All Together Now

All Together Now
Report
Authors
Aparna Anirudhan Sandhya Lakshmanan
Research - Head Research - Manager
Copyright © 2023 ZYETA.

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All rights reserved.
All Together Now
People are the backbone and driving force of any organization. As

leaders seek innovative solutions to gain a competitive advantage in
their rapidly changing industries, the importance of assembling a
dynamic, diverse, and inclusive workforce capable of delivering
sustained and exceptional business results is increasingly recognized.
Reimagining the workplace to better empower and accommodate

employees is a crucial element in unlocking their full potential. It is
Executive imperative to understand that accessibility is a crucial aspect of

creating an inclusive environment, where employees feel valued and
Summary supported in their unique needs and abilities.
This guide serves as a valuable resource to create workspaces that are

not only accessible but also optimized for neurodiverse individuals. It
provides a comprehensive outline of the key design considerations that
can be considered to create environments that are accommodating and
conducive to productivity and employee satisfaction. By embracing this
approach, organizations can take an important step towards fostering a
diverse and inclusive workplace ecosystem.
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All Together Now
∞ Introduction 5
∞ Understanding Neurodiversity 8
∞ Designing for Neurodiversity 11
Contents ∞ Universal Design and Multisensory Design 23
∞ Designing for All Abilities 29
∞ Conclusion 33

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All Together Now
Introduction
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All Together Now
The Rights of Persons with Disability Act 1 of 1995

mandates that persons with disabilities be provided with
equal opportunities and protects their rights to full
participation. This, therefore, requires workplaces to be
designed to suit the needs of all persons with disabilities.
Over time it has come to our realization that not all

disabilities are visible. As the significance of diversity,
inclusion, and equity in the workplace becomes increasingly
recognized, it is evident that accommodating only those with
physical disabilities is insufficient. Instead, it is necessary to
consider the diverse needs of the entire workforce.

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There are many different types of disabilities, both visible and

There are over 1 billion disabled 2
invisible. It's important to note that disabilities can range in
people worldwide, many using public
severity and may fluctuate over time, it can be permanent, spaces every day.
temporary, or situational.
Disability is a spectrum categorized broadly as:

Physical disabilities: paralysis, amputation, or cerebral
palsy.
Sensory disabilities: Blindness, deafness, or speech
impairments.
Cognitive disabilities: dyslexia, dyscalculia, or attention
deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Mental health disabilities: depression, anxiety, or
bipolar disorder.
Chronic health conditions: diabetes, epilepsy, or
multiple sclerosis.
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Understanding
Neurodiversity

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Where Neuro means brain, nerve or

nervous system and Diversity means
the state of being diverse; variety, the Tourette’s ODD Anxiety OCD
collective term of Neurodiversity means

the range of differences in individual
brain function and behavioural traits, Down
Neurodiversity includes
Syndrome SID DCD Trauma
regarded as part of normal variation in the but is not limited to:
human population. The concept of
neurodiversity has raised awareness
around people with ADHD, autism Dyslexia ADD Autism ADHD
spectrum disorders, dyslexia, dyspraxia

and other neurological diagnoses.
*Around 15% to 20% of the population is neurodivergent.
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“I wish a word like ‘neurodiversity’ had existed

when I was younger, because there were plenty of
other words that got thrown around in its absence.
Neurodiversity means to be part of the diversity of
humanity. It means different, not flawed – and The neurodiversity symbol, a rainbow infinity sign,
describes the diversity of human brains3.
everyone is different. That’s something I could
have done with knowing as I grew up.”
Understanding the science behind neurodiverse
- Florence Welch, singer
personalities:
Neurological differences in personality are explained by the

response to Dopamine “happy hormone” that provides us
with the motivation to seek external rewards such as
socializing, exercising, eating and professional
achievements.

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Designing for
Neurodiversity
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Neurodiverse people offer unique perspectives and interpretations

of the world. Organizations of all sizes in all industries can benefit
from supporting neurodiversity at work and tapping into the skills
and talents of neurodivergent workers. Hiring neurodivergent
workers can offer a competitive edge, often bringing financial and
cultural benefits.
Neurological arousal from external stimuli

Too much - Stress, lack of productivity and inability to concentrate
Too little - Boredom and diminished motivation
Therefore, in order to enhance our cognitive, physical, and emotional

functioning, we need to ensure that office design facilitates an
optimal level of environmental stimuli. We need to design for the
entire spectrum of human reasoning and sensory intelligence.

