Recognising that the industry often restricts the concept of disability to considerations for wheelchair users; our team identified a significant gap in architectural design guidance – observing that the needs of neurodivergent individuals and people with hidden disabilities is often overlooked. To address the imbalance, we embarked on a comprehensive project to bridge this divide and create a more inclusive built environment.
Taking a fully collaborative approach, the project brought together a number of our in-house design teams – architecture, inclusive design, interior design, and digital. Led by Stephanie, our in-house specialist in neurodiverse inclusive design, the project offers a unique perspective on the challenges faced by the N&HD communities and goes beyond existing industry standards, such as “PAS 6463: Design for The Mind” and “BS 8300:2018 Design of an Accessible and Inclusive Built Environment.
To apply the design guidance in real-world scenarios, our team selected a range of spaces, such as residential, catering, teaching and learning, and working environments. Building upon our previous architectural projects, we evaluated and redesigned these structures to enhance inclusivity and meet the needs of neurodivergent individuals and those with hidden disabilities.
Throughout the project, we challenged the prevailing perception that disability only pertains to wheelchair users. By broadening the conversation to encompass a wider range of hidden disabilities and neurodiversity, our team emphasised the importance of inclusive design for all individuals and our collaborative efforts resulted in a collection of redesigned spaces that harnessed our newfound understanding of inclusive design.
A pivotal milestone in the project was the development of a virtual reality (VR) simulation. Our digital & visualisation team created multiple versions of a lecture theatre, each representing different perspectives, including those of individuals with vision impairments and sensory overload.
Sharing the new knowledge externally is also key. The Clerkenwell Design Week provided an excellent platform for us to showcase the project and provide designers from various firms an opportunity to try the VR simulation, and step into the shoes of individuals with hidden disabilities.
Stephanie was also a guest speaker during the week, giving a talk on Architectural Design for Neurodiversity and Hidden Disabilities with a live Q&A session.
The feedback we received was great with visitors really enjoying the immersive experience and saying how they had gained an invaluable insight into the impact design choices have on one’s perception of space.
