Crafted for Healing 2025 brought together leaders across healthcare and design to explore how we can better support neurodiversity through the built environment. Held over three immersive days, the event was hosted by Carolina, Mannington Commercial, Clarus, and Scanalytics. Through keynote speakers, a hands-on design charrette, and a collaborative panel, attendees explored practical strategies for creating healthcare spaces that promote dignity, empathy, and healing for every mind. Leading the conversation were two distinguished experts: Dr. Kati Peditto, an environmental design researcher specializing in neuroinclusion, and Dr. Kelly Olson, a neuroscientist and integrative medicine specialist. Through evidence-based perspectives and engaging stories, they challenged attendees to consider how design decisions can powerfully shape the way people feel, function, and heal—especially those with different cognitive and sensory needs.
What is neurodiversity and why does it matter in healthcare design?
Neurodiversity describes the natural differences in how people think, process information, and respond to their environments. While often associated with autism or ADHD, it also encompasses a broader spectrum of cognitive and sensory experiences. Neurodiversity can refer to sensitivities to light, sound, or texture, as well as challenges with focus, memory, or emotional regulation.
In healthcare settings, where stress and sensory input are already elevated, these differences can significantly affect how someone navigates, experiences, and heals in a space. Designing for neurodiversity means moving beyond one-size-fits-all approaches. It calls for environments that are adaptable, intuitive, and empathetic. It is a space that supports the full range of human experience. For neurodivergent individuals, elements like lighting, acoustics, layout, and wayfinding can be the difference between disorientation and comfort. From patients to caregivers to visitors, everyone benefits when design fosters calm and clarity. Crafted for Healing 2025 challenged everyone to explore a critical question: What does it mean to truly design for every mind?
1. Co-design leads to more thoughtful, inclusive spaces.
Inclusive design isn't just about good intentions. It's about intentional collaboration. As Dr. Kati Peditto emphasized, designing for neurodivergence requires more than relying on general research or assumptions. It means actively involving the communities we are designing for and understanding their lived experiences. Participatory design helps ensure the solutions are grounded, relevant, and tailored to real human needs.
2. Sensory design can reduce stress and support healing.
The environments we inhabit can either overwhelm or restore us, especially for those who experience the world through heightened sensory processing. Dr. Kelly Olson reminded us that overstimulation is more than discomfort; it can deplete the body’s stress-regulation systems. Thoughtful choices in lighting, noise levels, and material textures can soothe the nervous system and improve overall well-being. Design has the power to help people feel safe, calm, and capable.
3. Privacy isn’t about being alone, it’s about control.
The neurodivergent experience of privacy is nuanced. It’s not about isolation, but about achieving the right level of social interaction on one’s own terms. As Dr. Peditto explained, people need spaces that reflect a spectrum of needs: areas for solitude, connection, stimulation, or retreat. True neuroinclusion means designing flexible environments that empower people with choice and control over their interactions.
4. Nature isn’t just beautiful, it’s essential.
Biophilic design has measurable benefits. From reducing aggression to accelerating recovery, access to natural light, greenery, and views of nature supports cognitive and emotional well-being. Both Dr. Peditto and Dr. Olson highlighted the role of nature as a tool for healing, especially for neurodivergent individuals who may be more attuned to their sensory environments. Nature soothes the brain and anchors us in the present.
5. Clear, intuitive spaces reduce mental fatigue.
Environmental clarity isn't just convenient, it's vital. When spaces are legible, predictable, and easy to navigate, it reduces the cognitive load on all users. Dr. Kelly Olson explains that thoughtful design creates seamless experiences, letting users focus without noticing every detail. This is especially important for neurodivergent individuals who may find complex environments overwhelming. Dr. Peditto urged designers to consider not only what people feel, but what they understand. From signage to layout, intuitive design helps people feel more confident, safe, and independent.
Designing for every mind
Crafted for Healing 2025 made one thing clear: neuro-inclusive design is no longer optional but essential. As healthcare and design professionals, we have the opportunity and responsibility to build spaces that don’t just accommodate, but actively uplift those with diverse cognitive needs. From co-creation to biophilia, from layout to lighting, the choices we make in the built environment send a powerful message about who is welcome and who is supported. Designing for every mind isn’t just a philosophy but a pathway to healing, dignity, and equity for all.