Designing workplaces that embrace neurodiversity

Thoughtful design for neurodiverse needs

Creating a truly neuroinclusive workplace involves making specific design changes that cater to employees' unique sensory needs. A deep understanding of individual needs is essential for implementing these changes effectively.

Dyslexia and clear design

It’s estimated that dyslexia, which primarily affects reading and writing skills, affects up to 10% of the UK population. Importantly, these individuals can be some of the most creative, innovative, and effective of a team’s workforce, but will interpret certain design features differently. Large walls of text, abstract fonts or written signs can challenge people with dyslexia, so it’s an opportunity to think differently and convey information using visual imagery, iconography or clear lettering.

Supporting employees with dyspraxia

Dyspaxia impacts physical coordination and can present challenges in daily tasks. Simple adjustments in the workplace can make a huge difference. For instance, widening doorframes, simplifying door handles, and offering step-by-step instructions for navigating the office or using appliances like the coffee machine can provide greater accessibility. These thoughtful design changes ensure that the workplace is not just accessible to neurodivergent individuals but also benefits everyone by creating a smoother, more intuitive environment.

Design for the long-term

It's essential that these adaptations are not afterhoughts but integrated from the start of the design process. Making these changes from day one ensures that the workplace is genuinely inclusive and doesn't inadvertently exclude those it intends to support.

The power of inclusivity in driving success

The business case for getting this right is impossible to understate, and will likely assert itself in unconventional and unexpected ways. One of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, outcomes is the message that it sends to people who haven’t felt confident enough to ask for their needs to be met.

In a world where thinking differently is worth its weight in gold, we are stifling our ability with workplaces that don’t cater to neurodiversity, or don’t acknowledge that different types of thinking require different spaces. When organisations acknowledge that different cognitive styles require different environments, they unlock the power of innovation and creativity.

True inclusivity doesn't just enhance individual success - it fosters collective growth. A culture of inclusion fuels success, which in turn drives even greater inclusivity, creating a self-sustaining cycle of innovation and productivity.

Office design initiatives that are neuroinclusive

Here are some key design initiatives to consider that are neuroinclusive.

• Focus zones for deep concentration.
• Breakout areas for informal discussions or relaxation.
• Movement areas for physical activity, encouraging better focus.
• Collaboration zones where employees can work together in teams.
• Quiet areas that promote calm and minimize distractions.
• Lighting. Lighting plays a crucial role in neuroinclusivity. Prioritise natural light to reduce eye strain and improve mood, dimmable lights to allow for personalisation of brightness based on individual needs. For more tips on lighting, check out Creative office lighting ideas to brighten up your workspace.
• Nature and sensory stimulation. Integrate plants and nature into the office environment. This promotes sensory engagement and helps reduce stress, which can be particularly beneficial for neurodiverse individuals.

Peldon Rose’s collaboration with Brainlabs is a great example of creating a space that fosters creativity and focus for diverse minds. The design included various zones for quiet work, collaboration, and relaxation, catering to the specific needs of their team.

In summary

Adapting workspaces for neurodiverse employees is crucial to ensuring all employees can thrive in their environment.

Tips for adaptation include creating different zones for focus, movement, collaboration, and quietness, while also paying attention to lighting and sensory engagement through nature, to accommodate all cognitive and sensory preferences.

Designing for neurodiversity in the workplace enhances both individual wellbeing and overall productivity. To learn more about how to create an inclusive workspace, explore our News & Insights hub.