3 Tips for Building a Sensory Gym for Neurodivergent Kids, From the Experts

Working from home has become increasingly common, but for neurodivergent individuals, the typical home office environment can present significant challenges, impacting focus, productivity, and causing anxiety. Neurodivergence is a broad term encompassing conditions such as ADHD, autism, OCD, PTSD, and dyslexia. Individuals within this spectrum often experience heightened sensitivity to environmental factors, making thoughtful office design crucial for their well-being and efficiency. Psychotherapist Ban Hass emphasizes the necessity of a dedicated space with specific adaptations, cautioning that a one-size-fits-all approach is ineffective due to the diverse needs and preferences within the neurodivergent community. Optimizing the desk area involves addressing restlessness and potential disorganization. Hass suggests incorporating varied desk options, such as standing desks or walking pads, to support individuals who struggle with prolonged stillness. For those prone to disorganization, which can be a characteristic of conditions like ADHD, streamlining desktop items and implementing effective storage solutions are vital. This includes assigning specific places for stationery and utilizing desk trays and drawer organizers to minimize clutter, thereby reducing time spent searching for misplaced items. Seating arrangements also play a significant role in creating a supportive home office. While a comfortable, inviting chair is essential, not all neurodivergent individuals prefer to remain seated at a desk throughout the day. Providing alternative seating, such as a cozy armchair or a bean bag chair with structured back support, can offer a change of scenery and promote comfort. Ergonomics expert Romilly Newbound highlights the importance of movement, noting that certain ergonomic chairs, like the Aeris Swopper, encourage gentle motion, which can boost productivity and aid concentration by providing low-level physiological stimulation. Lighting, both artificial and natural, is a critical element in preventing overstimulation. Harsh overhead lights can be particularly distressing for neurodivergent individuals. Adjustable lighting, including dimmable lamps with various settings, is recommended to create a more soothing environment. While natural light can be beneficial for focus, windows can also be a source of distraction for some. Therefore, installing adjustable blinds allows for precise control over sunlight, mitigating glare and shadows on computer screens. Colour and pattern choices should also be carefully considered. Highly stimulating colours and busy patterns can lead to sensory overload in neurodivergent individuals. A muted, tranquil, and minimalist design aesthetic is generally preferred, as it creates a calmer environment conducive to sustained focus. While personal preferences vary, a simpler decor approach tends to be more universally beneficial. Additionally, practical tips for a neurodivergent-friendly office include using a charging tower to keep devices organized, having a mini-fridge for snacks and meals, keeping large water bottles visible as a hydration reminder, placing a 'do not disturb' sign on the door, utilizing fidget toys during calls, and employing a digital clock or timer to manage time and tasks effectively. Noise-cancelling headphones or a white noise machine can also help minimize external distractions, tailoring the auditory environment to individual needs. #HomeOfficeDesign #Neurodiversity #WorkFromHome #ErgonomicDesign #SensoryFriendly #InteriorDesign #ProductivityTips #MentalWellbeing

The increasing desire among parents for kid-free spaces within their homes is being recognized as a healthy and restorative trend. While parents often dedicate considerable effort to creating child-friendly environments, there is a growing need for adults to have intentional living spaces where they can unwind and reconnect. Psychotherapist Ciara Bogdanovic emphasizes that these adult-only zones support the emotional and relational well-being of parents, allowing them to recharge and return to family life more emotionally available. Such spaces help reduce stress, improve mental health, and foster creativity by providing a respite from the constant demands of childcare. Designers are actively recommending the integration of these adult sanctuaries into home design. Cathryn Erickson of Cathryn Lindsey Design highlights that these areas offer a quiet retreat from the typical household chaos. Beyond mere relaxation, these spaces are crucial for maintaining parental identity outside of caretaking roles. Nicole Roe of R. Nickson Interiors observes that clients often seek kid-free zones for a sense of calm and control. Danielle Chiprut of Danielle Rose Design Co. identifies two primary types of adult-only rooms: tranquil spaces for reading and contemplation, and social hubs like bars or game rooms for adult entertaining. Both serve to foster self-reconnection or couple-reconnection. Amy Lee McArdle of Amy Young Designs likens