HOK workplace and practice leaders have dedicated eight years to understanding neurodiversity and cognitive well-being, striving for inclusivity in the designed environment. Leveraging their insights, this recent research in HOK west coast offices aims to bridge the gap between neurotypical and neurodivergent sensitivities, paving the way for future design practices that prioritize the comfort and well-being of all individuals.
Sensory Processing in the Workplace: Neurotype Workplace Survey
In the quest for creating inclusive and harmonious environments, HOK has delved into continuous research on neurodiversity, sensory processing, and cognitive well-being over the past eight years. The focus has been on understanding the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals, who constitute one in five people today. Recognizing that everyone's brain functions differently, HOK's recent research initiative in San Francisco sought to bridge the gap between neurotypical and neurodivergent sensitivities to sensory stimulation.
Our hypothesis from our past research was that the needs of neurodivergent individuals may not be fundamentally different from those of typical individuals but are rather more intense and specific. Therefore, the objective of the study was threefold:
1. Identify preferences and design elements impacting individuals in the built environment.
2. Discern whether the preferences of the neurodivergent population differed from those in a mixed neurotype population, and if so, in what ways.
3. Uncover design solutions that empower clients and designers to create spaces welcoming to a broader segment of the population.
Through a meticulous assessment of the general population within their San Francisco office, HOK compared findings to those from a previous survey conducted with a neurodivergent sample group. The goal was to pinpoint both similarities and differences between the two groups.
The research validated HOK's hypothesis that designing for the extreme benefits the mean. When addressing sensory processing, and mitigating cognitive distractions in built environments, the positive impact extends beyond the neurodivergent community to benefit everyone. The World Health Organization's observation that "Physical, cognitive, and social exclusion can occur at the point of interaction between the individual and an environment when there is a misalignment between them" underscores the significance of this research.
Understanding that sensory stimulation, when not well-calibrated to the diverse needs of individuals, can result in exclusion, HOK's research emphasizes the pivotal role of design in fostering inclusion. By identifying specific preferences and design elements, the findings offer a roadmap for creating environments that cater not only to neurodivergent individuals but also to the broader spectrum of the population.
As HOK moves forward, the insights gained from this research will inform future design practices. The goal is to advocate for inclusive design solutions that enhance the overall well-being of individuals, irrespective of neurodiversity. The impact of this research extends beyond the architectural realm, influencing the broader discourse on creating environments that are not just physically accessible but also cognitively and emotionally welcoming for all. HOK's commitment to neuro-inclusion sets a precedent for a more equitable and empathetic approach to design, fostering environments where everyone can thrive.
Sarah Oppenhuizen
Director of Interiors
Kay Sargent
Director of Workplace
Katelyn Hoffman
Senior Interior Designer