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Skills the neurodiverse workforce bring Difficulties the neurodiverse

to the workplace may include: workforce face at the workplace:
Innovation and creativity Over or under stimulation
Technical, design and creative strengths Inability to concentrate
New ways to solve problems Burnout
High levels of concentration Stress and Anxiety
Keen accuracy and ability to detect errors Absenteeism/presenteeism
Strong recall of information Low energy and motivation
Detailed factual knowledge Underperformance
Reliability and persistence Diminished cognitive functioning
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Designing spaces for Hyposensitive personas
Persona Spectrum Level

Note: does not accommodate the full range of
Mathew tends to seek out stimulating surroundings potentiality of the human brain.
that are busy, buzzing atmospheres, surrounded by
chatter, music, and bright colours. By doing this she
feels energized and can reach his optimal level of Hyposensitive
performance.
Traits
Neurotypical
Extrovert
Less sensitive to dopamine
Under-stimulated by environments
Pronounced engagement with external Hypersensitive
stimuli to raise low cortical arousal level.

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Focus work /
Creation
Innovation /
Collaboration
Learning /
Communication
Socializing/
Rejuvenation
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Spatial configuration
• Open, free-flowing spaces that encourage movement and
Typical activities impromptu interaction
Physical calls and meetings with team-members Acoustics

Walking around the office to interact with • Buzzing atmosphere- surrounded by chatter, and music
colleagues Furniture
Coffee at the café with colleagues • Furniture with options for movement and adjustment for
Occasional use of focus zones for individual work personal preferences
Works well in groups
Colors and Textures
• Vibrant colors
• Stimulating patterns
• Surface layering of textures and planes

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Designing spaces for Hypersensitive personas
Persona Spectrum Level

Note: does not accommodate the full range of
Gaurav tends to seek out areas away from noise
potentiality of the human brain.
and distraction that allows quiet focus and
introspection. By doing this he can concentrate on
tasks and perform to his best ability. Hypersensitive
Traits Neurotypical
Introvert
Higher dopamine sensitivity
Over-stimulated by the environment
Avoid external stimuli to minimize their Hyposensitive
already high cortical arousal levels.
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Focus work /
Creation
Innovation /
Collaboration
Learning /
Communication
Socializing/
Rejuvenation

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Spatial configuration
• Orderly spaces with defined special boundaries
Typical activities • Semi-enclosed screen options
Seeks out quiet corners for focussed work • Low ceilings to create more intimate spaces
Prefer to have meetings or calls one-on-one in smaller Acoustics
meeting rooms or pods respectively • Acoustic panels on the walls and ceiling to reduced acoustic
Tends to seek out respite in the form of art (pottery or and visual distraction
sketching) or gardening Furniture
Seek out a dimly lit or naturally lit room/space to • Comfortable
perform daily tasks. • Design elements for privacy
Colors and Textures
• Light neutral tones
• Organic simple patterns
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Proxemics is ‘the branch of knowledge that deals with the amount of space that people feel it necessary to set between
themselves and others.
The varying interpretations of proxemics play a determining role in the type of spaces individuals are naturally drawn towards.
People can have very different requirements for personal and social space which might be for culture/ethnicity/neurological
reasons. Lack of space can cause anxiety or tension in certain situations for everyone, but some people may experience a
much higher level of anxiety.
Intimate Space - (0’ – 1.5’)
Personal Space - (1.5’ – 4’)
Social Space - (4’ - 12’)
Public Space (12’ +)

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The Neurodiverse Workplace – The Power to Choose
Focus work /
Creation
Innovation /
Collaboration
Learning /
Communication
Socializing/
Rejuvenation
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General considerations for the Neurodiverse Workplace

Lighting
• Configurable lighting with controls to dim or
brighten focus and ambient lighting
• Access to as much natural light as possible.
Prioritize air quality
Recent times, many individuals who
• Invest in HVAC equipment and maintenance to
embrace the concept of neurodiversity
believe that people with differences do not
facilitate healthy air quality and circulation to limit
need to be cured; they need help and any intrusive smells.

accommodation instead. Biophilia
- John Elder Robison, scholar • Introducing biophilia and natural elements to
create a calming influence
Proxemics
• Requirements for personal and social space to be
considered. Proxemics is important while
designing neurodivergent spaces.

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Universal Design
and Multi-sensory
Design
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Universal Design
“Necessary for some, useful for all”
Universal Design(UD) is a concept that originated in the

late 1980s, with the goal of creating products and
“Universal Design is the design of products and environments that can be used by all people, regardless
environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest of their age or ability. It was developed as an alternative
extent possible, without the need for adaptation or to traditional design approaches which often excluded
specialized design.”
certain groups from being able to use them effectively.
- Ron Mace, architect,
UD also extends beyond just physical accessibility by
‘Father of Universal Design’4
creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels
welcomed and respected no matter their differences.

