“Neuroinclusive Design” — Designing for Diverse Perceptions
Created By RISC | 3 weeks ago
Last modified date : 2 weeks ago
Differences among people go far beyond gender, status, or education. Did you know that we also experience the world in profoundly different ways—how we perceive, feel, and interact with our surroundings?
This is where “Neuroinclusive Design”—design that embraces neurological diversity—emerges as a groundbreaking concept for the future of architecture. Whether you find comfort in silence or music, or feel uneasy under lighting that is too bright or too dim, design that consider the variety of perceptions, sensitivities, and neurological responses can transform a simple building into a truly safe space.
The goal of Neuroinclusive Design is to create environments that understand the diverse needs of individuals—children sensitive to sound, older adults facing memory challenges, or anyone whose brain simply responds uniquely to their environment. At its heart, this principle emphasizes flexibility, safety, non-judgment of differences, and adaptability to individual needs. It draws upon a wide spectrum of design elements—light levels and colors, materials, temperature, acoustics, greenery, textures, forms, partitions, and glass—each carefully considered through an understanding of how the nervous system perceives and processes space.
Although the idea may sound new or even theoretical, in practice it can be applied to everyday buildings in simple yet transformative ways. For instance, using soothing colors—earth tones or soft pastels—can promote calmness and reduce stress. Flexible lighting systems, such as dimmable lamps or adjustable blinds, allow individuals to adapt their surroundings to their personal comfort.
Another powerful yet straightforward application is the inclusion of a “quiet corner”—a private retreat for reading or reflection, shielded from noise and distraction. Acoustic materials can soften disturbances in multi-purpose areas, while the presence of greenery enhances tranquility. These features not only support children with ADHD but also provide respite for adults seeking a break from external stressors. Natural textures such as cotton fabrics or wood finishes, which avoid harsh reflections, further reinforce feelings of stability and comfort.
In workplaces, Neuroinclusive Design has the potential to elevate both productivity and wellbeing. Lower ceilings paired with focused task lighting encourage concentration, while warm tones can ease stress and brighter colors stimulate creativity. Rough textures or intricate wall patterns may even encourage curiosity, sparking dialogue and collaboration among colleagues.
Ultimately, Neuroinclusive Design is not just about understanding users – it’s a long-term investment in boosting performance, reducing stress, and cultivating an inclusive organizational culture. Because a truly great space is one where everyone can be themselves, thrive, and do their best work – no matter how they perceive the world.
Story by Nattapat Tanjariyaporn, Senior Researcher in Brain Computer Interface, RISC