successful grown-up spaces to luxurious hotel lounges, emphasizing comfort and indulgence, whether through a moody library or an outdoor lounge area. However, not all designers advocate for strict "kid-free zones." Lorri Hicks Cazenave of Hicks Cazenave Design prefers a more fluid approach, creating "grown-up moments" that shift the atmosphere through design elements rather than outright exclusion. She believes that a home should feel lived-in and layered, allowing children to move freely. Instead of physical barriers, Cazenave uses subtle cues like rich textures, gentle lighting, and mature color palettes to change the energy of a space, noting that children often respond more to ambiance than to explicit rules. Selecting the right location for such a space is crucial, aiming for an area that offers some separation from daily family traffic, rather than simply repurposing the bedroom. Designers suggest reviving formal sitting rooms, which are often underutilized in contemporary open-plan homes. Erickson advocates for the return of formal rooms, redefining them as intentional spaces for adult conversation and relaxation. Other suitable locations include libraries, dens, sunrooms, or even dining rooms. Roe suggests spaces that can be closed off, as the act of closing a door itself signals privacy and a distinct energy. For homes with outdoor access, McArdle notes a trend towards elevated alfresco sanctuaries that provide a mental break from indoor activities. In smaller homes, Cazenave's "grown-up moments" can be created through specific design details, such as a window-side chair with a bar cart or a reading nook. Designing an effective adult space involves creating a distinct sensory experience. Designers recommend soft, layered lighting, including sconces, lamps, and dimmers, and minimizing distractions like televisions to encourage deeper conversation and relaxation. Material choices are also important; materials like velvet, mohair, linen, and unlacquered brass, which might not be suitable for child-heavy areas, can be incorporated to add a luxurious feel. Cherished pieces, sculptural ceramics, and delicate glassware can further enhance the grown-up aesthetic. Despite creating distinct adult zones, designers caution against making them feel disconnected from the rest of the home. Maintaining design cohesion through consistent wood tones, upholstery styles, or color undertones helps ensure the entire home feels harmonious, even as certain areas serve different purposes. Many parents initially experience guilt when considering dedicated adult spaces. Roe acknowledges this common sentiment, stressing that it is not selfish but a necessary step for parental well-being. Bogdanovic explains that this guilt often stems from societal expectations of parental self-sacrifice. She reframes the concept by drawing a parallel to children's playrooms, which are accepted as "kid-only" zones. Clear and positive communication about different zones—kid zones, parent zones, and shared spaces—can help normalize the idea and teach children about mutual privacy. The article concludes that providing adults with a dedicated space to recharge ultimately benefits the entire household, leading to a more harmonious family environment. #KidFreeZone #HomeDesign #ParentalWellbeing #InteriorDesigners #AdultSpaces #HomeRenovation #FamilyLife #DesignTips #MentalHealth

This article explores the process of redecorating a 4-year-old's bedroom, focusing on how to involve the child in the design decisions while ensuring a result that satisfies both parents and child. The case study involves Quinn Berry, daughter of Domino style director Kate Berry and illustrator Ian Berry, who has a strong aesthetic vision for her room. Quinn's primary request was a bunk bed with a rainbow ladder and "hot pink walls with pretend flowers." Her parents, leveraging their design expertise and the assistance of Domino style editor Elaina Sullivan, navigated these requests to create a vibrant and functional space. The renovation began by removing outdated baby room elements, such as a crib and neutral textiles, and retaining more eclectic pieces like fringed pendant lamps and a graphic Moroccan rug. Quinn's initial vision for hot pink walls was adapted; the walls were painted a pale rose and accented with color-blocked sections in brighter pink and orange. The "pretend flowers" materialized through a hyper-stylized Josef Frank fabric, which was used to transform the bottom bunk into a creative hideaway. This collaborative approach allowed Quinn's ideas to be incorporated while being refined into a more sophisticated design. The room was also designed to serve as a "working laboratory" for Quinn's creative development, featuring a standing easel, a wall-mounted crafts area, and a dress-up station. This emphasis on functionality supports her current interests, which include a fascination with Yayoi Kusama. The article highlights that encouraging creativity does not mean completely ceding control to the child but rather finding a balance. It provides practical advice on achieving