Neurodiversity in the workplace

We are currently working on a difficult project that is forcing us to learn! Once you learn about neurodiversity, it sticks with you. I don’t think we will design another office space and not consider this. Our society is everchanging and the workplace is a microcosm of this, our approach therefore to the workplace needs to change too.  

I think what has really stood out to me is the simplicity of ensuring your office space caters for neurodiversity. Small changes can make a big difference to your team’s enjoyment, experience and environment so why wouldn’t you make the changes?  

Patterns 

• Patterns can be distracting for many who battle with some of the neurodiverse tendencies we encounter. Removing these, or at least reducing in focus areas will make a big difference to the focus levels of some in the office. Less is more it seems!  

Diversity of workstation  

• Providing some desks with privacy screens and an option to stand, sit, perch or work solo caters for how your team will feel throughout the day. Variety is so key in the workplace, having a set-up which caters for different ways of working across the space and fosters collaboration and communication is simple but so effective. Check out our Attensi case study to see more of this.  

Wellness rooms  

• Wellness is often an afterthought in the workplace. Whether it be mental health, menstrual difficulties or physical challenges, having a safe space in the workplace is a huge mental release for those suffering and a really easy design item to incorporate into an office design.  

Lighting 

• Providing options for different brightness levels and types of lighting in various areas supports individual preferences and enhances productivity in the workplace. Over the past 18 months, we’ve seen a significant shift away from the use of harsh white lighting, with more people advocating for alternative lighting solutions that are more conducive to comfort and focus.

These are just some of the factors to consider and perhaps quite broad and general. If your team have specific needs, the solutions can be just as simple.  

The other factors we would always include in to the workplace are inclusivity and sustainability.  

The amazing thing about these factors is, accounting for them will improve the productivity and end up reducing the spend in your workplace.