Offices are hubs of innovation, collaboration, and focused work, yet they frequently present sensory challenges—ranging from excessive noise and glare to overly bright colour schemes and unclear wayfinding. By integrating neuro-inclusive design strategies, workplaces can become more welcoming, productive, and resilient, ultimately benefiting all employees.

Sensory Zoning for Neuro-Inclusive Workspaces

A key strategy for creating a neuro-inclusive office lies in sensory zoning, which involves establishing distinct areas tailored to various work styles and sensory preferences. This approach acknowledges that employees thrive in different conditions and that one-size-fits-all environments are often less effective.

• Productivity Zones: Muted colours, off-white surfaces to reduce glare, and sound-absorbing materials help maintain a quieter atmosphere. Adjustable lighting and neutral palettes support those with sensory sensitivities, enabling them to stay focused and comfortable.
• Relaxation Zones: Incorporating natural elements, soft seating, and ambient lighting offers a place for employees to decompress. Neutral and warm colours foster calmness, while subtle patterns and textures encourage relaxation, contributing to overall well-being.
• Collaboration Zones: Small, enclosed spaces with comfortable seating and warmer lighting provide supportive environments for teamwork and idea-sharing. Earthy hues or subtle colour accents distinguish these areas without disrupting the cohesive design.

Stow Brothers Hackney office by Studio Milne | Photo by Alexandria Hall Photography

Colour Zoning Through Pigmented Accents

Building on the concept of sensory zoning, colour zoning can further clarify the function and character of different areas. Foundational tones such as F1192 Porcelana, F7603 Bio Oak, F4971 Natural Grey Felt, and F2297 Terril serve as grounding elements, creating a stable canvas for the interior.

Overlaid onto this base, F8241 Earthenware, F8857 Just Gold, F8796 Algae, and F6903 Cassis can be used to introduce purposeful variation. These pigmented colours may appear as blocks on walls, accents on furniture, or integrated within wayfinding elements, ensuring the office is both visually engaging and sensorially coherent:

• Yellow with Just Gold: Vibrant and energetic, suited to areas that require stimulation and creativity, such as brainstorming rooms.
• Orange with Earthenware: Earthy and stable, ideal for cosy, secure environments like quiet lounges or meeting rooms.
• Green with Algae: Stimulating yet grounded, perfect for breakout spaces that encourage vitality and rejuvenation.
• Purple with Cassis: Elegant and introspective, best for private areas where comfort and thoughtful work are prioritised.

Prioritising Comfort, Sustainability, and Visual Ease

Comfort and sustainability are integral to neuro-inclusive design. Hypoallergenic materials, sustainable finishes, and natural scents improve air quality and overall well-being. Visually, off-white surfaces and muted tones help prevent visual overload—particularly behind workstations—reducing stress and enhancing productivity.

A Neutral and Warm Palette for Everyday Settings

To create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the office, Nina Bailey, Formica Group’s European Design Lead, has developed a neutral and warm palette that harmoniously balances warm and cool hues.

This palette sets a calming tone, encouraging interaction without overwhelming the senses:

• F3202 Otter, F8140 Brick, F1994ML Fox Monolith, and F7912 Storm provide a comforting, grounded feel.
• F8682 Woolen Cloth introduces a small-scale, repetitive pattern that is visually soothing.
• F8812 Tinted Paper Terrazzo adds a soft terrazzo look with gentle edges to minimise visual overstimulation.
• F8584 Quercus Beige, a mid-toned oak wood decor with subtle cracks and knots, connects employees with nature, offering a hint of rustic warmth.

Blending woodgrains with neutral solids creates a seamless environment ideal for day-to-day office life.

Enhancing Wayfinding and Navigation

In more complex office layouts, clear wayfinding is vital—especially for neurodiverse employees who may find navigating unfamiliar spaces challenging. A colour-coded system, visible from a central atrium or “street,” helps individuals easily locate their destination, reducing anxiety. Ensuring that different work areas are both visually accessible and intuitive allows employees to select the environment that best supports their tasks, whether focusing, collaborating, or unwinding.

Neuro-inclusive office design harnesses the power of thoughtful zoning, carefully chosen colour palettes, sustainable materials, and intuitive wayfinding to create environments where everyone can thrive. By meeting the diverse sensory needs of employees, organisations foster a culture of understanding, productivity, and well-being—setting the stage for long-term success and innovation.

Interested in learning more about neuro-inclusive design? Explore our series on how colours such as black & white, yellow, grey & purple can shape inclusive interiors for neurodiverse individuals. Start from the beginning here.