Key considerations for the design of sensory rooms in public buildings
Design consideration | Alignment with the Principles of universal design (Connell et al., 1997) |
|---|---|
| Location | |
| Details about location, design, and access methods should be available online | Principle 3: Simple and intuitive use Principle 4: Perceptible information |
| Sensory rooms should be in an easily accessible and visible location within a building | |
| Clear signage with supporting symbols and images should be provided | |
| Design | |
| Consider who will use the facility and their sensory and activity needs and preferences | Principle 1: Equitable use Principle 2: Flexibility in use Principle 5: Tolerance for error Principle 6: Low physical effort Principle 7: Size and space for approach and use |
| Co-design the room with people who have lived experience of neurodivergence and disability | |
| Provide sufficient space for users to move freely and to accommodate mobility aids and prams. Ensure accessibility standards are adhered to | |
| Sensory rooms should be quiet. Sound-absorbing materials can help reduce external noise | |
| Avoid bright light. User-controlled lighting is beneficial | |
| A variety of equipment and furnishings may be included. Safety, comfort, and equipment protection should be considered | |
| Provide sufficient comfortable seating for all users | |
| Management | |
| Carefully consider who will use the facility and their sensory and activity needs and preferences | Principle 1: Equitable use Principle 5: Tolerance for error Principle 6: Low physical effort |
| Consider how entry and use of room will be managed | |
| Consider maintenance and safety requirements of equipment and furnishings | |
| Alignment with the | |
|---|---|
| Details about location, design, and access methods should be available online | Principle 3: Simple and intuitive use |
| Sensory rooms should be in an easily accessible and visible location within a building | |
| Clear signage with supporting symbols and images should be provided | |
| Consider who will use the facility and their sensory and activity needs and preferences | Principle 1: Equitable use |
| Co-design the room with people who have lived experience of neurodivergence and disability | |
| Provide sufficient space for users to move freely and to accommodate mobility aids and prams. Ensure accessibility standards are adhered to | |
| Sensory rooms should be quiet. Sound-absorbing materials can help reduce external noise | |
| Avoid bright light. User-controlled lighting is beneficial | |
| A variety of equipment and furnishings may be included. Safety, comfort, and equipment protection should be considered | |
| Provide sufficient comfortable seating for all users | |
| Carefully consider who will use the facility and their sensory and activity needs and preferences | Principle 1: Equitable use |
| Consider how entry and use of room will be managed | |
| Consider maintenance and safety requirements of equipment and furnishings | |
Source(s): Table created by authors
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