment. This initial conversation helps us understand the unique needs of the people using the space - Gathering Broader Feedback
We begin by discussing current sensory challenges or barriers that may be affecting the ability to work, study or participate comfortably in the environment. This initial conversation helps us understand the unique needs of the people using the space - On-Site Sensory Assessment
Our team then visits the site during typical operating hours to evaluate the built environment from a sensory perspective. We examine factors such as lighting, acoustics, layout, materials, movement and other elements that influence sensory comfort. - Comprehensive Reporting & Recommendations
You receive a detailed report highlighting areas that may cause difficulty for Neurodivergent individuals or those with sensory sensitivities. We also provide practical, evidence-based recommendations to improve comfort, accessibility, and overall user experience.
Sensory Audit Highlights
- In schools, universities, and workplaces.
- We identify environmental factors – such as noise, lighting, and layout
- Propose strategies to support neurodivergent individuals
Case Study
Sensory Audit at Deakin University
“Open-plan spaces make it hard for me to concentrate. The noise and movement are overwhelming.”
Design Response:
Recommendations included creating quiet zones, acoustic treatments, introducing visual cues for wayfinding to support focus and comfort.
SERVICE 02
Neuro-inclusive Design Consulting
Neuro-inclusive design isn’t limited to dedicated retreat spaces. We advocate for whole-environment sensitivity ensuring classrooms, offices, and public spaces are welcoming and functional for everyone.
Architecture & Access partners with project teams at every stage of design to ensure environments are thoughtfully crafted with sensory wellbeing in mind. Our goal is to help you create spaces that minimise sensory stressors and enhance comfort for all users, including those who are neurodivergent or experience sensory sensitivities.
What We Do
Architecture & Access provides specialist advice to create environments that are inclusive and supportive for neurodivergent individuals.
Design for Neurodiversity Service
- Reducing sensory overload and improving spatial legibility
- Design strategies that promote comfort, independence, and engagement
- Applying evidence-based approaches informed by research, professional expertise, and lived experience
What We Assess
- Surface finishes, fixtures, and fittings for sensory comfort
- Wayfinding and signage for clarity and ease of navigation
- Lighting and acoustics to minimise stress
- Assistive technology integration
- Management and use of sensory spaces
Evidence-Based PracticeOur approach combines:
- Research into neurodiversity and design
- Qualifications in access consulting, health, and design
- Lived experience for practical, empathetic solutions
Collaborative, Best-Practice Design Input
We work closely with the entire consultant team to ensure sensory considerations are integrated into the design from the outset. This includes but not limited to:
- Acoustic Design Collaboration We coordinate with acoustic consultants to support best-practice control of sound levels, reverberation, and noise transmission – key contributors to sensory comfort.
- Mechanical & Environmental Systems Review We coordinate with acoustic consultants to support best-practice control of sound levels, reverberation, and noise transmission – key contributors to sensory comfort.
- Holistic Sensory Awareness Across the Design Team By embedding sensory considerations into lighting, materials, finishes, spatial planning and building systems, we help ensure the final environment supports comfort, focus, and wellbeing for a diverse range of users.
Creating Sensory-Smart Spaces
Through this collaborative and proactive approach, Architecture & Access helps clients deliver environments that are not only functional and inclusive, but also sensitive to the sensory experiences of the people who use them everyday
“The built environment can significantly impact a person’s ability to live independently and engage meaningfully in daily life”
— Ilianna Ginnis, Neuro-inclusive Design & Access Consultant
Recent Neuro-inclusive Design Consulting projects
Iramoo Primary School – Kindergarten
Part of the KOSS initiative by VSBA to build new or expanded kindergarten facilities on or adjacent to government primary schools.
Gordon TAFE Centre of Excellence for Inclusion in Disability Health
Located in Geelong, inclusive vocational centre co-designed with students with disability, featuring calm, sensory-led learning spaces.
Ocean Street – Mural Street, Maroochydore
Revitalisation of Ocean Street, featuring a bold new mural, creative lighting, improved transport access and enhanced public safety initiatives.
SERVICE 03
Sensory/Reset Room Design & Review
Through this collaborative and proactive approach, Architecture & Access helps clients deliver environments that are not only functional and inclusive, but also sensitive to the sensory experiences of the people who use them everyday
Creating Spaces for Self-Regulation
Sensory rooms are dedicated spaces that support emotional and sensory self-regulation. They can help extend a person’s ability to remain in public places or buildings by offering a safe, calming environment.
The rooms benefit a wide range of users, including:
- People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Individuals with ADHD
- Those who identify as neurodivergent
- Anyone experiencing temporary emotional or sensory dysregulation
Our Team Offers
- Design and layout recommendations for sensory rooms and retreat spaces
- Selection of finishes, lighting, and equipment to meet diverse sensory needs
- Reviews of existing sensory spaces to optimise functionality and comfort
Evidence-Informed Design
Architecture & Access, in collaboration with Deakin University and Amaze, has conducted user research and co-authored a design guide for sensory rooms.
While the guide provides a strong foundation, our team offers tailored design advice that considers:
- Location within the building
- Signage and wayfinding
- Room size and zoning
- Furniture and equipment selection
- Management and operational strategies
Recent research “A calm space to reset”: perceptions of sensory rooms in Australian public buildings”, report the average length of time that people reported the use of a sensory room extended their stay in the public building by 50 minutes.
Medium Sized Reset Room Example
Two sensory zones offer opportunities for sensory avoiding or sensory seeking.
- One zone can be provided for sensory seeking users (light, sensory tools)
- One zone can be provided for sensory avoiding users (darker & withdrawal seating)
- Can be spaces for self-regulation and people can bring their support with them
“I can spend more time at uni knowing that I always have that room to escape to. Sometimes the knowledge that the sensory room is there is enough to calm me down”
“I needed a quiet space away from noise and people”
Architecture & Access in partnership with Amaze and Deakin University have created a Reset Room Guide for designing spaces to support neurodivergent people.
An important message is that there is no one-size-fits-all design for these rooms.
The context of the building, the events and activities within it, and the occupant profiles – especially if they are likely to be children – are crucial considerations.
The guide is not a prescriptive manual, it provides key considerations for the design and implementation of these rooms. It recommends involving users and Access Consultants in the process.
