WHAT IS NEURODIVERSITY?
According to the Frist Center for Autism and Innovation at Vanderbilt University, neurodiversity refers to the variety of ways that human minds are wired, and specifically to the idea that there are certain neurological differences which confer both challenges and gifts. Common forms of neurodivergence include Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, Dyspraxia and Tourette.
The current estimation shows that 20% of the population is neurodiverse. Including members of the SPREAD team and families.
WHAT IS NEURODIVERSITY IN DESIGN?
This approach to design accounts for the sensory needs of the multiple neurological differences of the individuals using the space. It takes into account the materials and textures, colors, lighting and acoustics incorporated into a space and how they impact people spending time in them.
SPREAD has seen the impact of positive interventions and accommodations firsthand including the impact that design can make for a variety of sensory needs. We are passionate about sharing information and insight to advocate for our needs and the needs of loved ones.
Our paths have crossed with several experts from this community, who like us, came to this work following a personal impact on their own lives. Their stories are all unique, and yet also similar. Each one inspires us to continue doing the work and share the importance of Neurodiversity in Design. Below are just a few of our friends.
“Interior design can upgrade safety, boost mood, improve relationships and increase the value of our largest investment, our home or business, and how we think, feel and behave within the space.”
-Shelly Rosenberg
DESIGNERS
Seasoned interior designer and expert thinker on supportive mindful living, Shelly brings over 20 years of experience to the interior design community. She continues to contribute to the national conversation on psychological, adaptive design and its impact on human health and well-being. She has built her career in design on the premise of “living well”, an ideology that for Shelly, goes far beyond creating beautiful spaces.
As a mother of three children, each with learning differences and special needs, her ability to identify and honor everyone’s unique design requirements has grown exponentially. Shelly has dedicated her profession to creating and designing adaptive spaces catered towards the differently abled and has a keen ability to listen to their needs first and design accordingly.
Shelly speaks to audiences around the country about Neurodiversity in Design and how designers can implement specific tactics into their clients’ projects.
PODCASTS
Work Better at Steelcase: Embracing How Different Our Brains Are with Elena Sabinson
This is Human Centered Design: Felisha Araniti ‘Let’s talk about neurodiversity within Design’
The Nexus Podcast: Designing for the Neurodiverse
VIDEOS
HOK Network: Designing for Neurodiversity & Workplace Inclusivity
Lori Weitzner: Ode to Color at Google XI Days
ARTICLES
AD PRO: Is Designing for Neurodiversity Part of Your Practice Yet? Here’s Why It Should Be
M Moser Associates: Workplace Neurodiversity: Designing for Difference
OUR STORIES
Tyler’s experience with neurodiversity began before she knew what neurodiversity was. While she knew early into motherhood that her child needed support, it took six years for clinicians and school administrators to heed her requests and properly diagnose her child. Through that journey, her husband discovered that he too had similar differences as their daughter.
Together, they did more to educate themselves on the importance of seeing people as they are and providing them what they need, intellectually, emotionally and environmentally. Through that, individuals having a greater chance of finding success and happiness throughout life.
Because of that, Tyler has made it her mission to speak to anyone about neurodiversity who will listen. From creating events and participating in industry panel discussions on the topic to serving on a task force in her school district to help address issues she and fellow parents see, she is dedicated to bringing her knowledge as a parent to the larger community as a whole.