this balance through three key strategies. First, parents should identify the child's top two or three non-negotiable design elements and build around those. For Quinn, the bunk bed was paramount, leading to a compromise on a white model that could be customized with desired details like the botanical fabric. Second, the article suggests adapting the child's vision rather than outright rejecting "questionable ideas." This involves toning down, recasting, or adjusting the scale of their concepts to align with adult preferences. For instance, instead of an entire hot pink room, the color was integrated through color-blocked panels and accent pillows. Third, the design should reflect the child's passions and habits. By observing how the child uses their space, parents can incorporate elements that nurture their evolving interests, such as a dedicated spot for a favorite wig, accessible musical instruments, or a drawing table. These strategies aim to create a space that is both personally engaging for the child and aesthetically pleasing for the adults, fostering a sense of ownership and creativity in the child. #KidsRooms #BedroomDesign #InteriorDesign #ParentingTips #CreativeSpaces #HomeDecor #ChildhoodDevelopment

This article offers practical advice and creative inspiration for designing children's playrooms, emphasizing functionality, imagination, and adaptability as children grow. It outlines essential considerations for creating a space that is both enjoyable for kids and manageable for parents, applicable whether the playroom is a dedicated area or integrated into other rooms like a child's bedroom or family living room. The initial recommendation focuses on incorporating soft finishes such as cushions, rugs, and upholstered furniture. These elements contribute to a cozy atmosphere, aid in sound absorption, and enhance comfort. The use of layers with soft floor cushions, warm textiles, and tactile fabrics like brushed cottons or velvets is suggested to create an inviting environment. Secondly, the article stresses the importance of multifunctional pieces, particularly for storage. It advises investing in solutions like baskets, cubbies, and furniture with hidden compartments to keep toys and craft supplies organized and prevent clutter. Efficient storage is presented as a cornerstone of an organized playroom. Creating distinct zones within the playroom is another key strategy. This involves designating specific areas for different activities, such as energetic play with blocks and soft mats, and a quiet corner for reading or crafts. This zoning helps guide children's activities and maximizes the utility of the space. Careful selection of flooring is highlighted as a long-term decision. The article recommends choosing durable, easy-to-clean options like laminate or vinyl floors in neutral tones. This approach ensures the flooring can withstand the rigors of childhood play while remaining suitable as the child matures, avoiding the need for frequent replacement. The article also covers color schemes, suggesting that while vibrant colors are common for children's spaces, natural and earthy tones can provide a calming backdrop. These neutral palettes can be complemented with fun accessories and posters, allowing the toys themselves to provide sensory stimulation without overwhelming the space with garish colors. Bringing elements of a playground indoors is proposed to foster adventure. This could include indoor swings, swing chairs that double as reading nooks, or small climbing structures, turning the playroom into an exciting zone for physical activity and imaginative scenarios. To maintain coziness, lighting is crucial. Warm lighting, such as fairy lights or soft-glow lamps, is recommended to create a soothing ambiance. Combining this with various textures further enhances the welcoming feel of the room. Regular toy rotation and decluttering are essential for keeping children engaged and the space tidy. Experts suggest swapping toys in and out to prevent boredom and maintaining a clean-up routine to encourage children to organize their belongings. Further creative ideas include setting up a den or hideaway with a fabric teepee, displaying colorful artwork to inspire creativity, and using light, balanced color schemes to enlarge the feel of smaller playrooms. Incorporating a homework hub with a desk and organized stationery, utilizing natural textures in furniture and decor, and adding a comfortable 'chill-out' chair or daybed for relaxation are also recommended. Additional tips encompass creating a dressing-up corner with hanging rails for costumes, a blackboard or whiteboard wall for creative expression, and abundant low-level toy storage, such as IKEA's TROFAST or KALLAX units. Utilizing wallpaper offcuts for decorative accents and furnishing the room with pint-sized furniture suitable for children's activities are also suggested. For sleepovers, daybeds or sofa beds offer multifunctional solutions, and unique beds like treehouse-style structures can add an adventurous touch. Finally, a cozy reading nook with accessible books and comfortable seating promotes literacy and quiet time, while displaying children's artwork fosters a sense of pride and ownership. #PlayroomDesign #KidsRoomIdeas #ChildrensDecor #ToyStorage #HomeOrganization #InteriorStyling #CreativePlaySpace #FamilyLiving #HomeDesign

