Education design for neurodiversity: Rethinking space for sensory considerations, focus, and comfort

As our understanding of neurodiversity expands, the way we approach educational design must also evolve. Conditions such as Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Dyspraxia are increasingly recognised as integral parts of human cognitive diversity. This growing awareness underscores the importance of designing educational spaces that are not only functional but better cater to the unique needs of all learners.

Reframing neurodiversity and the idea of ‘the spectrum’

Neurodiversity challenges the outdated notion of a linear spectrum of ability or disability. Rather than picturing neurodiversity on a straight sliding scale, it can be more helpful to visualise it as a collection of overlapping traits. While certain characteristics—such as sensory sensitivity, difficulties with executive function, time perception, and social interaction—may be shared across different conditions, every neurodivergent individual will experience them in their own way.

Translating this diversity into physical space requires architects and designers to create learning environments rooted in flexibility. A classroom should not enforce a one-size-fits-all approach but should empower each student by offering a variety of adaptable and sensory elements, removing barriers to learning.

Creating spaces that foster focus and sensory comfort

A student’s ability to engage in learning is shaped by their sensory environment. While some thrive in lively, dynamic settings, others are highly sensitive to stimuli. Traditional classrooms can sometimes inadvertently exacerbate challenges for neurodivergent learners. Bright lights, constant noise, and a lack of tactile or visual variety can overwhelm the senses, impacting concentration and emotional regulation.

While some students excel in social, collaborative settings, others need quiet spaces for focused, independent work. The inclusion of smaller nooks and sensory rooms for quiet regulation, one-on-one chats, or deep work ensures that individuals have spaces to retreat, recharge, and refocus.

Design interventions, such as adjustable lighting, fabrics, the use of colour and thoughtfully curated acoustics, can play a pivotal role in larger collaborative areas and smaller nooks. Incorporating acoustics in either wall or ceiling applications not only dampens noise for clear communication but also has the additional benefits or weaving colour and soft textural elements that invite touch and exploration, engaging multiple senses.

Supporting neurodiversity in education with acoustics

For students who experience sensory overload, quiet retreats—like sensory rooms—are essential. These specialised spaces are designed as low-stimulation environments, often smaller, enclosed areas featuring soft textures, muted colours, indirect lighting, and acoustic treatments. They help students regulate emotions and maintain focus. Products like Autex Acoustics’ Mirage™ panels are ideal for these spaces, reducing noise while offering tactile, textured surfaces that provide sensory comfort for neurodivergent learners.

In larger, or more open-plan areas, 18 mm Composition®, with its NRC of 0.55—the standard for educational settings—offers a durable, pinnable acoustic solution that supports both sound control and interactive learning. Quietspace® Panel is another option delivering high-performance sound absorption, ideal for reducing reverberation, ensuring every student can thrive in a calm, acoustically balanced environment.

A holistic approach to inclusive design

Inclusive design in education goes beyond the curriculum, it’s about creating environments where every student feels supported and empowered to thrive. By rethinking traditional spaces and embracing innovative solutions like Autex Acoustics Mirage, Composition, and Quietspace, designers can enrich learning experiences for neurodivergent students without compromising on aesthetics.

To learn more about specifying acoustic treatments in inclusive learning environments, reach out to the Autex Acoustics team.