GUIDING PRINCIPALS BEHIND DESIGNING FOR HUMAN WELL-BEING
First we examine the guiding principles behind designing for Autism Spectrum Condition, a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interactions and communication. It is called a spectrum disorder because of the range of symptoms and severity across individuals. When we consider the autistic experience, we can create more equitable, accessible, and enjoyable spaces for all people.
Humans have their own preferred personal space, called Proxemics. Maintaining an appropriate interpersonal distance is important for establishing effective communication and fostering relationships. In the built space, calming environments, spatial consistency and functional organization are best practices for human-centric design.
Next, we take a deeper dive into three major opportunities for implementing the guiding principals of designing for human uniqueness within a school: the entry sequence, the corridor and the classroom.
ENTRY SEQUENCE
The entry sequence begins in the parking lot, even before reaching the building. The site should reduce the amount of environmental sensory stimulants that may rise anxiety. To help people feel welcome and lower anxiety, try incorporating the following:
- Provide intuitive orientation and simple sensory driven wayfinding
- Maintain clear lines of observation with visual and acoustic transparency between spaces to promote passive observation
CIRCULATION
The hallway can be disruptive and overstimulating. The corridor should provide transition spaces for students that allow them to withdraw to safe places to “pause” during moments of high stimulus or high anxiety. To help people navigate the school and lower anxiety, try incorporating the following:
- Minimize the sensory impact of moving from space to space (thresholds)
- Design cues that aid predictability of upcoming space
- Design gradual introduction of sensory input, known as “the slow reveal”
- Plan for clear movement paths and “quiet spaces” that incorporate sound absorptive materials and appropriate space proportions
- Utilize a palette of natural materials with texture and muted color tones while prioritizing acoustical properties & durability
CLASSROOM
The classroom is where students spend much of their school day. The classroom should incorporate different zones of learning, including retreat spaces where students can withdraw to calm and/or recharge. To help students feel supported in the classroom setting, try incorporating the following:
- Design “quiet ceilings” that limit visual clutter while providing low contrast, dimmable & flicker-free LED lighting with personalized user controls
- Introduce natural daylighting strategies and minimize glare
- Provide proper ventilation and temperature controls for thermal comfortability
- Specify comfortable furniture is the appropriately sized for each age level and incorporates ergonomics to aid appropriate body positioning for learning
We have the opportunity to design schools with environments that not only consider, but foster human uniqueness. We can create environments where children feel safe, connected and valued. In these spaces, children are more likely to thrive academically, physically and emotionally which leads to a new generation of healthier humans.
