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The Importance of flooring in Designing for Neurodiversity

The importance of flooring in designing for neurodiversity

Neurodiversity encompasses a range of neurological differences, including conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more. Interestingly flooring can contribute to creating more inclusive and accommodating environments for individuals who are neurodiverse. Here's some exanples of how some of your flooring choices can support neurodiversity:

THE IMPORTANCE OF FLOORING IN DESIGNING FOR NEURODIVERSITY

 

Visual Distractions

Neurodiverse individuals, particularly those with conditions like autism can be highly sensitive to visual stimuli. Flooring can influence the visual environment in several ways:

  • Neutral Colours: Choosing calming and neutral colours for flooring can help reduce visual overload and distractions.
  • Minimal Patterns: Opting for flooring with minimal patterns or textures can create a less visually overwhelming space.

 

Structured Spaces

​Clear zoning of spaces using different flooring materials can help individuals with neurodiversity better understand and navigate their surroundings. This can provide a sense of structure and organisation.

Duraflor wrote an excellent article on Considering Neurodiversity in Office Design - looking at current wisdom and assisting designers in ensuring they consider the elements that create a neurodiverse office space.

Soundbase acoustic underlay with F Ball F49 adhesive

 

Acoustic Environment

Noise levels can impact neurodiverse individuals' comfort and concentration. Flooring choices can influence sound absorption and transmission. Individuals with ADHD can be more sensitive to auditory stimuli. Choosing flooring materials that minimise noise transmission, such as carpet tiles can help create a quieter environment that reduces potential distractions and sensory overload:

  • Carpet and Soft Flooring: These materials can help dampen sound and create a quieter environment, reducing auditory distractions.
  • Acoustic Underlay: In commercial and educational spaces, acoustic underlay can be used to further control noise levels. SASGO sell a wide range of underlays including our exclusively distributed SBA19.

 

Comfort and Safety:

Providing a comfortable and safe environment is essential for everyone. Consider:

- Anti-Fatigue Flooring: This can be especially helpful in areas where individuals might stand for extended periods, promoting comfort and well-being. Ask about our Anti-Fatigue Matting.

- Slip-Resistant Flooring: This enhances safety, particularly in spaces where impulsive movements might occur.

- Flexibility and Adaptability: Some neurodiverse individuals benefit from adaptable spaces that can cater to their specific needs at different times. Flooring choices that allow for rearrangement or the creation of different zones can support this.

 

THE IMPORTANCE OF FLOORING IN DESIGNING FOR NEURODIVERSITY 5

Altro and Neurodiversity

Creating an environment with carefully chosen flooring materials can help mitigate sensory overload, making spaces more comfortable and accommodating for neurodiverse individuals. When designing spaces to be more neurodiverse-friendly, it's crucial to consider the specific needs and preferences of the individuals who will be using the space.

Altro have created Continual Professional Development (CPD) courses that focuses on the main issues surrounding flooring and the impact it has on the wellbeing of the end-user where the products are installed. Did you know:

  • Between 30 and 40% of the UK population is thought to be Neurodiverse.
  • According to the National Autistic Society, 700,000 people (or 1 in 10) have a diagnosis of autism.
  • Furthermore, in 2021, studies showed that 50% of the UK prison population was neurodiverse.

These fascinating facts are included in the Altro CPDs on Neurodiversity.

 

The aim of these CPDs:

  • Develop the understanding of the key considerations when selecting floor coverings.
  • Outline important health and safety elements.
  • Provide installation guidance for flooring instructors.
  • Raise awareness of sensory differences.
  • Set the scene for neurodiversity in the UK.

Each CPD seminar is roughly 1-hour long and is structured to meet the flexible nature of the flooring industry and the busy work schedules of those within it. Altro CPD courses can be booked through Altro Customer Care on 01462 489516 or email cpd@altro.com.

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