Neuroinclusive design in smart home installations

Using design for inclusive solutions

Speaking to Senior Director of Technology and Standards Walt Zerbe, Trauth shared an example of neuroinclusive design principles in practice. The team at Nirvana partnered with Glendale Community College to encourage inclusive thinking in the design process.

As part of the college’s team internship program, they ran a ‘Local Business Challenge’. Their task was to make smart homes inclusive spaces for neurodiverse individuals. Speaking on the podcast, Instructor of Oceanography Ray Ridgway outlined the ‘marshmallow’ problem-solving challenge.

“The idea is that you have some spaghetti noodles and have to build the tallest structure in the quickest time. It encourages interns to break problems down into smaller pieces, using design thinking to approach a business challenge.” By questioning assumptions, such as stereotypes about neurodivergent people, this exercise helps to create a neuroinclusive workplace and home.

Practical neuroinclusive design features

One intern who was keen to learn more about the challenges neurodivergent individuals face was Ivana Nichols. “It was interesting to learn so much about neurodivergence because it’s not something I’m very knowledgeable about.”

The group focused on neurodivergent conditions including bipolar disorder, Tourette’s, ADHD and autism. Trauth adds that he too had had a lot to learn about neurodiversity, but in learning, has discovered how smart home tech can help those with sensory processing disorders:

• Customizable lighting: Those with autism spectrum disorder may have sensitivities to harsh or colored lighting. Customizing settings for dimming or timing lights may provide a more comfortable home or work environment.
• Soundproofing: External stimuli may inhibit sleep or cause anxiety in autistic people or those with other disabilities. Blocking out extraneous noise improves sleep. Meanwhile, soundproofing is common in workplace design to boost productivity. 
• Air quality control: Neurodivergent people may be more sensitive to temperature or odors. Customizable HVAC tools and purifiers promote happier homes and workspaces.

To reap the benefits of installing these features, join CEDIA today.

Customization, not categorization

A key factor in challenging assumptions is to focus on universal sensory needs. Rather than creating neuroinclusive environments for people with dyspraxia or ADHD, for example, it’s better to embrace all-round mental health and wellbeing.

Litsy, an intern at Glendale Community College, says: “There’s a lot of overlap. We want to find solutions that would benefit anyone who needs them, without targeting specific disorders.” As the spectrum is so large, this means we should look at tools to enhance brain function, from improved sleep to lessening stimuli.

Glendale’s interns acknowledge that customization is the best way to make things accessible. If neurodiverse people need a quieter environment to process information, then smart speakers or soundproofing can help.

Bringing neuroinclusive design to life

So, how exactly can smart home providers showcase these formats in real life? “Imagine a specialized Airbnb where people can experience neuroinclusive smart home technology firsthand,” says Zerbe.

These live demonstrations can help clients visualize the user experience. Integrators may also consider partnering with existing showrooms, especially if space is an issue. This opens up marketing opportunities, including social media posts and even demonstration webinars.

By collaborating with others, installers can generate revenue and offset the costs of promotion. Most importantly, they should consider the natural variation of neurodivergence. This involves looking at both under stimulation and overstimulation to support an inclusive smart home.