Designing for neurodiversity: calm, clear and kind spaces

Why it matters

A building that overloads the senses can cause stress, anxiety or fatigue, and can stop people from taking part in school, work or public life. A building that is calm and predictable can help people concentrate, feel safe and be themselves. See also Designing for people with disabilities.

Sound

• Reduce echo with soft surfaces, absorbent ceilings and good room shapes.
• Separate noisy and quiet activities.
• Control noise from services, such as ventilation, lighting and equipment, which can be intrusive.
• Offer quiet rooms where people can step away.

A building that overloads the senses can cause stress, anxiety or fatigue, and can stop people from taking part in school, work or public life.

Light

• Prefer natural daylight, with control of glare and strong contrasts.
• Avoid flickering lights and harsh fluorescent tubes. Choose good-quality, adjustable lighting.
• Give people some control, such as dimmers, blinds and choice of seat.

Clarity and predictability

• Simple, logical layouts that are easy to understand, with clear routes and visible destinations. See Wayfinding.
• Consistent signs and symbols, with plain language and pictures.
• Avoid dead ends and confusing repeated spaces.
• Clear entrances. People should be able to see where the entrance is and what lies beyond it.
• Predictable sequences, with warning of changes, such as stepping from a quiet room into a busy hall.

Colour, pattern and materials

• Use calm, natural colours and finishes, with strong colours kept for accents.
• Avoid busy patterns on floors, walls and carpets, which can be disorienting or visually tiring.
• Choose materials with pleasant, not harsh, textures.
• Keep smells and fragrances low where possible.

Space and choice

• Provide a range of places: busy and calm, social and private, bright and dim.
• Allow people to sit with their back to a wall or look at a view.
• Give enough personal space, and avoid crowded queues and corridors.
• Include a place to retreat, such as a quiet room, a corner or a garden.

Schools, workplaces and public places

In a school, calm classrooms and quiet spaces help children who find the day demanding. In a workplace, quiet zones, choice of desk and good acoustics help focus. In a public place, clear signs, quiet hours and calm waiting areas can make a difference. See also Designing for wellbeing at work and Designing for children.

Involve people

Neurodivergent people are the experts in their own experience. Involve them in briefing and testing, and listen. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and choice and flexibility are the best principles.

In short

Reduce noise and glare, make places clear and predictable, offer choice and quiet, and listen to the people who use the building.

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