Perkins & Willof Helen Schneider and Jaclyn Guasco share three considerations designers should keep in mind when creating inclusive workspaces.
Due to the impact of the new coronavirus infection (COVID-19), many industries are moving to a hybrid work style. As people return to the office, many companies are rethinking how the office accommodates the needs of different people. Addressing the needs of a branching workforce should be seen as the baseline for good design. Neurodiversity is a unique way of thinking and experiencing the world. 15-20% A portion of the population now, or someday, will qualify as neurodivergents. Depending on the situation, many people with divergent thinking are: protected by the ADA You have the right to receive “reasonable accommodation”.
Supporting issues that are often invisible and undiscussed, as neural differences are invisible to the outside world and entrenched social prejudices can prevent them from becoming apparent Here are three considerations designers should keep in mind when creating spaces.
1. Seeing the universe through the lens of neurodiversity
To do that, we need to net a wider range of voices than we have access to during the programming phase of the project. Research and empathy will play a large role in understanding space through the perspective of others. Be careful and thorough in the planning stage. Discuss with a wide range of staff what helps them perform best and what limits their performance. Ask for feedback in a variety of formats. Some people are more comfortable answering surveys, while others are more comfortable doing so in Focus His groups or Zoom calls. Using imagery and storytelling, we share some of the different ways physical environments can serve different needs.
Consider the effects on human senses such as sound, light, and smell. It’s becoming more and more common for brands to incorporate the sense of smell into their designed experiences. This is more common in retail settings, but it’s worth thinking about again. Smells can be irritating and distracting for some, and unbearable for others. Choose a neutral scent.
Cognitive support can sometimes look like a well-organized workplace. Labeling drawers and cabinets makes it easier to find kitchen and office supplies and put them back where they belong. For large offices, it simplifies navigation and supports movement with clear, consistent routing across offices and campuses.
2. Designing for choice
We aim to create spaces that offer a range of sensory experiences and contribute to the well-being of all: biophilia, spaces for movement, access to scenery, fresh air and natural light. We have a wide range of needs. Go beyond the kitchen and conference room. Give people options for small group meetings with colleagues, social spaces, quiet work areas, and spaces to take calls. Ideally, people should be able to choose a space that meets their needs at the moment. Consider the following different needs when designing:
- hot ——— cold
- Noisy———— Quiet
- Bright Dark
- Active ———- Gentle
- rough————- soft
- Crowded ———– one person
3. Make the most of available space
You don’t necessarily need more space to realize different types of space. Simple solutions let you adapt your space to work in different ways for different people at different times.
Blinds are an easy addition to control the amount and direction of incoming light to reduce eye strain and glare. For dark spaces far from windows, adding solar tubes has had great success. These provide a soft, filtered source of natural light.
Poor acoustics in spaces designed for focused work can be particularly distracting, depending on your type of neurodiversity. Consider surfaces such as acoustic tiles and carpets, and upholstery that absorbs sound. We offer options for privacy in your space by introducing solid doors that can be locked and switchable glass that allows light in while providing visual privacy.
A comfortable environment for all workers can be ensured if the designer deliberately considers neurodiversity in the design. Designing for general wellness and different environments gives employees choice and benefits for all, regardless of neurological differences. If space is limited or a major renovation is not possible, small purposeful additions can make an existing space more comfortable. Regardless of the scope or scale of the effort, the design process should begin with listening and empathy.
