A truly good workspace is one without barriers — a place where everyone, regardless of how their brain processes information, can feel comfortable. Yet, while physical accessibility has become a standard, the architectural world is only just beginning to understand the needs of the neurodiverse mind.

The term "neurodiversity" is gaining traction, but genuine understanding often lags behind the buzzwords. To bridge this gap, the Fourth (then Workplace) studio has compiled a comprehensive report titled "Neurodiversity in the Office," to show why architecture needs to embrace neuroscience and how designing for "excluded" groups actually benefits everyone.

As the prefix "neuro-" becomes as fashionable as "eco-" once was, there is a real risk of "neuro-washing"—superficial attempts to appear inclusive without substance. The report reveals a stark reality: while many business professionals believe they understand neurodiversity, a survey conducted for the study showed that the "illusion of knowledge" is common. Only about 55% of respondents could correctly identify the basic definition.

The report takes a step back to educate, tracing the concept to 1997 when sociologist Judy Singer coined the term. Combining "neuroscience" with "diversity" (a term rooted in the civil rights movement), Singer highlighted that our brains are naturally diverse. It wasn’t until a watershed Wired magazine article in 2013 that the movement truly entered the mainstream. Today, the challenge lies in translating this political and social movement into physical space.

The report introduces the concept of "neuroinclusion"—support at the neurobiological level. While we have made strides in removing barriers for physical disabilities, sensory barriers (like lighting, acoustics, and layout) remain invisible hurdles for neuroatypical people. As the authors point out, fulfilling the need for belonging is crucial for every human being; failing to do so results in exclusion.

The "Neurodiversity in the Office" report is not just a theoretical manifesto; it is a practical guide. It includes case studies, photos of realized projects, and a checklist of small, immediate interventions that can improve office comfort right now.

Read the full Report, and if you are especially curious, you can find an interview about the report in AiB magazine

FULL REPORT
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