Sensory architecture in service of disability
In France, 90% of healthcare facilities are designed according to our "normality," yet they are unsuitable for dependent populations. However, an "ordinary" environment generates a pervasive level of stress and anxiety in individuals affected by autism and intellectual disabilities. The approach of sensory architecture and inclusive design aims to improve the well-being of these individuals and promote their autonomy.
Sensory Architecture: What Is It?
Still relatively unknown in France and Europe, sensory or inclusive architecture involves designing spaces specifically for populations considered dependent. By dependent, we mean individuals affected by intellectual disabilities and/or neurodegenerative diseases such as:
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ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder);
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Intellectual disabilities;
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Cognitive disorders.
In architecture and design, sensory experience is a key value. Every space in a building—through its lighting, materials, colors, and spatial volume—can evoke different emotions.
For individuals with mental disabilities, heightened sensory perception is a daily challenge. The way they experience sight, touch, smell, and hearing can be different, and sometimes amplified. A noisy environment, for instance, can trigger anxiety attacks or aggressive reactions. In this context, sensory or "inclusive" architecture aims to create a welcoming and adapted environment that supports various therapies (cognitive, behavioral, educational).
The ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life for individuals with neurodegenerative diseases or intellectual disabilities and foster their autonomy. At the same time, it also helps care teams apply their therapies under optimal conditions.
Do you have a sensory architecture project?
The Awakening of the Scarab: An Example of Sensory Architecture
Completed in 2018, The Awakening of the Scarab is an experimental building for autistic adults located in Champcevrais, in the Yonne region. Born from a desire to improve the living environment for disabled individuals, particularly those with autism, it also offers a "different" approach. Through contemporary architecture that contrasts with the typical hospital building, The Awakening of the Scarab provides a warm environment that gently and progressively stimulates the senses. Every element of the design and furniture serves practical daily functions (acoustic insulation, volumetrics, ergonomics, etc.).
It is perfectly suited to individuals with disabilities who may suffer from hypersensitivity or hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli.
In 2018, The Awakening of the Scarab received the first architecture prize at the ADC Awards. It was also selected by the Winston Churchill Foundation in Canberra, Australia, as one of the five most representative buildings on autism worldwide.
The three principles of sensory architecture.
Kindness or Benevolence
Kindness is at the heart of the concept of inclusive architecture. It is important to move away from so-called "hospital" technical standards and focus on the real needs and well-being of dependent populations. Both indoor and outdoor environments must be adapted to the different conditions of the occupants. As for anxiety-inducing atmospheres, they must be avoided at all costs, along with any other potential sources of stress.
The sensory aspect.
Architecture plays a key role in shaping individuals' behavior. To address the hypersensitivity of people with autism spectrum disorders, sensory elements must be handled with care and gentleness. When designing a space for these populations, concepts such as light therapy, proxemics (social distance), and acoustic comfort must be considered in the project specifications
Evolution
This approach, which aims to perceive the world of difference through sensory architecture, is a relatively recent concept. Extensive research allows us to progress day by day and encourages us to question our thinking. To create an environment that is ever more suited to individuals with autism, it is essential to move forward without fearing mistakes.
Un projet de conception d’une maison d’accueil ?
How to Design an Inclusive and Caring Space?
Create a Building and Outdoor Spaces on a Human Scale
For a future resident of a specialized care home (MAS - FAM), a medico-educational institute (IME), or a day activity center (CAJ), the first impression is crucial. Therefore, it is essential to avoid overly hospital-like aesthetics and instead create a building with human-scale volumetrics that reflect the feelings of its inhabitants. The building should be open to the surrounding world and feature fluid spaces bathed in soft natural light.
The entrance must be welcoming, transparent, and unobstructed. It should be smooth and gradual. The gradual progression of light contrasts between the interior and exterior plays a key role in this regard.
A landscaped pathway between the public space and the building entrance is the perfect example of a design that promotes well-being and creates a pleasant first impression. More generally, maximizing vegetation in outdoor spaces is a great way to engage the occupants' senses. Vegetable gardens, orchards, and floral gardens are highly encouraged.
Make Volumetric Perception the Core of the Project
Volumetric perception is a crucial factor to consider when designing an inclusive space for individuals with autism. While some may prefer open areas with high ceilings, others may seek the comfort of lower heights for a sense of protection.
To ensure that everyone can find their appropriate volumetric perception, it is important to play with the characteristics of each space. For example, a bedroom could have a lower ceiling to enhance this feeling of protective volume.
