Design for Autism

Interior spaces can have a positive influence on individuals with

neuro-diversities by modifying aspects such as lighting, colour, textures, acoustics, ventilation, and spatial layout. This applies not only to their home environment, but also bringing these applications into common places such as educational and therapeutic environments, outdoor spaces, and more.

My personal journey with Autism starts at home with my two children. Both on the spectrum, I have learned that the interior design of

our home plays a massive part in assisting them to cope and retreat

when necessary, and by doing so, enables them to approach the wider environment with greater ease and confidence. The last few years I have been digging deep into how to make spaces that allow for the individual to cope with new situations, environments and places whist allowing retreat with lessened sensory trauma. Designing for Autism can be a complex process as every individual is just that - an individual. Each and every person on the spectrum has different strengths and sensitivities which need to be taken into consideration. There is no 'one stop' solution and at times, there may also be no 'easy' answers as to what

works best - it may be a journey of exploration as I work with clients

and their OT's to develop optimum solutions for wellbeing.

Let me give you an example of how design can help...

Many neuro-diverse individuals have sensitivities to light -

especially when it comes to fluorescent lighting. My son literally

sees the flicker of the light whereas I hear the buzz of the driver.

In both cases, we find our brains overloaded with the sensory

stimulation and this leads to migraine and fatigue whilst limiting

the amount of other sensory inputs that we can process. LED lighting gives some relief as the drivers of an LED light are designed to provide LOW-FLICKER output. I have now sourced NO-FLICKER lighting options that can be used in both in homes and also in commercial application. This form of lighting is not only beneficial to people on the Spectrum, but also for people with epilepsy, acquired brain injuries and more.

If you or a family member might benefit from this service, please contact me and ask for more information.