Did you know that approximately 1 in 7 people in the UK are neurodiverse? Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in human thinking, encompassing conditions like ADHD, autism, and dyslexia.

With neurodiverse individuals making up 15% of the workforce, creating inclusive office environments is essential for businesses aiming to support all employees.

Employers who understand the unique perspectives of neurodiverse employees can benefit from innovative ideas and fresh problem-solving approaches. But it’s important to make specific design adjustments so that everyone has somewhere they’re comfortable working.

At its core, designing an office that caters to neurodiverse team members is about creating a balanced, flexible, and responsive environment that promotes wellbeing and productivity for all employees.

Here are four key ways businesses can adapt their office spaces to support neurodiverse talent and build an inclusive, welcoming work environment.

1. Sensory-Friendly Design

For many neurodiverse individuals, sensory overload is a real concern in modern office settings.

Features like bright lights, loud noises, and crowded spaces can make it difficult to focus and stay productive.

Incorporating sensory-friendly design principles means providing spaces where people can go for a more comfortable working environment that matches their personal preferences.

• Create calm zones: Quiet areas where employees can retreat from the buzz of the office are essential. These spaces should have soft lighting, comfortable seating, and soundproofing to reduce distractions. Noise-reducing materials like acoustic panels can also make a big difference.
• Thoughtful use of colours and materials: Muted colours and natural materials can instill calm, helping to avoid overstimulation. Avoid using bold patterns or harsh lighting, which can be overwhelming for some.
• Mindful scent scaping: Introducing scents into the workplace can sometimes enhance mood or focus, but for those with a hypersensitivity to smell, it can be disruptive. Ask your team before using any fragrances in the workspace to ensure it won’t disrupt them.
  
  

2. Flexible Workstations

No two people work the same way, and some people may have specific ergonomic or sensory needs.

Providing flexible workstations empowers your employees to tailor their environment to suit their unique preferences and work styles.

• Adjustable desks and chairs: Sit-stand desks and adjustable chairs allow people to personalise their workspace to help them stay comfortable and focused.
• Quiet working areas: Open-plan offices are designed for collaboration, but they can be overwhelming for those who are easily distracted. Offering enclosed workstations or noise-isolating work pods gives neurodiverse employees the choice to work in silence when needed, improving concentration and reducing stress.
  
  

3. Sensory-Friendly Amenities

Beyond the design of individual workstations, providing sensory-friendly amenities can make a huge difference to your people’s wellbeing.

Breakout areas, quiet rooms, and noise-cancelling solutions give people the chance to recharge in ways that suit them.

• Noise-cancelling headphones: Providing noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs is a simple yet effective way to help employees manage the office soundscape. Great for blocking out distractions, this small adjustment can create a more pleasant work experience when the bustle of the office gets too much.
• Sensory-friendly break areas: Offering varied environments for breaks is crucial. Some employees may prefer dimly lit, quiet spaces to unwind, while others may enjoy bright, airy rooms with natural light. The key is to provide a range of options to ensure everyone can recharge in the way that suits them.
  
  

4. Inclusive Communication

Effective office design goes beyond furniture and lighting; it’s also about how people navigate and interact with a space.

Clear signage, visual wayfinding tools, and support networks are all critical for creating a neurodiverse-friendly office.

• Visual wayfinding: Simple, clear signage can reduce anxiety and help employees feel more confident in their surroundings. Neurodiverse employees, in particular, can benefit from visual cues that make it easier to navigate the office, especially if they are new to the team.
• Employee resource groups: Employee resource groups focused on neurodiversity provide a formal channel for people to give ongoing feedback, ensuring that you continue to evolve your workplace in a way that benefits everyone.
  
  

Why Neurodiverse Design Matters

Designing for neurodiversity isn’t just about meeting the needs of a specific group—it’s about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all employees.

If you're considering an office redesign or looking for ways to make your workspace more inclusive, we’d love to help.

At Blueprint Interiors, we specialise in creating bespoke, people-centric workplaces that support the needs of diverse teams.

Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can create a workspace where everyone can thrive.