By PATTY CLARK
Patty’s Point of View
Did you know that 15 to 20 percent of the workforce is neurodivergent? That’s a significant portion of your team who might not thrive in the traditional “noisy, overstimulating chaos zone.”
The good news is that simple design changes can make a huge difference in supporting them, and they benefit everyone. According to Gensler, creating a more inclusive workspace doesn’t have to be complicated.
Quiet zones, for instance, offer the perfect environment for heads-down work, big thinking, or simply enjoying your third cup of coffee in peace. After all, even brilliant minds need a little quiet. Lighting also plays a critical role. Harsh fluorescents can be overwhelming, so providing flexible lighting options, like task lights or dimmable overhead fixtures, lets individuals control their glow. This helps people customize their space for comfort, focus, and doing their best work, whatever that looks like for them.
Retreat spaces are another key element. Sometimes people just need to get five minutes away from the buzz of the office. Whether it’s to clear your head, catch your breath, or simply enjoy a moment of calm, these cozy corners offer a mental reset. And when it comes to workstations, personalization matters. Everyone works a little differently, some prefer calm and minimal surroundings, while others thrive with color, music, or movement. Customizable workstations that allow employees to adjust lighting, seating, and layout help them feel ownership over their environment. When it feels like your space, it’s easier to stay focused, energized, and in the zone.
The best part? A neuro-inclusive workspace benefits everyone. When a space is designed for those who experience the world differently, it inevitably supports the broader team, too.
To understand this more fully, here’s a quick breakdown. The term “neurodivergent” refers to people whose brains work differently; this includes conditions such as Autism, ADHD, and Dyslexia. In contrast, “neurotypical” describes people whose brains function in a way that’s considered typical or expected by societal norms.
Neuro-inclusive design goes beyond just physical accessibility; it’s about shaping environments that accommodate all cognitive and sensory profiles. The result? Less anxiety, more comfort, and greater productivity for everyone.
Inclusive design is not a final destination, it’s a journey. As we continue to learn more, we have the opportunity to build better, more supportive spaces for all. Ready to make your workplace more inclusive? Let’s get started, preferably without adding another Zoom call during quiet time.
“Neurodiversity is a biological certainty … We all process the world differently.”
Stay tuned for the next edition of “Patty’s Point of View,” where workplace trends are always made clear, current, and served with a side of fun – no snooze fests.