Daylight and neurodiversity – creating healthy environments for all minds

There is a growing awareness and recognition of neurodiversity and the important role played by the built environment and its potential impact on those who are neurodivergent. The term neurodiversity includes a wide range of neurological conditions, including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), Developmental Coordination Disorder and Dyslexia. It is estimated that some 20% or more of the population are neurodiverse. Such estimates vary but they are increasing as awareness and assessment grows.

Sensory stimuli and processing are at the heart of neurodiversity. For many, everyday stimuli such as light, sound, texture, colour and pattern can be overwhelming, leading to discomfort, anxiety and distress. Daylight is highly valued for its ability to create a sense of connection to the outdoors. Indoors it promotes a calming atmosphere and supports circadian entrainment. Conversely, many neurodivergent people are sensitive to high levels of light, particularly artificial light, contrast, flickering, bright and saturated colours, strong and specular reflection, and busy patterns. Nevertheless, daylight exposure can be especially beneficial for neurodiverse individuals, as irregular melatonin production may cause disruptions in their circadian rhythms and lead to sleep disorders.

Research and design have an important role to play in creating informed environments that accommodate these sensitivities and deliver living and working spaces in which everyone can thrive. While current neurological definitions primarily address those with more acute sensitivities, measures designed to support these individuals can also benefit a broader population, aligning with the principles of inclusive design.

This project will:

• Consider how daylight can play a positive role in realising appropriately designed spaces for various neurological conditions and sensitivities, supported by reliable scientific evidence.
• Identify gaps in current research and practice with a view to mapping a research agenda for the DLA community and beyond.
• Catalog examples of best practice in research and design through a portfolio of existing building and research projects.
• Demonstrate how research and practice can contribute to creating daylit environments that enable all to realise their full potential.