We understand that designing a house for a neurodivergent family requires careful consideration and planning. Neurodiverse individuals often have different sensory, cognitive, and social needs that may not be met by a typical layout or design. As an architect or designer, it is crucial for us to understand the specific needs of the family and tailor the design to accommodate their requirements. Here are some questions we might want to ask ourselves before designing a house for a neurodivergent family.
The way that someone might interpret and respond to sensory input can vary person to person. This is called sensory processing. A neurodiverse person may be hypersensitive or hypo-sensitive to certain sensory inputs, such as light, sound, touch, taste, or smell. It is important for us to identify which senses are most affected and how they can be supported in the home environment. For example, a person who is sensitive to noise may benefit from soundproofing in the walls, doors, and windows, while someone who is sensitive to light may need blackout shades or curtains in their bedroom. Soft textures and materials can also help if someone struggles with touch.
Cognitive differences can also affect the way a person interacts with their environment. Some neurodivergent individuals may have difficulty with memory, attention, or spatial awareness. We need to understand these cognitive needs and design the home around them. A person who struggles with memory, for instance, may benefit from labelling drawers and cabinets in the kitchen. A person who has difficulty with spatial awareness may benefit from clear signage and way finding throughout the home.
Social interaction can often be a challenge for those with neurodiversity, and a home design can either facilitate or hinder social engagement. It helps to consider how a family interacts with each other and with the outside world. If we have a client that feels they need more social interaction, we might design a communal living space, such as a family room or open-plan kitchen, at the heart of the scheme. If someone needs a bit more privacy, we can create moments where they are able to retreat, for example with a reading nook or study area.
Mobility differences can also impact the design of a space. Neurodiverse individuals may have difficulty with balance, coordination, or motor planning. We need to carefully consider the layout of a home so that we can accommodate these needs and create a smooth, coherent experience for them. For those using a wheelchair, we’ll need to factor in wider doorways, lower countertops, and ramps instead of stairs. We might also need to add grab bars in the bathroom and non-slip flooring.
Safety is our first priority in any home design, but it can be especially important for a neurodivergent family with different needs. From the outset of a project, we need to identify the potential risks and ensure the home is as secure and comfortable as possible. We think of it from the perspective of how they’re experiencing the space. This might mean adding rounded corners to furniture or using curves and upholstery to soften spaces. Or it might be as simple as having a quiet space to retreat.
Communication differences can also affect the process of designing a space and the design itself. Some people may have difficulty with expressive or receptive language, social cues, or nonverbal communication. We need to consider how the home can facilitate communication between family members and with the outside world. A person who relies on visual communication, for example, may benefit from a blackboard or pin board in an accessible location. We can also think about the connections between spaces so people can more easily see what other family members are doing.
Routines and schedules can help provide structure and predictability to those experiencing neurodiversity. We like to begin by gaining a better understanding of a client’s day-to-day life and shining a light on how they use their home. Then we can better curate a space to suit them. For example, a person who wakes up early may benefit from a soundproofed bedroom to avoid disturbing others who prefer to sleep in. Someone who has a specific morning routine may need a designated area in the bathroom or bedroom for their self-care rituals.
We want to make sure everyone in the family has a space of their own, so they can relax and feel comfortable. It can help to know how they like to spend their spare time; then, we can introduce things like a high-tech sound system if they’re into their music, or a dedicated art space or gallery wall to display their work if they’re particularly artistic.
Designing a house for a neurodivergent family requires a close understanding of a client’s specific needs and preferences. By getting to know the family on a deeper level, we can create a space that is completely tailor-made to them, helping in turn to promote a greater sense of well-being. It starts by involving the family in the design process as much as possible and listening with an open ear.