Perspectives on designing for neurodiversity shared in Talking Stick

Residence hall at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Residence hall at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

November 15, 2023

Social Sharing

Neurodiverse people comprise around 20% of the population, and neurodiversity expression and needs are diverse. And it turns out that many of the environmental features that help neurodiverse people feel a sense of comfort and belonging are the same things that create spaces where all students flourish.

This is particularly true in spaces like residence halls where students develop a new sense of home, but the reality is good design fosters inclusivity and accessibility for all students in all places.

Lynne Deninger shared insight on CannonDesign's approach to design thinking and residence hall solutions that address the needs of the Whole Student in an article co-presented by the Association of College and University Housing Officers - International (ACUHO-I) and the Society for University Planning (SCUP).

The UGA Brumby Hall renovation provides de-escalation and self-regulatory spaces, along with small private spaces of refuge away from bedrooms and social spaces.
The UGA Brumby Hall renovation provides de-escalation and self-regulatory spaces, along with small private spaces of refuge away from bedrooms and social spaces.
The UGA Brumby Hall renovation provides de-escalation and self-regulatory spaces, along with small private spaces of refuge away from bedrooms and social spaces.
The UGA Brumby Hall renovation provides de-escalation and self-regulatory spaces, along with small private spaces of refuge away from bedrooms and social spaces.

Testimonials

  • Places that elevate strong environmental features that help neurodiverse people feel a sense of comfort and belonging are essential to student life.

    Lynne Deninger Principal, CannonDesign

Lynne noted that there is not a “one- size fits-all” solution. We partner with our clients to understand their unique challenges around wellness, access and equity, through open dialogue and collaboration with leadership, educators, staff, and students.

We seek a collaborative cross-market approach and cross-disciplinary research to enhance holistic student wellbeing, creating a sense of safety, comfort, and belonging, as well as supporting academic and social development and overall engagement within the campus community.

Read the full article on Talking Stick

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