Syeda and Michael Lewis, accustomed to confined New York City apartments, faced a design challenge with the attic of their new 1800 Colonial Revival house in Park Hill, New York. The attic, despite its cavernous size, presented difficulties due to its low, angled eaves that caused people to bump their heads. However, the couple recognized the space's potential for a magical, fairy-tale-like quality, attributed to its unique angles and hidden closets, reminiscent of Narnia. The couple's 3-year-old son, Zayn, became the focus for the attic's transformation into his bedroom. Designer Blair Moore of Moore House Design was brought in, and after exploring over 20 furniture plans, she conceived a brilliant solution: two canopy beds integrated into the roof lines. Moore's design aimed to not only embrace the quirky architecture but also incorporate Zayn’s passion for trains, effectively turning an awkward layout into a fantastical wonderland. A key feature of the room is an elaborate electric train track network. Small arches carved into the base of the beds allow the tracks to run underneath the four-poster structures. The network extends along the length of a secret 10-foot cubby located behind the beds. This design element was intended to create hidden play spots and nooks where Zayn and his friends could play and watch the trains circulate. Moore also ingeniously transformed dead space resulting from the angled ceilings. Because the ceilings sloped almost to the floor, drywall was used to create headboards for the beds. Instead of completely blocking the area behind these headboards, Moore decided to convert it into a secret play space. This hidden area is accessible through a built-in desk and features its own lighting, a window, and the continuation of the train track, making it an incredibly engaging environment. The design further extends to the room's walls, which showcase a series of color-blocked chalkboard paint shapes mixed with Farrow & Ball hues. Moore spontaneously created silhouettes framing the window to add depth, inspired by the natural shadow lines cast within the dormers. These natural light rays were mimicked and enhanced with bright color pops, adding a unique visual element to the room. To make the room suitable for slumber parties, Moore complemented the yellow bed frames with ribbed tambour covering the back walls. DIY fire-truck red headboards were installed using inexpensive brass hardware, providing a cushioned back for potential pillow fights. Canary curtains completed the canopies and the room's color palette, establishing it as an inviting space where neighborhood kids would want to gather. The overall design successfully combined functional solutions for challenging architecture with playful, imaginative elements tailored to a child's interests. #KidsRoomDesign #AtticRenovation #CustomFurniture #PlayroomIdeas #CreativeInteriors #SpaceUtilization #ChildrensBedrooms #InteriorDesign #TrainTracks

The article focuses on creating engaging and functional playrooms for children, guided by Karri Bowen-Poole, founder of Smart Playrooms in Westchester. Bowen-Poole emphasizes that the key to a perfect playroom lies in functional storage, engaging activity stations, and a modern, crisp color palette. Her company specializes in designing educational play spaces that cater to both children and parents. For a project designed for a 1- and 3-year-old, Smart Playrooms began with a new construction, providing a blank canvas. Bowen-Poole highlights that the size of the space is less critical than its layout, storage solutions, and the thoughtful selection of activity zones. She advises that for smaller areas, it is more effective to create two well-executed zones rather than attempting to squeeze in too many, which can lead to a cluttered and less engaging environment. This particular project, spanning approximately 1,000 square feet, allowed for the incorporation of several activity zones, including an art studio, a basketball/sport zone, a climbing and gymnastic area, a TV and storage section, a playhouse for pretend play, and a dedicated reading nook with ample book storage. Color selection plays a significant role in the playroom's design, influencing children's behavior and mood. The inspiration for the color palette came from artist peel-and-stick murals available through projectplayroom.com, which were then used to guide the selection of storage, carpet, bins, and furnishings. One such mural was integrated into the physical play zone, transforming it into a climbing wall that offered both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. Bowen-Poole prefers gender-neutral colors that deviate from traditional primary colors, as these choices can impact how children interact with the space. She explains that