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Several factors contributed to the emergence of UD. Some of them are outlined below:
Assistive Technology: The development of assistive technology, such as wheelchairs and hearing aids,
made it possible for people with disabilities to participate more fully in society. However, these
technologies were often specialized and expensive. UD aimed to create products and environments that
could be used by everyone, including people with disabilities, without the need for specialized equipment.
Design Theory: The emergence of design theory in the 1980s and 1990s, which emphasized the
importance of user-centered design and usability, also contributed to the development of UD. Designers
began to recognize the importance of designing for diverse user groups, including people with
disabilities.
The Principles of UD: In 1997, a group of architects, product designers, engineers, and environmental
design researchers convened at North Carolina State University to develop the Principles of Universal
Design. These principles provided a framework for designing products, environments, and services that
are accessible and usable by everyone.
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Principles of UD3
Simple and Intuitive Use Appropriate Size and Space for Approach and
Use of the design is easy to understand, Use
regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, Appropriate size and space is allotted for
or language skills. approach, reach and manipulation regardless of
physical characteristics such as size or mobility
Equitable Use
The design is useful and marketable to people
Tolerance for Error
with diverse abilities.
The design minimizes hazards and the adverse
consequences of accidental or unintended
Flexibility in Use
actions.
The design accommodates a wide range of
individual preferences and abilities.
Perceptible Information
Low Physical Effort The design communicates necessary information
The design can be used efficiently, comfortably, effectively to the user, regardless of ambient
and with a minimum of fatigue. conditions or the user’s sensory abilities.

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Multisensory Design
Design that embraces human diversity.
Humans comprehend the world using their various senses, with

everyone having varying levels of proficiency in each sensory
modality. The senses work together to enhance each other, and Sensory design activates touch, sound, smell, taste, and
the wisdom of the body. Sensory design supports
when one is lost, the others become heightened. By making minor
everyone’s opportunity to receive information, explore the
modifications to current designs, people with disabilities can be
world, and experience joy, wonder, and social connections,
integrated into society rather than having to rely on separate
regardless of our sensory abilities.
systems. Multi-sensory design is a form of intelligent and - Ellen Lupton and Andrea Lipps
inclusive design that promotes integration and equal ‘The Senses: Design Beyond Vision’
opportunities. It can be applied to a range of industries, including

architecture, product design, advertising, and healthcare. It seeks
to create products, environments, and services that engage all the
senses and provide a more holistic and engaging user experience.
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The different ‘senses’ of Multi-sensory design
Visual Auditory Gustation/Olfactory Tactile
Dark/Bright Loud/soft Invigorating/Soothing Static/Mobile

Saturated/Neutral Far/Near Appealing/Putrid Rough/Smooth
Perspectival/Flat Fast/Slow Natural/Industrial Light/Heavy
Intimate/Vast Constant/Responsive Weak/Intense Hot/Cold
Solid/Void Natural/Artificial Stagnate/Fresh Hard/Soft

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Designing for
All Abilities
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Designing for visibility
1. Clear and unambiguous wayfinding and

signage in appropriate colors, font,
sizing, lighting and locations.
2. Installation of visual cues and digital
displays at strategic locations
3. Curved corners to enable better field of
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vision
4. Spatial awareness through 360 degrees
2 visibility to improve people’s orientation
UD related pointers:
4 3
5. Accessibility ramp to the building entry
6 1 with route to the elevator
6. Doors, entry ways, circulation pathways,
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windows and handles designed for easy
5 usage of wheelchair and crutch users.

7. Accessible bathroom
Focus work Innovation Socializing Learning
Services
Creation Collaboration Rejuvenation Communication

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Designing for tactility

1. Tactile maps at the entrance, designed
to be read by touch
2. Installation of an accessible elevator
operation system.
3. Include tactile guiding blocks while
5 designing circulation for cane users

6
4. Change the texture of wall and include
tactile grooves through the space to
help with space orientation
7 5. Flooring that is anti-skid/ non-slip and
of materials that do not impede the
4 movement of mobility aids

6. Space allowance for white cane users
2
3 7. Wayfinding elements and handrails
1 with brail / tactile markings
8. Provide individual temperature
controls, to enable users to adjust their
Services thermal environment.
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Designing for audibility, gustation and olfactory senses.

1. Installation of sound beacons with
auditory feedback in crosswalks at
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strategic locations to enable people
to locate themselves
2. GPS integration with a mobile device
to assist in wayfinding
6 3. Ambient soundscapes to create
different auditory pacemakers to aid
in navigation and wayfinding
5 6
4. Design outdoor and indoor spaces
with provide varied acoustic
1 5. Create a scent scape - include
odorants that will improve occupant
health and wellbeing
4 6. Food and coffee points placed near
the entrance to create a great
entrance experience.
Services

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Conclusion
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Designing for inclusivity in workspace design is essential to creating

an environment that promotes collaboration, creativity, and
productivity. By considering the unique needs of all individuals who
might use a space—including those with physical disabilities and
neurodiverse abilities—workspace designers can ensure everyone has
access to comfortable and functional workspaces. In addition, this
approach helps foster a sense of belonging among employees by
making sure everyone feels included regardless of their abilities.
The creation of neurodiverse and accessible workspaces is a pivotal

aspect of fostering an environment that meets the needs of all
employees. This approach not only expands the pool of talent, bringing
a wealth of diverse perspectives and skills to the workplace, but it also
enhances job satisfaction and drives productivity. Ultimately, designing
for a diverse workforce leads to more valuable workplaces where
people feel valued and respected as part of the team!

