Architect Comments on Sensory Rooms

An Architectural Design story about the rise in sensory rooms, or environments designed specifically to help children with sensory processing disorders, features expert commentary from Athina Papadopoulou, Ph.D., assistant professor of Architecture, Health and Design. She notes that individuals with autism—as well as those with ADHD, sensory processing disorders, or other neurodevelopmental conditions—may be hypersensitive or hyposensitive to light, sound, or texture. “These sensory differences can result in discomfort, anxiety, or difficulty concentrating in typical environments,” she says. “Through my research, I have found that a ‘[one-]sensory room-fits-all’ approach is not ideal,” says Papadopoulou, given that needs and sensitivities can vary greatly from one child to another.

The article also appeared on Yahoo.com.