shades of blue and teal promote quiet play, focus, and creativity, while whites evoke a sense of calm and openness. Pinks are chosen to foster feelings of love and kindness, and greens are used to encourage a renewed, tranquil, and refreshed state. In addition to active play zones, the design incorporates quiet areas, such as a custom circular reading nook. This 'Chill Zone' is intended to encourage reading, thinking, and relaxation, providing a cozy space for children to unwind, daydream, and engage in storytelling. Bowen-Poole stresses the importance of designing play spaces with longevity in mind, ensuring they remain relevant and beneficial as children grow. Her philosophy centers on creating environments that help children develop creativity and problem-solving skills through thoughtfully designed activities. She believes that a dedicated playroom empowers children, making them feel confident and valued, and encourages more frequent play and social interaction with friends. The article concludes by emphasizing the overall significance of providing children with a personalized play space, regardless of its size. Karri Bowen-Poole of Smart Playrooms is identified as the designer for the featured project, with Hardware and Mural sourced from Project Playroom. #PlayroomDesign #KidsPlaySpace #HomeDecor #ChildrensInteriors #EducationalPlayrooms #WestchesterHome #SmartPlayrooms #ChildDevelopment #InteriorDesign

Creating a calm nursery for both the baby and the caregiver is essential for fostering a peaceful environment. Architect Merilee Meacock, a partner at KSS Architects, emphasizes prioritizing the caregiver's comfort, as a relaxed parent contributes to a calm baby. The nursery should function as a supportive space for parents, with design choices that enhance well-being. Meacock suggests several key elements for a calm nursery. A room with an outside view helps caregivers feel connected to the world, while natural light aids in synchronizing the baby's circadian rhythms. Blackout curtains or wood blinds can be used to control light during naptime. Choosing a smaller room size is recommended, as coziness can be nurturing for both parent and child. For the interior, soft textures, comfortable and ergonomic furniture, and natural materials like wood and wool are preferred. A 2007 study in the Journal of Wood Science indicated that wood promotes restorative and tranquil feelings, and rooms featuring natural wood have been shown to lower pulse rates. Wood's warmth to the touch also adds to its soothing qualities. Ergonomic furniture is crucial for parents who will spend significant time in the nursery in similar positions. Meacock highlights the importance of a changing table configured at the right height and a nursing chair that provides ample back support to ensure lasting comfort. Drawing from her experience designing environments for children with special needs, Meacock notes that cozy nooks are more calming than large, open spaces, a consideration that can guide room selection. Simplicity and an uncluttered environment are also paramount. Meacock recounts her own nursery, a small 8x8 room with an angled eave, which naturally limited the amount of furniture and toys it could hold. This minimalist approach created a "safe cocoon with few stimuli." She advises against excessive word decals or stacks of objects, promoting a spare and uncluttered feel. The few objects included should have a sensory element, such as books with crunchy plastic, a mock aquarium, or high-contrast toys, as babies typically see in black and white with a dash of red until about six months old. Simple patterns are preferred over complex ones. For further guidance on integrating natural materials and sensory experiences, Meacock recommends Terrapin Bright Green’s "14 Patterns of Biophilic Design," a report detailing design choices that support human health and well-being. Beyond decor and design, routine plays a significant role in creating a calm environment. Nadia Galloway, creator of Pillow Sheets, stresses the importance of a consistent bedtime schedule. Babies and children thrive on routine, which provides a sense of security and comfort. This includes repeating the same lullaby and following bath time with a beloved book each night. Ultimately, the philosophy is that a calm parent leads to a calm baby, making the caregiver's peace of mind a central component of nursery design. #CalmNursery #BabyCare #NurseryDesign #ParentingTips #BiophilicDesign #ChildDevelopment #NaturalMaterials #ErgonomicFurniture #RoutineBuilding