The same approach applies to horizontal circulation spaces. Common areas should include visual sightlines and multiple retreat zones. These offer a sense of calm during moments of anxiety.
The transition between spaces should also be smooth to avoid inducing stress. Preference should be given to doors with windows on the side to reduce the feeling of uncertainty.
Ensure Acoustic Comfort
Noise disturbances such as echoes, impact sounds, or external noises can be a source of stress for individuals with disabilities. To create an inclusive and caring environment, special attention must be given to the acoustics of the building. To reduce these disturbances, several methods can be used, such as:
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Choosing acoustic drywall and absorbent fabric for the false ceiling
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Installing sound traps
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Using dense materials with absorbent qualities
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Ensuring proper window insulation.
Manage Natural Lighting
Natural light affects mood, cognitive and intellectual performance, the cardiovascular system, the secretion of certain hormones, and metabolism in general. It is essential for individuals with intellectual developmental disorders (IDD) or autism spectrum disorders (ASD). To effectively manage indoor natural lighting, we recommend the following adjustments:
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Use of mashrabiya screens on large windows to filter light
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Translucent curtains inside the building
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Floor-level windows, especially in the bedrooms
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Skylights in the building with a view of the sky
Good to know: It is important to consider the building’s orientation to avoid overheating in the summer. Openings to the east and southwest are ideal for providing good natural light.
Adapt Rooms for Light Therapy
When night falls or brightness decreases, artificial lighting should gradually take over in a soft and natural way inside the building's rooms. Similar to Snoezelen spaces, light therapy promotes an inclusive experience that either calms or energizes the mind, depending on its use. A peaceful, soothing, and slightly colored ambiance with minimal contrast helps regulate moods while providing spatial and temporal cues.
Prioritize Furniture with Inclusive Ergonomics
In the context of inclusive sensory architecture, the ergonomics of furniture plays a crucial role. This furniture must be designed to meet the physical and cognitive needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities. It should be:
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Protective
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Adjustable
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Easy to clean
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Comfortable
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Easily accessible
It is also essential to consider the management of space between individuals and objects (proxemics) and the sense of position and movement (proprioception).
Well-designed furniture can drastically improve well-being, as well as autonomy and stress reduction for those who use it. It is essential for facilitating the lives of individuals affected by disabilities.
4o mini
Propose Colors and Materials Suitable for the Space
While the use of colors is recommended, it should be tailored to the specific conditions (Alzheimer's, autism, Down syndrome, etc.). Colors can serve as spatial markers in communal life (to differentiate spaces/rooms), but they should not be overwhelming or obsessive. Softer pastel tones are preferred in smaller spaces, and markings or high-contrast patterns should be avoided.
As for materials, it is best to use natural construction materials free of chemicals and biocompatible. The emission of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) should be class A+. Opt for durable materials that do not stain to avoid a sense of degradation over time.
Good to know: It is not recommended to use materials that are too hard, as they may become areas for self-harm.
Respect Different Levels of Privacy
Public spaces (such as the dining room, playroom, living room, etc.) can be a source of tension and stress for individuals with cognitive disorders. To reduce this pressure, it is important to create multiple private spaces between the public and intimate areas (such as the bedroom).
Small rooms (alcoves, small lounges, etc.) allow residents to gather in small groups and provide a decompression zone. This is key to peaceful cohabitation.
Promote Pleasant Circulation Within the Building
Circulation is a key element for the sensory comfort of a building. Hallways should be spacious, as they have a significant impact on the mental state of both individuals with and without disabilities. They also serve as places for encounters with staff and neighbors. A circular circulation design is preferred, without any backtracking, using soft and curved shapes to encourage a "walking" feeling and open up the field of vision. Promoting strolling rather than moving from one room to another is a good way to calm temperaments and enhance the sense of well-being. Retreat areas with seating, such as alcoves with views of the outside, encourage interaction and provide essential natural light.
Our approach is to rethink the design of healthcare facilities and living spaces to move away from traditional hospital buildings. These structures do not meet the needs of dependent populations, making it crucial to adapt our architectural environments. We must build differently by considering the various factors that influence the psychological and physical well-being of residents. Concepts such as light therapy, proxemics, and overall volumetry should be the foundations of inclusive sensory architecture.
Our References in Sensory Architecture
Here are some of the key projects related to sensory architecture and the design of spaces for individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities:
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2023 — ADMR Les Maisonnées: Design competition for a MAS (Maison d'Accueil Spécialisée) in Azay-le-Rideau, for individuals with complex autism-related conditions.
