Designing Sensory-Friendly Spaces with Neurodiversity in Mind

This week, we celebrate Neuro Diversity Pride Day (June 16) and Autistic Pride Day (June 18), a powerful reminder that neurodiversity is not something to be “fixed,” but something to be recognized, respected, and celebrated.

One of the most meaningful ways we can show that respect is by creating environments that embrace and support sensory differences. Whether you’re a parent designing a quiet corner at home, a teacher creating a calming classroom, or a business owner making your space more inclusive and sensory-friendly, design can make a real difference in the lives of autistic individuals.

In this post, we’ll explore practical, actionable ways to design spaces that work in harmony with the sensory systems of neurodivergent individuals, rather than against them.

What Does Sensory-Friendly Mean?

A sensory-friendly space is thoughtfully designed to minimize sensory overwhelm and offer options for sensory regulation. It supports individuals who may be hypersensitive (easily overstimulated) or hyposensitive (seeking stimulation), particularly those with autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, or other neurodivergent profiles.

Creating these spaces doesn’t mean making them dull or sterile—it means offering flexibility, safety, and comfort.

5 Practical Ways to Design Sensory-Friendly Environments

Whether you’re working with a small corner of a room or an entire building, these five elements make a big impact:

1. Sound Control

Noise is one of the most common sources of sensory overwhelm.

Try:

1. Soft furnishings, rugs, and curtains to dampen sound
2. Acoustic panels or sound-absorbing tiles
3. Offering noise-canceling headphones or quiet hours in public spaces
4. Designate low-sound zones in classrooms or clinics

2. Lighting Matters

Fluorescent lights can flicker and buzz, creating stress or headaches.

Try:

1. Natural light, when possible
2. Soft, dimmable lighting (lamps or string lights)
3. Avoiding overhead fluorescent lights
4. Letting individuals choose their preferred lighting

3. Texture and Touch

Textures can either soothe or irritate, depending on the individual.

Try:

1. A variety of safe, soft materials (velvet cushions, fleece blankets, foam mats)
2. Avoiding scratchy, rough, or highly synthetic materials
3. Offering sensory bins or fidget items for tactile exploration

4. Design for Movement

Some individuals need to move to stay regulated.

Try:

1. Rocking chairs, wiggle cushions, or small trampolines
2. Space for pacing or stretching
3. Access to heavy work activities (carrying books, pushing carts, and using resistance bands)

5. Offer Choice and Personalization

The most empowering environments allow choice.

Try:

1. Flexible seating (floor cushions, beanbags, standing desks)
2. Quiet nooks or hideaway spaces
3. Visual schedules or cue cards
4. Letting individuals create or decorate their own space

Recommended Tools & Products

Looking to get started? Here are a few of our favourite sensory-friendly items:

1. Mighty Pod Tree Tent – A cozy retreat for calming breaks

1. Tabletop Jingle Flip Fingers – Gentle auditory stimulation

1. Wood Balance Rocking Board – Great for movement and balance

1. Sponge Foam Dice – Tactile, visual, and social play

1. Weighted full body snake – For grounding and focus

Honouring neurodiversity means more than awareness—it means action. Thoughtful design is a daily expression of inclusion. And while it’s impossible to create a one-size-fits-all solution, what matters most is offering flexibility and choice.

Let’s commit to creating spaces where everyone, regardless of how they sense, move, or communicate, feels seen, supported, and safe. Because inclusion isn’t a feature. It’s the foundation.