Investing in a high-quality glider for a nursery can significantly enhance comfort and convenience for parents, especially during late-night feedings and bonding moments with their baby. A glider is a specific type of chair that moves back and forth on a fixed track, often incorporating swivel and rocking functions, and sometimes reclining capabilities. This article emphasizes that these features are preferred over traditional chairs due to their effectiveness in soothing infants and maintaining parental comfort. Dr. Jessica Hochman, a board-certified pediatrician, highlights the necessity of a comfortable seating option, noting that newborns typically feed 8 to 12 times daily for 15 to 20 minutes each session. She stresses the importance of a supportive backrest with proper lumbar support, particularly for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding parents. Additionally, Dr. Hochman advises selecting gliders with removable and easy-to-clean fabrics to manage inevitable spills and messes. Naomi Coe, an interior designer and founder of Little Crown Interiors, advocates for upholstered gliders over wood-framed ones due to their superior comfort, style, and safety. She also points out the practical consideration of ensuring adequate space for the glider to move and swivel without hitting walls. Modern gliders often include advanced features such as power reclining mechanisms and USB charging ports, which add to their functionality and convenience. While gliders are not strictly essential, both experts agree that they are highly beneficial. Coe states that any comfortable seating option is acceptable, but a glider in the nursery keeps everything — from the crib to feeding supplies — contained and easily accessible. Dr. Hochman adds that the gentle rocking motion helps babies relax and fall asleep, making gliders a valuable investment for creating a nurturing environment. The article includes endorsements from SheKnows senior commerce director, Gina Vaynshteyn, who emphasizes the safety aspect of having a designated comfortable chair for feeding, reducing the risk of falling asleep in bed with the baby. The article then presents a curated list of 11 top-rated gliders, categorized by specific features and benefits, to assist parents in their decision-making process. Each glider listing includes detailed specifications such as dimensions, available colors, material, swivel and recline capabilities, weight and weight capacity, and relevant certifications. Pros and cons are also provided for each model, covering aspects like ease of cleaning, eco-friendliness, price, and additional features like storage, USB ports, and back support. The featured gliders range from the affordable Kurhwyss Swivel Glider Chair to the luxurious Dream Deluxe Power Swivel Recliner with Heat and Massage, offering options for various budgets and preferences. Notable models include the Abingdon Upholstered Swivel Reclining Glider for its value and high ratings, the Delta Children Mercer Electronic Power Recliner for its electronic recline and USB port, and the Babyletto Poe Channeled Swivel Glider for its stain-resistant, eco-friendly fabric. Other highlighted options address specific needs such as washable covers, integrated storage, superior back support, extensive upholstery choices, and suitability for small spaces. #NurseryDesign #BabyProducts #GliderChair #ParentingEssentials #NurseryFurniture #ChildCare #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ComfortSolutions

Google, in collaboration with Johns Hopkins University’s Arts + Mind Lab, unveiled an installation titled _A Space for Being_ at Salone del Mobile in Milan. This multi-room experience is designed to demonstrate how aesthetically pleasing environments can positively impact human physiology, moving beyond subjective perceptions to provide data-backed evidence. The installation is spearheaded by Ivy Ross, Google’s vice president and head of design for all hardware products, and features spaces designed by architect Suchi Reddy, furnished with pieces from Muuto. _A Space for Being_ builds on Google’s previous Milan exhibition, ‘Softwear,’ continuing the exploration of design's impact on daily life. Ross, who also advises the Arts + Mind Lab as a Luminary Scholar, highlights that neuroscience can now prove what designers have long intuitively understood: that aesthetics, encompassing sensory systems like space, color, texture, music, and shape, influence brain activity, physiology, and overall well-being. The installation aims to be a thought leader in design, provoking discussions on the intersection of design and science. The installation consists of three distinct room environments: ‘Essential,’ ‘Vital,’ and ‘Transformative.’ Each room features subtle variations in lighting, scent, music, artwork, materials, and proportion, creating unique sensory experiences. Before entering, visitors are equipped with a specially designed band from Google Hardware and its Advanced Technology and Projects division. This wearable device measures physiological responses such as heart activity, breathing rate, skin conductance, temperature, and body motion. At the end of the experience, the collected data is downloaded and analyzed to provide visitors with insights into their personal reactions to the different environments. Suchi Reddy, the architect responsible for the interior and architectural design, describes her process as integrating art with science. She made conscious choices for every element and the sequence of the experience to evoke specific moods, balancing scientific research