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Primary Resources:
1. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Retrieved from:

https://www.ada.gov/
2. Factsheet on Persons with Disabilities. Retrieved from:

https://www.un.org/development/desa/disabilities/resources/factsheet-on-
References &
persons-with-disabilities.html
3. Neurodiversity symbol. Retrieved from:

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Pastel_Neurodiversity_Symbol.png
Citations 4. Universal Deign. Retrieved from: https://universaldesign.ie/what-is-universal-

design/
Contributors:
Shruti Sunil – Graphic designer
Shivani Hatgaonkar – Workspace Designer
All graphics and illustrations courtesy of Zyeta.
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Zyeta is an integrated workspace design and build services firm that specializes in delivering exceptional workspace
interiors that leverage the latest thinking in design, workforce optimization, and the environment.
With our unique combination of people, process, and technology, we strive to provide our clientele with unparalleled
value. Zyeta provides its turn-key services for leading organizations across a spectrum of industries.
We transform raw space into award-winning, next-generation offices, clean rooms, data centers and more. We focus
on large-scale and mid-size office design and build company projects for a diverse international clientele that
includes both global enterprises as well as early-stage companies, having successfully completed hundreds of
projects across India and beyond. The company is privately held by executive management.
Website URL: https://www.zyeta.com/
Copyright © ZYETA
Information contained in this publication has been obtained by Zyeta from sources believed to be reliable. However,
neither Zyeta nor its authors guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information published herein, and
neither Zyeta nor its authors shall be responsible for any errors, omissions, or claims for damages including
exemplary damages, arising out of use, inability to use, or regarding the accuracy or sufficiency of the information
contain in this or any Zyeta publication.
This publication is intended to be used for general information only.
All products and company names referenced herein are trademarks™ or registered trademarks® of their respective
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All Together Now

Copyright © 2023 ZYETA.

People are the backbone and driving force of any organization. As

Reimagining the workplace to better empower and accommodate

Executive imperative to understand that accessibility is a crucial aspect of

Summary supported in their unique needs and abilities.

This guide serves as a valuable resource to create workspaces that are

∞ Designing for Neurodiversity 11

Contents ∞ Universal Design and Multisensory Design 23

∞ Designing for All Abilities 29

Copyright © 2023 ZYETA.

The Rights of Persons with Disability Act 1 of 1995

Over time it has come to our realization that not all

Copyright © 2023 ZYETA.

There are many different types of disabilities, both visible and

Disability is a spectrum categorized broadly as:

Copyright © 2023 ZYETA.

Where Neuro means brain, nerve or

collective term of Neurodiversity means

spectrum disorders, dyslexia, dyspraxia

*Around 15% to 20% of the population is neurodivergent.

“I wish a word like ‘neurodiversity’ had existed

Neurological differences in personality are explained by the

Copyright © 2023 ZYETA.

Neurodiverse people offer unique perspectives and interpretations

Neurological arousal from external stimuli

Therefore, in order to enhance our cognitive, physical, and emotional

Copyright © 2023 ZYETA.

Skills the neurodiverse workforce bring Difficulties the neurodiverse

Innovation and creativity Over or under stimulation

Technical, design and creative strengths Inability to concentrate

New ways to solve problems Burnout

High levels of concentration Stress and Anxiety

Keen accuracy and ability to detect errors Absenteeism/presenteeism

Strong recall of information Low energy and motivation

Detailed factual knowledge Underperformance

Reliability and persistence Diminished cognitive functioning

Designing spaces for Hyposensitive personas

Persona Spectrum Level

Less sensitive to dopamine

Pronounced engagement with external Hypersensitive

stimuli to raise low cortical arousal level.

Copyright © 2023 ZYETA.

Designing spaces for Hyposensitive personas

Designing spaces for Hyposensitive personas

Typical activities impromptu interaction

Physical calls and meetings with team-members Acoustics

Copyright © 2023 ZYETA.

Designing spaces for Hypersensitive personas

Persona Spectrum Level

Higher dopamine sensitivity

Over-stimulated by the environment

Avoid external stimuli to minimize their Hyposensitive

already high cortical arousal levels.

Designing spaces for Hypersensitive personas

Copyright © 2023 ZYETA.

Designing spaces for Hypersensitive personas

Intimate Space - (0’ – 1.5’)

Personal Space - (1.5’ – 4’)

Social Space - (4’ - 12’)