The commercial workplace is constantly evolving. Before Covid, we didn't fully understand the needs of the people in our spaces. In 2024, workspace neurodiversity and inclusion are essential components of a thriving and innovative environment.
At Hunters, we know how to create spaces that meet different needs, making sure everyone feels important, included, and inspired.
We are completely independent which allows us to create custom furniture packages. These packages can be made to support inclusivity and neurodiversity and we achieve this by working with a variety of suppliers and having a deep understanding of the various products available and the ways in which people work.
Defining Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity refers to the variety of ways the human brain can function and process information. This concept includes conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurological differences. Recognising and valuing these differences is crucial for fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace.
According to this 2022 Deloitte Article, unemployment amongst neurodiverse populations is alarmingly high and we know from experience that this is likely to be in part due to the typical office environment not being suitable for neurodiverse people to succeed.
Not everyone thrives in the same work environment and not everyone has the same preferences for their work environment. It is important for the workplace to offer a variety of options for people to choose from. This will help them be more productive and have a more enjoyable work experience.
The Importance of Inclusive Design
Inclusive design goes beyond aesthetics. It involves creating spaces that are accessible, comfortable, and conducive to the well-being and productivity of all employees, regardless of their neurological makeup. This helps neurodivergent individuals and improves the workplace experience. This leads to higher occupancy levels, productivity, and staff collaboration and retention.
Ergonomic Furniture
At Hunters, we understand that comfort is key to productivity. This doesn’t always just relate to task chairs (office chairs). This applies to all work / agile settings in the office space. Regardless of where you chose to work that day it needs to support the function you need to carry out.
The typical products that need to offer the highest level of ergonomics would be adjustable task seating, height-adjustable (sit stand) desks, and supportive accessories, i.e. Monitor arms, task lighting etc. You can tailor these pieces to meet individual needs, reducing physical strain and enhancing focus.
Sensory-Friendly Environments
Neurodivergent individuals often experience heightened sensory sensitivities. Hunters can tailor solutions to help create sensory-friendly environments with acoustic panels, noise-cancelling pods, and soft lighting solutions to reduce sensory overload, creating a calming atmosphere.
Read more about Office Acoustics in our blog
Flexible Workspaces
Flexibility is essential in all elements of furniture, not just to be mobile, but also built for reconfiguration so that items can be repurposed in a sustainable way. Modular furniture allows for easy reconfiguration of spaces to suit different activities and preferences. Employees can change the workspace to suit their preferences. Some may want a quiet corner for focused work, while others may prefer an open area for collaborative projects.
Promoting Inclusion Through Design
Collaborative Spaces
Creating spaces that encourage collaboration and communication is vital for an inclusive workplace. With the right selection of products we can foster a sense of community which encourages the exchange of ideas, ensuring that everyone's voice is heard regardless of their generation or background.
Read more on generational differences in the workplace in our blog
Training and Awareness
Designing inclusive workspaces also involves educating your people about neurodiversity. We recommend incorporating training sessions to raise awareness, promoting a culture of inclusion and respect, but most importantly the understanding of what your colleagues may be going through.
Case Study: Transforming Workspaces with Hunters Furniture
Looking back at our project with Arup for their major refit and change to workplace the goal was to create a highly flexible workplace that supported neurodiversity and fostered inclusion & collaboration.
The Challenge
The company had a diverse workforce with varied needs. Some employees required quiet spaces due to sensory sensitivities, while others thrived in collaborative environments. The conventional office layout would not work for this organisation.
The Solution
Working closely with the Arup Design team, Hunters implemented the following changes:
- Sensory-Friendly Zones: Created quiet zones with acoustic pods, providing a retreat for those needing a break from noise.
- Flexible Workspaces: Introduced modular furniture, enabling easy reconfiguration of spaces to suit different activities.
- Collaborative Areas: Set up collaborative tables to encourage teamwork and idea-sharing.
The Result
The redesigned office led to increased employee satisfaction and productivity. By catering to diverse needs, the company fostered a more inclusive and supportive environment.
Creating Inclusive Workspaces with Hunters
At Hunters, we are committed to designing workplaces that celebrate and support neurodiversity. Through our partnerships with leading manufacturers, we offer innovative solutions that cater to the unique needs of all employees. By prioritising inclusivity and flexibility, we help organisations create environments where everyone can thrive.