Empower The Spectrum: Building Pathways to Success
My project is a manifestation of the acknolwedgment of Burnleys equality issues regarding the autistic community and a strong desire to design sustainably with notions to both circular economy and disassembly. Only 21% of autistic indivduals are employed as a result of social challenges, lack of skill, limited job opportunities or stigma and misunderstanding.
My project aims to design an innovative upskilling centre with specialised environments tailored specifically for autistic individuals, with the purpose of facilitating their successful transition in employment. My project seeks to create a supportive space that adresses the unique sensory needs and challenges faced by autistic individuals, promoting their skills, abilities and independence
My proposal focuses on creating an inclusive environment that fosters a sense of comfort, safety and sensory regulation. It incorporates various features to accomodate sensory sensitivities, such as controlled lighting through natural and optimsied glazing strategies, sound reduction through material choice, and internal environment regulation using passive ventilation methods - such care is taken to mitigate sensory overload and promote a stimulating environment that is conducive to learning.
The layout and organisation of the upskilling centre is designed to faciliate clear wayfinding and promote ease of navigation for individuals on the autistic spectrum. The space can be navigated using multiple sensory mediums such as visual clues, colour differentiations, clear signage and specifcally a wayfinding texture that is incorporated into the design in th form of a tile to assist orientation with the along walls leading to specified destinations acting as a tactile aid
The overall architectyre design of the upskillung soace centres around an inclusive and empowering environment, with a focus on accessibility, safety and person centred design principles. The project aims to create a space where autistic individuals can thrive, build confidence, develop vital skills and ultimately transition into meaningful oppoertunity opportunities.
