Considerations of the built environment for autistic individuals: A review of the literature

Abstract

Until recently, built environments have been designed exclusively to meet the needs of neurotypical populations; however, there is increasing recognition of the need to make built environments more accommodating for neurodiverse populations, including autistic individuals. This scoping review aims to comprehensively explore and synthesise this literature on the internal built environment for autistic individuals providing recommendations for designers, policymakers and clinicians. Five electronic databases were searched, resulting in a total of 28 studies being reviewed. Recommendations are provided for design and construction, lighting, sound, aesthetics, temperature and air quality. While in its early stages, evidence demonstrating the impact that particular qualities of light, colour, sound and spatial planning have on the human sensorium is emerging. In turn, this new knowledge is informing design decisions that are progressing interior environments towards inclusivity. Understanding the positive and negative impacts of decisions made in the design of the built environment has the potential to facilitate the participation and inclusion of autistic individuals. Lay abstract Factors related to the interiors of buildings, including the layout of rooms, colours, smells, noises, temperature, ventilation, colour and clutter, among other things, can change the way we interact with our environment and the people around us. Autistic individuals can have differences in processing sensory information and may find aspects of the built environment (BE) over-whelming and difficult to navigate. We reviewed the existing literature exploring the BE and autism. This study found that it is possible to make changes to the BE to create more inclusive and friendly environments for everyone, including autistic individuals. Findings from this study provide clear recommendations that can be used by interior designers, architects, builders, and clinical practitioners to make a positive difference. Key recommendations include using simple spatial layouts, compartmentalising and zoning spaces into specific activity sections and providing retreat spaces. The thoughtful placement of windows and blinds and the installation of dimmable lights, for example, will allow users to manage or reduce sensory over-stimulation caused by lights. Similarly, we recommend creating soundproofing and sound absorbent materials to reduce background noise and sound levels. We also recommend using neutral or simple colour palettes and restrained use of patterns. Finally, and most importantly, the BE needs to be flexible and adaptable to meet the unique needs of each person. This study provides a starting point for design guidelines and recommendations towards making a difference to the everyday experiences of the interiors of buildings.

A case study on the effect of light and colors in the built environment on autistic children’s behavior

“…Any autism-friendly design depends first and foremost on the end-user’s unique needs, preferences, and comfort. The design considerations for sensory-friendly spaces must be based on the core aspects of functionality, connectivity and responsiveness following a careful study of the inherent features of the built environment and after gaining a good understanding of the unique perspectives of autistic individuals ( 22 ). Design mechanisms must also thoroughly examine essential factors such as imagination, verbal/non-verbal communication, social interaction, sensory issues, behavior, and safety.…”

A more holistic approach to autism using the International Classification of Functioning: The why, what, and how of functioning

“…Unfortunately, functioning does not automatically tell us about a person’s well-being or quality of life, which must ultimately be viewed the most important outcome of holistic work. Nevertheless, many of its functional domains are known to be closely related to well-being, such as sleep (Deserno et al, 2019), self-regulation (Dijkhuis et al, 2017), the built environment (Black et al, 2022), and school and work life (International Society for Autism Research, 2018; Leifler et al, 2022). The biopsychosocial functioning model of the ICF is also compatible with positive psychology and strengths-based approaches (Seligman & Csikszentmihalyi, 2000), as well as influential dimensional research paradigms, such as Research Domain Criteria (RDoc) (Insel et al, 2010) and transdiagnostic clinical science (Astle et al, 2022; Fletcher-Watson, 2022).…”

Patterns of equipment use for autistic children in multi-sensory environments: Time spent with sensory equipment varies by sensory profile and intellectual ability

“…Finally, it is also worth considering the implications of these findings beyond education. Considerations of the built environment for autistic people commonly suggest that sensory rooms are included as part of best practice ( Black et al, 2022 ). Thus, these findings may be useful to other contexts in which MSEs are provided for autistic children such as community centres, museums, sporting events and concerts.…”