The paper investigates how adaptive interior design can better support university students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), aiming to reduce sensory distractions and improve focus, comfort, and emotional regulation. Through a combination of literature review, expert interviews, and user-centred surveys conducted with mental health professionals and individuals with ADHD, the study identifies key spatial challenges in conventional learning environments. These include overstimulation, lack of autonomy, and rigid spatial arrangements that do not align with neurodiverse needs. Drawing from both academic research and real-world insights, the study proposes a practical design toolkit to assist architects and interior designers in creating more inclusive educational spaces. Rather than offering a onesize- fits-all solution, the toolkit is intended to guide designers toward adaptable and personalized approaches, bridging the gap between personal manifestations and spatial practice.
Inclusive Design Strategies for Neurodiverse University Learning Environments: Developing a Practical Toolkit / Attaianese, Erminia; Bohlouli, Elmira; Rezazadeh, Amirhossein; Saitto, Viviana; Barilà, Morena. - 199:(2025), pp. 319-328. ( AHFE HAWAII (2025) International Conference Hawaii, USA 8-10 dicembre 2025) [10.54941/ahfe1006844].
Inclusive Design Strategies for Neurodiverse University Learning Environments: Developing a Practical Toolkit.
Erminia Attaianese
Primo
Writing – Original Draft Preparation
;Viviana SaittoMembro del Collaboration Group
;
2025
Abstract
The paper investigates how adaptive interior design can better support university students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), aiming to reduce sensory distractions and improve focus, comfort, and emotional regulation. Through a combination of literature review, expert interviews, and user-centred surveys conducted with mental health professionals and individuals with ADHD, the study identifies key spatial challenges in conventional learning environments. These include overstimulation, lack of autonomy, and rigid spatial arrangements that do not align with neurodiverse needs. Drawing from both academic research and real-world insights, the study proposes a practical design toolkit to assist architects and interior designers in creating more inclusive educational spaces. Rather than offering a onesize- fits-all solution, the toolkit is intended to guide designers toward adaptable and personalized approaches, bridging the gap between personal manifestations and spatial practice.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.


