Most people have experienced buildings and places with poor wayfinding features. But the anxiety of not knowing which way to go is increased for people who experience sensory overload. Navigating space without sensory overload is one aspect of Berta Brusilovsky Filer’s work. Minimising disorientation through spatial design solutions is the basis of her design thinking.
Reducing high risk conditions for disorientation and those caused by heightened sensory sensitivity makes sense for everyone. But this is more important for people who experience sensory overload.
Berta Brusilovsky Filer’s Model
The model is based on a universal design approach. This means that something essential for one group makes for greater convenience for others. Here is a brief look at the key aspects for reducing confusion.
- Neutralise the labyrinth effect: avoid designs that feel like a maze
- Ensure clarity at junctions and crossroads: make it clear where to go next
- Remove distractions that make it hard to pay attention: consider patterns and colours
- Use clear signage: simple texts, pictures and numbers: make signs specific to each area
- Design seamless transitions without abrupt changes for a smooth uninterrupted experience.
See more in Is our very own space excluding some of us? a magazine article on Berta and her work.
Berta’s research article Model to Design Accessible, Sensorial and Cognitive Spaces Methodology for Healthy and Inclusive Design provides more detail of her work.
A book on housing design
Housing neuroscience and diversity. Breathing health ebook (for purchase) covers the the variables of neurodiversity and how architecture can improve quality of life at home. The brief overview states:
“Housing as architecture has been extensively studied, encompassing structural, economic and technical factors, as well as original design solutions. This book incorporates the sensibilities, needs, and variables of neurodiversity, opening our eyes and broadening our horizons, enriching architecture by focusing on people’s quality of life.”
Designing housing for diverse users includes specific and particular characteristics of neuroscience, architecture and design, facilities, materials. Specific conditions for a variety of neurodiverse experiences that are not commonly found compiled in a single text as they are here.
Or contact the author directly – there is a PDF available but with reduced links.