A positive, comfortable and supportive workplace is key when it comes to your business's success. Today's offices demand an environment that accommodates the diverse way in which individuals think, learn and behave. In fact, by embracing neurodiversity, you could gain a competitive edge through the unique perspectives, problem-solving abilities and creative thinking that different neurotypes bring.
It all comes down to your people. How different cognitive profiles, sensory processes, personalities, cultures and even moods (just to name a few) experience the workplace all need consideration. Only then can you create a supportive office design that will help your business thrive.
Ready to unlock the potential of your workplace? Let's dive into the world of neurodiversity in office design.
How to Design for Neurodiversity
Designing a neurodiverse office is creating inclusive and flexible environments that accommodate different cognitive profiles and sensory experiences. It's about understanding how employees perceive and process sensory information within the workplace, and then providing solutions that support each person's unique needs. Some of these sensory processes include:
- Sights
- Sounds
- Smells
- Tastes
- Touch
- Movement
Whilst this might sound complex, there are experienced office design and build experts like Gravity Office Interiors who are leading the way. Their team of commercial designers combine the science behind the different cognitive responses employees have with the art of exceptional workplace design.
Adaptive Work Areas
The key to designing a neurodiverse workplace is choice. Employees should have the freedom to decide where and how they want to work. This can be achieved by providing multiple work zones that offer different levels of stimulation.
Consider the following examples of multi-sensory workspaces:
These low-sensory environments are ideal for hyperfocus and solo-based work. Features like acoustic solutions, adjustable desk heights, dim lighting and air ventilation can all promote concentration and productivity.
These high-sensory environments inspire creativity and collaboration among colleagues. Open-plan designs, artwork and creative wayfinding solutions can all enhance the collaborative experience.
Breakout zones offer a middle ground for employees who enjoy occasional social interaction but also value individual work. Comfortable furniture, kitchen facilities and acoustic solutions can create a welcoming and comfortable environment.
These private spaces minimise noise distractions and provide a conducive environment for meetings, webinars and focus-based tasks. Features like acoustic protection, acoustic booths and advanced technology enable effective communication and concentration.
Designing an office that embraces neurodiversity not only removes stigmas but can encourage staff to return to the office. It creates a workplace that celebrates the unique strengths and capabilities of individual employees, boosting productivity and performance, as well as creating a supportive company culture. It can also widen your talent pool when it comes to recruitment - all of which are valuable assets for the profitability of your business.
Trusted Office Design and Build Experts
Gravity Office Interiors are one of the most innovative and creative office fit out companies in the South West. With their team based in Cheltenham, they specialise in creating optimal workplaces, scaled and suited to your team. Using data-driven analysis, they deliver meticulous end-to-end fit out solutions to businesses in Gloucestershire and the surrounding areas.
Gravity's experts have developed an office space calculator that uses sensory mapping and workplace profiling to effectively allocate space in your office. You'll receive a bespoke space report that provides insight into your employee's patterns and preferences, and what this looks like in reference to the available space in your office.
Better yet, Gravity Office Interiors offers an exceptional design and fit service, using their in-house team for project control and ensuring quality at every stage. Don't miss out. Embrace the power of neurodiversity in your workplace by reaching out to their team today at 01242 509208 or team@gravityofficeinteriors.co.uk.
Gravity Office Interiors is part of the Workplace Interiors Co group, providing complete workplace solutions to businesses across the UK.