April is Autism Awareness Month, at Gradon Architecture we are taking this time to reflect on people with neurodivergence.

As architects, we design spaces that shape how people experience the world every day. With 1 in 5 people in the UK are neurodivergent, inclusive design is essential.

At GRADONARCHITECTURE, we are committed to designing environments that support neurodiversity. Our work is informed by research, lived experience, and industry guidance, helping us better understand the challenges many autistic individuals face in schools and workplaces.

Our architectural assistant Olivia recently explored this in her master’s thesis, “Breaking Barriers: Designing Wayfinding Principles to Support Students with Autism.” Through visits to nine schools and conversations with educators and individuals with lived experience, she developed practical design principles focused on layout, navigation, signage, colour, acoustics, and lighting – all aimed at reducing barriers and supporting student independence.

Alongside this, Kayleigh has been researching neurodivergence in the workplace. Her findings highlight how open-plan offices and hotdesking can negatively impact neurodivergent individuals, particularly where there is limited control over the environment. The key takeaway? Flexibility must be paired with personal control to truly support wellbeing and productivity.

These insights reinforce a simple but powerful idea: there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Designing for neurodiversity means creating adaptable, inclusive environments that respond to a wide range of sensory needs.

We are proud to have contributed to several SEN-focused projects, including:
• Hexham Priory School
• Ashdale Primary School
• Percy Hedley Upper School Redevelopment
• NEAS Centre

This Autism Awareness Month, we reaffirm our commitment to designing spaces where everyone can feel comfortable, supported, and able to thrive.