Why Neurodiverse Designs Benefit Us All

Photography credit: Hufton & Crow

Commercial interiors have become more inclusive than ever. Prefer a standing desk? Noise-cancelling headphones? Speak-to-text on your iPhone? A dimmer instead of an on/off switch? These tweaks might be accommodations for neurodivergent folks, but they benefit all of us.

Designing for neurodiversity is about adaptability and choice, say HLW senior designer Shelley Quinn and design director Gavin Hughes. They emphasize clear wayfinding, spaciousness, and organization—especially when designing for dyspraxia, a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects motor skills and coordination.

For a global insurance company client, the HLW team created visual cues and clear pathways with a strong color story, plus oversized meeting rooms for easy flow. Ergonomic chairs, height-adjustable desks, monitor stands, and dimmable lighting help ease sensitivities to sound and light. The client’s goal: move beyond rows of desks into an environment with one-person booths, quiet zones, and collaborative spaces so everyone can choose their comfort.

But striking the right balance takes nuance. “While some individuals thrive when given the freedom to choose how and where to work, others may feel overwhelmed and benefit from more structured cues or gentle guidance. The goal is to create a space that flexibly supports diverse needs,” they say.

Here, in this particular corporate environment, where inclusive design was a requisite of the client, four social spaces each have a distinct look to aid navigation and placemaking. But essential equipment—water tap, fridge, coffee machine—are set in the same spot across zones. “This consistency reduces the cognitive load of learning to use four different spaces,” they note.

While it may sound daunting to carefully consider each of these details, Quinn and Hughes stress empathy is key when designing for neurodiverse individuals in the workplace. “Designers should prioritize flexibility and inclusivity… understanding that every individual has unique sensory, cognitive, and social needs,” they say. “Ultimately, inclusive design enhances functionality and fosters a workplace culture grounded in empathy, respect, and belonging.” And isn’t that what we all want anyway?

—Louis Noha