In contemporary architectural design, the integration of natural elements, known as biophilic design, has proven to have positive effects on the well-being and productivity of occupants. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as it can create calm and predictable environments that enhance their quality of life. In this article, we explore how the "Forest House" project implements biophilic design strategies to provide an inclusive and therapeutic home for individuals with ASD.
Forrest House
The Forest House project highlights several critical and favorable points. The kitchen and bathroom are marked in pink. A potentially critical area is the playroom, marked in orange, while the gardens are indicated with green lines. Below, each of these elements is discussed in detail:
Kitchen: Reducing Hypersensitivity
One of the critical aspects of designing homes for individuals with ASD is the kitchen. Hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli can pose a significant challenge, making it essential to create an environment that minimizes distractions and stress.
Lighting: To reduce hypersensitivity, it is advisable to use controlled natural lighting or LED lights with dimmers to adjust intensity. Avoiding flickering or overly bright lights is crucial to maintaining a calming atmosphere.
Color: Choosing soft and neutral color palettes for the kitchen can help create a tranquil environment. Pastel or natural tones are ideal, while strong contrasts and visually chaotic patterns should be avoided.
Shared Bathroom: Supporting Routine and Autonomy
In homes designed for individuals with ASD, the bathroom configuration is critical. Children with autism often function best with clear and predictable routines. Sharing a bathroom can be convenient if both children follow a schedule, but it might lead to conflicts if one disrupts the established order or if there isn’t enough time allocated for each.
Clear Routines: Maintaining established routines for bathroom use helps reduce stress and anxiety. It is essential for children to know when it is their turn and what is expected of them during that time.
Promoting Autonomy: As children grow, fostering their independence becomes important. A shared bathroom may cause tension if one child requires more privacy or time for their needs, especially if their bathroom routines differ significantly. Designing bathrooms that provide each child with their own space can be an effective solution.
Playroom: Acoustics and Visual Load
The playroom is a vital space for the development and well-being of children with ASD. When designing this area, it is essential to consider both acoustics and visual load to create a safe and comfortable environment.
Acoustics: Sound management in the playroom is crucial to minimize stress and sensory overstimulation. Using sound-absorbing materials, such as carpets, acoustic panels, thick curtains, or upholstered furniture, helps reduce ambient noise.
Visual Load: Maintaining a visually pleasant and organized environment is key to reducing anxiety in children with ASD. A simple and functional design, with minimal furniture and decoration, helps keep the space uncluttered and calming.
Therapeutic Garden: A Natural Connection for Well-being
The therapeutic garden is a key component of the biophilic design in the "Forest House," crafted to provide a multisensory environment that benefits residents with ASD.
Multisensory Approach: The garden is designed to stimulate the senses in a controlled and positive manner, offering an enriching experience without causing overstimulation.
Soothing Visual and Aromatic Stimuli: The selection of plants and flowers considers both visual appeal and fragrance, incorporating soft colors and calming scents to create a relaxing atmosphere.
Rest Area: A designated rest area provides a tranquil space where residents can unwind and connect with nature, contributing to stress and anxiety reduction.
Interactive Plants and Activities: The garden features interactive plants that can be touched and explored, encouraging sensory interaction and learning through play.
Backyard: A Multisensory Approach
The design of the Forest House backyard is rooted in a multisensory approach aimed at providing controlled sensory stimulation for residents with ASD. This space is not only a recreational area but also a therapeutic environment that promotes well-being and calmness.
Varied Textures: Incorporating different walking surfaces, such as grass, sand, or smooth stones, allows for diverse tactile interaction, offering both stimulation and relaxation.
Relaxing Sounds: Water features or wind chimes installed in the backyard produce soothing and predictable sounds, creating a serene atmosphere.
Rest Area: The backyard includes a rest area with comfortable seating surrounded by greenery, offering a tranquil refuge for relaxation.
Design Precautions: Soft and Neutral Colors
The Forest House environment incorporates essential precautions in color selection to avoid sensory overload in children with ASD.
Soft and Neutral Colors
Soft Blue: Helps reduce anxiety and stress.
Light Green: Provides a calming effect and connects with nature.
Light Gray: Offers a neutral base without being overwhelming.
White or Cream: Maintains a clean and tranquil environment.
Avoid Overly Vibrant or Intense Colors
Red: Can increase anxiety and excitement.
Bright Yellow: Overly bright tones may cause sensory agitation.
Forest House: Redefining Inclusive and Therapeutic Living
Forest House exemplifies how biophilic design transcends the traditional concept of housing to become an inclusive and therapeutic space. Through carefully considered strategies—such as the integration of multisensory gardens, the selection of calming colors, and acoustically and visually soothing design—this project addresses the specific needs of individuals with ASD, fostering their well-being and quality of life.
This approach not only underscores the importance of connecting with nature but also highlights the potential of architecture to function as a bridge to more empathetic and human-centered environments. Forest House invites us to rethink how we design spaces, placing the experiences of their inhabitants at the core.