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2023 — ADAPEI 45: Construction of a highly specialized care building (MAS) for 6 people with ASD and associated developmental disorders in Ingré (45) (delivery in 2024).
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2022 — LE VINATIER: Design competition for a research center for individuals with autism at Le Vinatier in Lyon.
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2022 — UNAPEI ALPES PROVENCE: Feasibility study for the Pannouse Complex ESAT – FAM – MAS in Marseille.
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2021 — ARS de CORSE: Creation of a guide on sensory architecture and design for healthcare institutions.
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2021 — LADAPT: Consultancy for the CAJM of Mesnil-Esnard for people with autism. Negroni Archivision - Architect and designer.
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2021 — TATTONE: Redesign of the UHR of Tattone in Corsica.
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2021 — TATTONE: Redesign of the MAS of Tattone in Corsica.
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2021 — S.I.C.P.R.H: Design competition for an IME (Institut Médico-Éducatif) in Bussy St Georges (77).
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2020 — ABSL ROUVEROY: Application of the "Éveil du Scarabée" concept to create a MAS for 20 individuals in Rouveroy,
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Belgium.
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2019 — ARS de CORSE: Architectural audit for healthcare facilities including EHPAD, SESSAD, MAS, IME, PASA, and Alzheimer's units.
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2019 — Entraide Universitaire: Project for an IME & SESSAD for 40 children with autism in Ecouen (95).
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2019 — FHMS Fondation Handicap Mental et Société & EPI: Creation of an experimental apartment for people with intellectual disabilities (Autism) in Geneva (Switzerland).
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2018 — UMCS: Project for a MAS for individuals with autism in Ajaccio, Corsica.
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2018 — EHPAD de Champcevrais: Project for a PASA (Pôle d’Activités et de Soins Adaptés) for individuals with Alzheimer's disease.
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2017 — L’Éveil du Scarabée: Construction of an experimental building, MAS for individuals with autism (2018 first prize in architecture at the ADC Awards).
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2017 — LES SOPHORAS: Project for a vertical extension of a MAS for 20 individuals with autism in Marseille for La Panouse.
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2016 — SOLEIL AME: Project for a MAS for 20 adults with autism in Laragne Montéglin.
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2016 — CHÂTEAU BOURRON: Project for a restaurant dedicated to vulnerable people.
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2016 — LES PETITES VICTOIRES: Project for a FAM (Foyer d'Accueil Médicalisé) for 24 adults in Paris 11.
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2016 — ENTRAIDE UNIVERSITAIRE: Project for an IME & SESSAD for 40 children with autism in Domont (95) Negroni Archivision — Architect and designer.
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2016 — ONDULATION: Design competition (1st prize) for the creation of connected furniture for people with intellectual disabilities.
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Since 2018 — Personal direction of a sports facility "Handiboxe" (LE RING PARISIEN) for individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, and elderly people with cognitive disorders. More than 40 members to date.
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June 14, 2024 – Round Table: "Architecture and Sensory Design on the Theme of Professional Support" (GNCRA) at the Palais des Congrès in Rouen
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April 3, 2024 – Conference: "Presentation of Our Concept: Sensory Architecture and Design" (AUTISME RESSOURCES HAUT DE FRANCE).
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September 20, 2023 – Symposium: "Sport and the Brain" (FRANCE ALZHEIMER) at the Maison de la Chimie in Paris.
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October 26, 2022 – Radio: "The Revenge of the Oppressed" (FRANCE CULTURE).
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April 19, 2019 – Round Table: "Sport and the Inclusion of Disabled People in Society" at DASES (Direction of Social Action, Childhood, and Health) in Paris 18.
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September 21, 2018 – Interview: "The Well-being of Patients Also Depends on Architecture" (FRANCE INTER).
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November 9 & 10, 2017 – Round Table: "Is There Such a Thing as Compassionate Architecture?" at the Multipurpose Hall, EPI La Combe, Collonge-Bellerive, Canton of Geneva, Switzerland.
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April 11, 2017 – Conference: "Therapeutic Architecture" at the Ecole Supérieure de Design, La Martinière in Lyon.
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February 18, 2017 – Round Table: "Housing and Asperger's Syndrome" at Aspie Days – The first international exhibition in France on Asperger's Syndrome in Lille.
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March 5, 2016 – Conference: "Architecture and Autism" with Arco Iris13 & Autisme France in La Penne-sur-Huveaune.
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December 26, 2014 – JT DE FRANCE 3: "L’Éveil du Scarabée" (FRANCE TELEVISION).