HUUS, Hush pod

By AnnMarie Martin

Do you know someone with autism? Statistically speaking, chances are you do. The CDC estimates that 1 in 31 U.S. children is identified as autistic, while 1 in 6 has a developmental disability. That means more than half a million autistic young people aging into late high school, postsecondary education, vocational training, and the early workforce—plus millions of neurodivergent individuals overall—are entering the labor market within the next five years.

To properly accommodate this demographic, specialized hiring programs and tailored environments are becoming non-negotiable, as is engaging autistic voices to determine best design practices. Thankfully, the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) is making the furniture specification process more direct with the Certified Autism Resource (CAR) product designation.

This CAR list has been rigorously vetted by experts such as Stephen Shore, Ed.D., and Kerry Magro, Ph.D., both of whom identify as autism self-advocates. Kerry is actually a fellow Jersey native (fist pump!) and an award-winning speaker, who regularly lectures on the importance of true inclusion. And fun fact: He’s also served as a consultant on movies and the Netflix series Love on the Spectrum!

Here’s a list of our favorite CAR products that can improve learning spaces, workspaces, and everything in between by keeping universal design principles top of mind.

NorvaNivel, FlipOtt

NoraNivel

The 3-in-1 FlipOtt is workin’ overtime, as it’s adaptable to suit three different uses. It integrates that “heavy work” with a semi-enclosed, curved back for students with a “fort mentality,” as NorvaNivel cleverly dubs it. Create an ottoman, scooped seat, or floor rocker to promote comfort, core-stabilization, and—the holy grail—elongated focus. It comes in junior and senior editions in all standard materials and COMs, upon request.

Creative Activity, SENSORY cube + hive

Creative Activity

The Sensory Hive (open and fully padded) and Senso Cube (fully enclosed) from Creative Activity are two of our most obvious CARs. They are great for airports, schools, hospitals, or anywhere a neurodivergent individual might need a little sensory break. Both can be customized with accessories, such as bubble tubes, fiber-optic cables, starry ceilings, interactive panels, and much more. Auditory stimulation and olfactory elements can even be added. Now that’s next level!

Artcobell, Pixel

Artcobell

Artcobell’s Movement line has an overarching CAR designation, but we’re putting a little shine on Pixel, largely because of its new rocker base (which is also available in fixed glides). This adorable little floor seat comes in so many color, pattern, and fabric options and keeps kiddos moving and engaged. Pixel also has an optional convenient little caddy for easy storage and transport. One thing Artcobell is brilliant at is playing with eye levels, from counter- bar-height seating all the way down to the floor, encouraging the user to “grab a spot, any spot.”

HUUS, Hush Pod

HUUS

The Hush Pod (one of many pods by HUUS) is peace and quiet, perfected. This fully enclosable privacy chair can create a dark, quiet, natural space with a single piece of 100% wool felt, which is not only naturally sound absorbing but also flame-retardant, biodegradable, and beautifully tactile and breathable. So what if it looks like you’re being enveloped by a massive tulip! The pod works exceptionally well to cut through the noise of a hotel lobby, office, or any other bustling space.

Orangebox, Campers & Dens

Orangebox

A Steelcase brand, Orangebox has several CARs to its name. The Campers & Dens series of acoustic pods was inspired by campervans and campsites, which intuitively teach people how to engage in open spaces. This modular kit of parts, with an exorbitant number of accessories and finishing options, means no two systems will ever be alike. How apropos, as—for those of you who don’t know—there’s a saying in the autism community: Once you’ve met one autistic person, you’ve met one autistic person. ⬥