with aesthetic intuition. For instance, the ‘Essential’ room offers an intimate, earthy feel with curved walls, soft lighting, and touch-inviting surfaces, including a commissioned wool tapestry by Claudy Jongstra. The ‘Vital’ room is designed to be more playful with angled walls, concrete floors, bright colors, light patterns, and reflective surfaces. The ‘Transformative’ room features a natural, refined feel with a neutral palette, textured walls, indirect lighting, plants, and a minimal sculpture by Sabine Marcelis. The interiors, furnished exclusively by Muuto, maintain a common aesthetic, ensuring that visitors’ physiological reactions are primarily influenced by sensory stimuli rather than personal taste. Christian Grosen, Muuto’s design director, emphasizes the project's ability to create a new language around aesthetics, helping individuals understand and articulate their preferences beyond mere words. Susan Magsamen, executive director of the Arts + Mind Lab, notes the growing interest among neuroscientists in how the brain responds to aesthetic experiences, focusing on practical applications for health, well-being, and learning, including personalized neuroaesthetics. The installation allows the public to engage with this cutting-edge research, offering feedback on their responses to different environments. To ensure privacy, all collected data is erased in front of participants after assessment. Ross emphasizes that the initiative underscores the profound impact of design on well-being, encouraging people to make informed choices about their environments to enhance their physiology and foster a more peaceful state. #GoogleDesign #Neuroaesthetics #SaloneDelMobile #MilanDesignWeek #InteriorDesign #SensoryExperience #JohnsHopkinsUniversity #SuchiReddy #Wellbeing #DesignInnovation

The article explores the growing trend of dedicated playrooms in homes and assesses their value from the perspectives of early childhood education experts and real estate agents. Playrooms are becoming increasingly elaborate, featuring elements such as climbing walls, rope swings, and foam pits, prompting homeowners to consider if such an addition is beneficial. Early childhood specialists, Anne Gillyard and Jodi Arellano of grOH! Playrooms, along with educational designer Karri Bown-Poole of Smart Playrooms, strongly advocate for dedicated play spaces. They emphasize that these areas provide a safe environment for children to explore, process emotions, and develop crucial skills such as independence, focus, and creativity. An organized playroom, in particular, encourages imaginative and independent play, which positively impacts brain development and learning. Children learn problem-solving, risk-taking, negotiation, language skills, and patience through play. For parents, a playroom offers a designated space for toys, helping to keep other areas of the home clutter-free. Conversely, real estate agent Anthony Djon expresses a more cautious view regarding the value of playrooms as a selling point. While Gillyard and Arellano believe playrooms can make a home memorable to potential buyers, Djon suggests they might deter buyers without children or those with older children, especially if the playroom is poorly located within the home. He advises against converting garages into playrooms due to the general utility of garage space in various weather conditions. The ideal location for a playroom, according to Djon, is typically a basement or an extra bedroom in a multi-story home. The experts also highlight common mistakes to avoid when creating a playroom. A significant issue is over-cluttering the space with too many toys, which can lead to disorganization and hinder creativity. They recommend investing in open, opaque storage bins, with each bin designated for a specific type of toy, to maintain order. Additionally, Djon warns against making major structural changes, such as installing climbing walls, if selling the home in the near future. Such customizations can limit the buyer pool or reduce the home's resale value, potentially giving buyers more leverage in negotiations. For those looking to create a playroom without significant investment or commitment, the article suggests several practical design ideas. These include incorporating peel-and-stick decor like wall decals and magnetic letter boards, which can be easily changed as children's tastes evolve. Play tents are also presented as a flexible solution for establishing a safe play area in rooms not primarily dedicated to play. The article also touches upon aesthetically pleasing children's furniture, such as play couches and wooden furniture, as options for parents who prioritize design. The overall consensus is that while playrooms offer significant developmental benefits for children and can enhance family life, their impact on home value is nuanced and depends on location, design, and potential buyer demographics. #Playrooms #HomeDesign #EarlyChildhoodEducation #RealEstateValue #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #ChildDevelopment #FamilyLiving #Renovation