Design Changes That Made Open Offices Work Better for Neurodiverse Employees
Open office layouts have long been criticized for creating distracting environments that make it difficult for neurodiverse employees to focus and perform their best work. Industry experts have identified specific design modifications that can transform these spaces into more inclusive and productive environments for everyone. The following strategies demonstrate how thoughtful acoustic planning and intentional workspace variety can make a measurable difference in employee wellbeing and performance.
Create Layered Acoustic Choice Zones
One of the most effective sensory design moves we implemented was controlling sound dispersion rather than trying to eliminate noise entirely.
In an open plan office project in Dubai, we noticed that several employees were struggling with focus, particularly those sensitive to background conversations and sudden sound spikes. Instead of enclosing the space or adding heavy partitions, we introduced layered acoustic zoning. This included ceiling mounted acoustic panels above collaboration areas, sound absorbing wall finishes near circulation paths, and softer materials in work zones to reduce echo and sharp noise transitions.
To validate its effectiveness, we observed behavior before and after the intervention. After implementation, employees voluntarily shifted to the zones that matched their comfort needs. Feedback sessions showed reduced complaints about distractions, and managers reported longer uninterrupted work periods without forcing silence policies.
The key learning was that neurodiverse support does not require isolating people. It requires giving them control over their sensory environment. In Dubai's fast paced office culture, flexibility matters more than uniformity.
The one tip I would share with teams starting out is simple. Design for choice, not correction. When people can choose where and how they work within a space, productivity and wellbeing improve naturally.
Engage Students Early Offer Serene Options
Landmark College in Putney, Vt., is the nation's leading institution of higher education for neurodivergent students with a learning disability (such as dyslexia), ADHD, autism, or executive function challenges. The new Upper Campus Commons, currently under construction, will give the students a flexible, multi-purpose space for study, socializing, and events. In designing the space, we treated it much like an open- plan workplace, focusing on clarity, predictability, and sensory control. Above all, we wanted to create a neuroinclusive place where students felt they belonged.
We integrated expansive landscape views and a natural material palette to create a calming connection to nature. Clear visibility into the space at the building's entrance helps students feel more comfortable entering, as it allows them to see what's inside before stepping in. The flexible layout with modular furniture, continuous window seating, and small nooks give students choices for socializing or retreating. This, combined with perforated wood, felt wall panels, and soft felt light fixtures, creates a nurturing environment to help students feel at ease.
We validated these strategies through direct engagement with students and plan a post-occupancy evaluation to measure how the space performs.
For teams just beginning a neuroinclusive design project: involve end-users early, and if renovating an existing space, spend time discovering what's working and what's not before designing solutions
Adopt Flicker Free Tunable Light Controls
Flicker‑free, tunable LEDs reduce headaches and sensory strain by removing invisible flicker and harsh tones. Adjustable color and brightness let each person pick light that fits the task and mood. Simple controls at the desk give a sense of control, which lowers stress and helps focus. Warmer light can calm during deep work, while cooler light can boost alertness after lunch.
Shades to cut glare and well placed fixtures stop bright spots from bouncing off screens. Regular checks of the electronics and dimmers keep the system steady and quiet. Pilot one area with desk controls and gather feedback before using it across the office.
Implement Clear Color Coded Routes
Clear wayfinding cuts the mental effort needed to move through an open office. Bold colors on floors and walls link to simple icons that match shared tools and rooms. The same cues on every level make it easy to build a picture in the mind and reduce worry. Signs at eye level and at key turns prevent last second choices that cause stress.
Calm colors on quiet rooms help people find a reset spot fast when noise builds. Digital maps that use the same colors support planning before a visit. Create a clear color story and test it with users to make every route simple.
Establish Fragrance Neutral Policy and Robust Ventilation
A scent‑neutral policy and strong ventilation protect people who are sensitive to smells. Good filters and steady fresh air keep odors and fumes from building up. Low‑odor paints, glues, and carpets stop harsh smells before they start. Separate airflow near kitchens and printers keeps bursts of odor from spreading to work zones.
Quiet vents and balanced air speed avoid drafts that distract or chill. Routine filter changes and air checks keep clean, even air over time. Adopt a fragrance‑free policy and upgrade ventilation today.
Provide Sit Stand Desks and Privacy Screens
Height‑adjustable desks let bodies switch from sitting to standing without fuss, which helps energy and focus stay steady. Preset buttons make changes fast and cut the noise that can distract nearby people. Visual privacy screens block moving sights from aisles and reduce the clutter that can overwhelm the mind. Low screens around the field of view still keep light and air flowing, so the space does not feel boxed in.
Desk layouts that face people toward calmer zones reduce surprise approach from behind. Soft edges and steady frames prevent bumps and shakes that can startle. Add quiet sit‑stand desks with motion‑filtering screens to support steady, focused work.
Widen Aisles for Predictable Calm Flow
Wider aisles turn busy floors into calm paths that feel safe and easy to read. Extra space lowers the chance of shoulder bumps and sudden touch that can spike stress. Fewer tight spots mean less small talk pressure and fewer sudden stops. Smooth flow also reduces crowd noise, which helps people who struggle with layered sounds.
Clear walk zones create gentle ways to exit without notice when a reset is needed. The same width helps wheelchairs and carts pass without trouble, which helps everyone. Redraw aisle lines so walking paths feel open and predictable.