Designing for neurodivergent users requires a shift in perspective. Rather than assuming a “typical” user and adapting around them, the design process must begin with diversity as a given. The Seedling Centre project provided an opportunity to explore how inclusive, sensory-informed design can support autonomy, comfort, and dignity within a shared environment.

Throughout the project, it became clear that designing for neurodivergence is not about creating specialist spaces that feel separate or clinical. Instead, it is about embedding flexibility, clarity, and choice into the fabric of the design, allowing individuals to engage with space on their own terms.

Understanding sensory sensitivities and experiences

Neurodivergence encompasses a wide range of experiences, including differences in sensory processing, communication, and emotional regulation. These differences are not deficits, but variations in how people interact with their environment. Spatial design can either support or hinder these interactions.

At the Seedling Centre, research into neurodivergent experiences informed early design decisions, particularly around sensory load, predictability, and control. Environments needed to feel safe and legible, without becoming overly restrictive or monotonous.

This balance required careful consideration of how spaces were arranged, how transitions were managed, and how users might move between different sensory conditions throughout the day.

Designing for choice, not conformity

One of the key lessons from the project was the importance of offering multiple ways to use a space. Rather than assigning a single function or behavioural expectation to each area, the design allowed for flexibility in how spaces could be occupied.

This approach acknowledges that needs can change moment to moment. A user may seek quiet enclosure at one point and social engagement at another. Providing a range of spatial conditions supports this fluidity and reduces pressure to conform to a single mode of use.

Choice was reinforced through clear visual cues and zoning, enabling users to make informed decisions about where they felt most comfortable. Importantly, this choice was built into the design itself rather than relying on written instructions or rules.

Sensory regulation and emotional comfort

Sensory regulation was a central consideration throughout the Seedling Centre design. Lighting levels, material textures, and acoustic conditions were all carefully balanced to reduce unnecessary stimulation while still allowing for sensory engagement where appropriate.

Soft, adjustable lighting helped create a calm baseline environment, while variations in texture and enclosure provided opportunities for sensory grounding. These decisions were informed by research but refined through practical consideration of how the spaces would be used in reality.

Emotional comfort was treated as equally important as physical comfort. Spaces were designed to feel welcoming and non-institutional, avoiding clinical cues that might increase anxiety or alienation.

Clarity, predictability, and trust

Clear spatial organisation plays a significant role in supporting neurodivergent users. Predictable layouts and intuitive circulation reduce cognitive effort, allowing users to focus on their activities rather than navigating the environment.

At the Seedling Centre, clear zoning and consistent design language helped establish a sense of trust between users and the space. When environments behave as expected, users are more likely to feel confident using them independently.

This clarity also supports staff and facilitators, enabling them to guide users effectively without imposing unnecessary structure or control.

Learning from feedback and reflection

An important aspect of designing for neurodivergent users is remaining open to feedback and adaptation. No amount of research can fully replace lived experience, and design decisions benefit from being tested and refined over time.

The Seedling Centre project highlighted the value of reflection within the design process. By considering how users might respond differently to the same environment, the design became more nuanced and resilient.

Reflection

Designing for neurodivergent users is ultimately about respect: respecting difference, autonomy, and individuality. The lessons from the Seedling Centre extend beyond specialist settings, offering insight into how inclusive design can improve spatial experiences for everyone. By designing environments that prioritise choice, clarity, and emotional comfort, interior design can play a meaningful role in supporting wellbeing and belonging.

References:

Dunn, W. (2007). Supporting children to participate successfully in everyday life by using sensory processing knowledge. Infant and Young Children, 20(2), 84-101. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.IYC.0000264477.05076.5d