Designing for Neurodiverse Needs:

Creating Spaces that Support Every Lifestyle

As an interior designer and a mom of neurodiverse children, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is for spaces to work for those who live in them. Our homes should be places of comfort, calm, and safety—but for many families, especially those with children or adults who have conditions like ADHD, autism, anxiety, OCD, sensory processing disorders, Alzheimer’s, or dementia, this is not always the case. 

I don’t design for specific diagnoses; rather, I design for the way people live—understanding their unique challenges and incorporating design elements that enhance daily life. Creating environments that support neurodiverse needs is a simple yet powerful way to help those living in these spaces thrive. 

Why I Design for Neurodiverse Needs

As a mother of neurodiverse children, I know the struggles that come with trying to make a space that feels supportive, not overwhelming. Often, our homes aren't designed with neurodiverse needs in mind, which can make daily life harder. Rooms may be too stimulating, difficult to navigate, or lacking in the functionality we need. 

What I’ve learned is that small changes in design can make a huge difference. The goal is to create spaces that promote self-regulation, reduce overwhelm, and support independence—all without compromising on style or aesthetics. 

Simple Ways to Design for Calming and Support

Designing spaces that calm and support self-regulation doesn’t require major renovations. Simple changes can have a profound impact. Here are some key design elements I focus on when designing for neurodiverse needs:

1. Personalizing Spaces to Support Unique Needs  

Every individual is different, so personalization is a key component. When designing a child's room, for example, I take time to understand the child’s sensory preferences, hobbies, and emotional triggers. Does the child need a quiet, dimly lit space to retreat to when feeling overwhelmed? A sensory-friendly environment can include soft textures, adjustable lighting, and calming colors like blues or greens. On the other hand, a child who seeks stimulation might benefit from a vibrant, interactive space that includes sensory-rich elements—things like tactile wall features or motion-sensitive lighting. 

2. Soothing Lighting and Sound  

For children with sensory processing disorders or anxiety, lighting and sound can be incredibly important. Harsh, bright lights may feel overwhelming, while dim or soft lighting can have a calming effect. Using adjustable lighting in various rooms allows for flexibility—soft nightlights in bedrooms or hallway lights that can be dimmed, for example. Additionally, adding noise-reducing features, like thick curtains or soundproofing, can help manage noise pollution for those with heightened sensitivity to sound.

3. Safe and Functional Spaces for Everyone  

Safety is always a priority, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. For neurodiverse individuals, this may mean incorporating features that make these spaces safer and easier to navigate. In the kitchen, I often recommend induction cooktops, which are not only safer than gas stoves but also offer easier-to-clean surfaces. The inclusion of smart technology for ovens or stoves can provide automatic shut-off features—an important safety measure for families living with dementia or those who might forget things due to ADHD or anxiety. 

In bathrooms, I recommend features like slip-resistant flooring, rounded edges on counters, and easy-to-use faucets that can prevent accidents. Additionally, for individuals with cognitive or physical challenges, having a space that is easy to clean and maintain is essential for stress-free upkeep.

4. Simplified Layouts and Clear Visual Cues  

For individuals with ADHD or autism, environments that are cluttered or disorganized can increase stress. Creating spaces that feature simple, open layouts and clear visual cues can reduce overwhelm. Storage solutions that are easy to access and organize, like labeled bins or open shelves, make it easier to maintain order. Visual cues, like color-coded labels, can also help guide individuals in understanding where items belong or what tasks need to be completed. This creates a sense of autonomy and control over their environment.

5. Zoning and Multi-Functional Spaces  

Multi-functional spaces are essential in homes with neurodiverse family members. Zoning a room for specific tasks—such as a quiet corner for reading or a space for physical activity—ensures that each area supports its intended purpose. For example, a family room could be designed with different zones for relaxation, play, and sensory needs. Having clear boundaries for each space helps everyone in the household feel comfortable and supported. 

6. Safety Measures in Kitchens and Bathrooms  

In addition to thoughtful layout and furniture choices, implementing specific safety measures is crucial. In kitchens, consider installing childproof locks on cabinets where sharp objects or cleaning supplies are stored. For individuals with cognitive challenges, safety features like automatic stove shut-off timers or oven sensors that alert when the oven is left on for too long can help reduce the risk of accidents.

Bathrooms can also be made safer with grab bars near toilets and showers, non-slip mats, and motion-activated lights. For children or adults with limited mobility or cognitive impairments, these small adjustments go a long way in ensuring both independence and safety.

Final Thoughts

Designing for neurodiverse needs doesn’t require creating a “one-size-fits-all” approach, because every individual’s needs are different. It’s about creating a space that feels safe, soothing, and functional, where everyone in the household—regardless of their neurological makeup—can thrive. 

As a mom of neurodiverse children and a designer, I am passionate about helping families create spaces that truly work for them. Whether it’s designing a calming bedroom for a child with autism or adding safety features for a parent with Alzheimer’s, these small but meaningful changes can help make a big difference in daily life.

Our homes should be places that support us, not places that add to our stress. By considering neurodiverse needs, we can create spaces that allow everyone to feel comfortable, confident, and at ease—no matter what challenges they may face.