Neuroinclusion
Learn about the people most impacted:
“Neurodiversity isn’t a label or a diagnosis or a feel good term. It’s the idea that neurological differences like dyslexia, like dyspraxia, like autism, are natural and important in how humans think.”
Hyper- and Hypo-Sensitive
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) although not a medical diagnosis, may be used to describe variations in our sensory experiences. Those experience can lead to over or under responsiveness.
Hyper-sensitive: Describes over responsive sensory processing. For example, some people might be hyper-sensitive to sound; they might experience certain noises as overwhelming or even painful
Hypo-sensitive: Describes under responsive sensory processing. For example, some people may be hypo-sensitive to sound; which may lead them to seek out auditory stimulation
*This is not a linear experience, rather it is a spectrum. Individuals can be hyper-sensitive in some areas and hypo-sensitive in others.
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Neurodivergent/Neurodivergence
Describes individuals whose brains function differently from societal norms. This encompasses various neurological conditions, including those present from birth (congenital) and those acquired later in life (neurodegenerative)
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Neurodiversity/Neurodiverse
A group of people is neurodiverse. This describes the infinite variation in neurocognitive styles within our population.
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Neuroinclusion
A plan, framework, and/or process for welcoming and promoting neurodiversity
Explore the following sources to learn more about what neuroinclusion could look like in:
- Architecture:
- Digital Design and User Experience (UX) Design:
- Workplace Organization:
Neurotype/"Neurodivergent Identity"
Refers to an individual’s unique cognitive profile (personal identity). It should not be assumed that each identity (ADHD, Autism, Dyspraxia, OCD, etc.) looks the same for everyone. Rather if you have met one person with autism, you have met ONE person with autism.
It is important to remember that individuals may also have co-occurrence where they experience more than one neurotype.
Neurotypical
Refers to individuals whose cognitive functioning, thinking, perceptions, and behaviors align with mythical societal standards. It is often seen as the opposite of neurodivergent.
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The 8 Senses
Our experience of the built environment is shaped by our sensory systems, how our bodies and minds take in and respond to space. Some individuals experience sensory input differently, which affects how they perceive and navigate their surroundings. By understanding the full spectrum of sensory experiences, designers can create environments that better support all users.
Other commonly used terms for each of the senses:
Auditory = Hearing
Gustatory = Taste
Interoceptive = Internal body awareness
Olfactory = Smell
Proprioceptive = External body awareness
Tactile = Touch
Vestibular = Balance
Visual = Sight
Sources:
The Eight Sensory Systems Explained
8 Senses of the Body | Exploring the Hidden Sensory Systems
How Do People Vary In Sensory Experience?
Each individual experiences sensory input differently, which affects how they perceive and navigate their surroundings. These experiences are not black and white, rather they exist on a spectrum. Sensory experience is not static, rather it changes due to temporal and spatial contexts. We can use the terms “hypo-sensitive” (under responsive to sensory input) and hyper-sensitive” (over responsive to sensory input) to speak about the variability in sensory input.
Sources:
Piccardi & Gliga, 2022
Ward, 2019
Design Frameworks
Designing for the senses begins with the individual. It moves beyond designing for the aesthetic visual sense by considering how each of the eight senses impacts sensory wellness. Often this takes the form of one-size-fits-one approach to design for the most tailored approach.
Acknowledging that this is not always feasible, the existing frameworks below highlight best practices.
Multi-sensory design
Moves away from the traditionally visual and aesthetic design models. It investigates how to design buildings in a way that promotes sensory well-being. It frames the built environment as the core focus. Successful multi-sensory design supports our social cognitive, and emotional growth.
- The Handbook of Multisensory Processes – Google Books
- Multi-sensory interactive interior design for enhancing skills in children with autism – Science Direct
- Senses of Place: architectural design for the multisensory mind – PMC
ASPECTSS
Evidence based design guidelines for individuals with autism. It maps 7 concepts for spatial design – acoustics, spatial sequencing, escape, compartmentalization, transition, sensory zoning, and safety.
Trauma Informed Design (TiD)
Integrates principles of trauma informed care with design to promote spaces of safety, well-being, and healing.
Why are Sensory Rooms Not Enough?
When we think of sensory rooms most likely an image comes to mind of a dark, enclosed room with soft lighting, fiber optic lights and soft chairs. This is a valid sensory room for one individual, however it meets the needs of only one certain individual. If we question how this space could accommodate someone who is visually impaired, prefers bright spaces or has mobility constraints we may consider alternative sensory designs. A holistic sensory experience has the opportunity to move beyond just one room.
Sources:
Grace, 2023
National Council for Special Education, 2025
Knowledge Repository
100: Core
Language Matters
Begin with words.
Keywords: Person-first language, identity-first language, ableism
100: Core
Keywords: Hyper and hypo sensitivity, sensory stimuli, multi-sensory design
200: Context
Neurocognitive Profiles
300: Change