It’s the little things that go a long way in creating beautiful, welcoming spaces for those with differences in abilities. It can be said that health and wellness in the home are connected to the comfort it provides. A home designed for safety and the enhancement of one’s well-being provides comfort. 

Conventional home decor and layouts may be challenging and stressful for those who may prefer softer light, are easily excitable, or prone to anxious moments. Creating a comfortable home for them, creates a home that’s comfortable (and stress free) for all. After a family trip where one member is overstimulated and anxious, a home that provides space for decompressing and reenergizing provides peace for all.

In 2019, Shelley Rosenberg founded Acorn & Oak, which offers services to help design more inclusive home spaces.

“You’re seeing a lot of physical barriers, but also emotional and mental barriers out in the real world,” she said to Domino Magazine in 2022. “More than ever, to have a little haven where you can really connect—it is the stage that you’re setting for the most intimate memories you’ll have in your life.”

So, how do we create more welcoming environments for loved ones who may need a space to hide and be still or a place to let it all out? Sensory design considers all five senses (sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste). Be it comfort, calm, or energy, designing with the senses in mind, can create comfort for everyone. Rosenberg uses this method, and we summarize her recommendations for sight, sound, and touch below.

Sight

Light: Different color lights and degrees of intensity can create different moods. Bright blue light can help with waking in the morning. Full spectrum can help focus. Warm reds can aid in relaxation. A dimmer switch is a good way to change the mood as the day progresses. 

Patterns & Colors: Depending on the sensory needs, these can provoke a negative reaction and create a stressful environment. But for some, patterns and bright colors can be used in spaces where hyper energy can exerted (i.e. playroom)

“Whether (your family member) loves sensory stimulation or withdraws from it, exposing them to different spaces to build their tolerance and flexibility in a world that isn’t always inclusive or accessible,” said Rosenberg.

In other words, exposure to different spaces in the home can aid in adapting to those same types of spaces in public. 

Sound

This can simply be a silent, maybe even sound-proofed space to re-energize. But this space doesn’t have to be dark, as it may elicit fear in some who may be unsure of things they can’t see. Relaxing music, white noise or even brown noise (i.e. roar of a river or thunder) can be helpful in this space. 

Touch

Comfort isn’t universal, especially when it comes to what touches the skin. A fabric that is visually appealing–like wool or velvet–can feel abrasive to someone especially skin sensitive. Organic cotton and linen can be a more comforting and “cozy” alternative.

There’s, of course,  more to consider than just the senses. The space should be aesthetically pleasing, but considering those who see, hear, and touch a little differently can go a long way in creating a home environment enjoyable and welcoming for all. 

To get more insight into this design process and to see recommendations for smell and taste, click here.

Photo Credit: “African American dad drawing with daughter and looking at camera in living room” by Depositphotos.com