Presenter: Samantha Freitag

Faculty Sponsor: Sandy Litchfield

School: UMass Amherst

Research Area: Psychology and Behavioral Sciences

Session: Poster Session 1, 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM, 165, D14

ABSTRACT

Psychologically dismissive architecture among societal institutions has restricted neurodiverse individuals’ opportunities to expand their functional abilities. Cognitive disparities impact one’s perceptions of the environment around them, and the lack of neurodiversity-affirming design among the most “innovative” civilizations frequently contributes to overwhelmed temperaments in individuals with neurological discrepancies. Neurodiverse individuals, especially those on the autism spectrum, interpret their environmental surroundings and social interactions through a lens that diverges from their neurotypical peers, which can lead to frustration when their conditions are misunderstood. By including patterned environmental designs and acknowledging sensory sensitivities, as the Bancroft School Welsh Campus in Mount Laurel has demonstrated, architectural design can improve cognition and reduce social anxieties. This project explores the effectiveness of interior design in promoting neurological well-being for individuals on the autism spectrum. It will propose a design solution for a 400 square foot room in Worcester Commons Dining Hall, which is now allocated for reflection and contemplation. This design will consider elements such as adjustable light sources, noise-reduction materials, calming colors, and modular design elements. Clear spatial boundaries, specified sensory areas, and independent access to sensory modifications and resources will be deliberately included in the design in order to accommodate a variety of student needs.