Designing for Sensory Diversity:
Towards an Embodied Experience in Furniture For Neurodivergent Inclusion
Research Framework
How might we design furniture to help individuals with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) navigate sensory overload and contribute to their journey towards more independent lives?
How might furniture designed to support sensory regulation contribute not only to personal independence but also to shifting societal attitudes toward the capabilities of neurodivergent individuals?
Research Questions
52 weeks
Project Duration
Role of Designer
Autodesk
Autocad
Miro
Procreate
Figma
Adobe
Illustrator
Trimble
Sketchup
Enscape
Adobe
Lightroom
Tools Used
Sensory overload limits the self-regulation capacity of adults on the neurodivergent spectrum because careless designs of spaces, furniture, products and experiences create obstacles that hinder their ability to achieve independence and thrive in daily life.
Problem Statement
Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) was associated with a reduction in stress and an increase in positive emotional states for adults with autism.
Conceptual Devolopement
In therapeutic contexts, animals often serve as social bridges, gently encouraging individuals to engage more openly with their surroundings (Gabriels et al. 2015)(Wijker et al. 2153).
This insight directly informs the conceptualization of the sensory chair-a piece designed to replicate similar therapeutic benefits through material, form, and interaction- much like a therapy dog.
Sthira refers to a quality of inner solidity.This perfectly describes the desired outcome of using the chair: to cultivate an internal sense of calm and resilience even when external or internal stimuli are overwhelming. Just as a therapy dog offers unconditional acceptance and comfort, the Sthira chair aims to be a consistent and reliable source of support during moments of distress.
Drawing from insights on sensory sensitivities, it integrates soft-touch materials, gentle pressure elements, and user-centered features that promote calm and autonomy in overstimulating environments of Singapore.
This research and design exploration was developed as part of my Master’s in Design Communication at Lasalle College of The Arts. It has been conducted through multiple rounds of interviews, observations and user-testing with audience on the neurodivergent spectrum with the ethical permissions taken at every point.
This portfolio brings together work from across my academic and professional journey, spanning multiple design disciplines. It is presented as a shopping cart of ideas with each object leading to a different part of the site.