Education Commons^™

Adults and children with ASD have reported difficulties wayfinding in the school environment. Meanwhile, the numbers of children diagnosed with ASD is rising (CDC, 2014). We know that children with ASD can be especially sensitive to their environment (APA, 2013). Despite this knowledge, there is a lack of research into environmental design for children with ASD (Khare, 2010; Martin, 2014; Shabha & Gaines, 2011). Existing research is often anecdotal and lacking an evidence basis (Henry, 2011).

This design case describes the design process used for the development of new special school facilities for children with severe disabilities in Wales, United Kingdom. The lived experience is described from the interior design practitioner perspective. The background to the design of the school is outlined, and the design process and design changes that were made during the build process are detailed. The main features discussed are the toilet areas, hoist lifting system, the way finding and signage system, the hydrotherapy pool, and the wheelchair storage areas. Working relationships with key stakeholders involved in the design process are documented, including …