The built environment encompasses the human-made surroundings where people live, work, and play. It includes physical structures like buildings and infrastructure such as roads, water systems, and transportation networks. The built environment interacts with and impacts the natural environment, influencing everything from health and well-being to the planet's ecosystem.

In buildings, neurodiverse individuals may be triggered by various sensory elements and spatial characteristics. These can include bright or flickering lights, loud or harsh noises, crowded spaces, and certain textures or smells. Additionally, design elements like excessive visual clutter, repetitive patterns, and a lack of clear wayfinding can create challenges. Some neurodivergent individuals may also struggle with social interactions in certain spaces or environments, leading to stress and anxiety. The sensory overload can lead to emotional dysregulation.

Potential triggers:

Light – bright or fluctuating lights

Sound – noise, reverberation, loud and disruptive sounds, loud machinery, light ballast hum

Touch – sensitivities to fabrics, textures, and materials

Smell – odours, perfumes, strong cleaning products

Spatial and design challenges

• Visual clutter – multiple unstandardised signage, multi-patterned space, cluttered spaces

• Repetitive patterns – tessellations, stripes

• Lack of clear wayfinding – unclear signage

• Unfamiliar spaces - sudden changes in space

Social interaction – noisy spaces, crowded spaces, sudden changes in schedule and people

Thermal comfort – too hot or too cold