Industry
May 5, 2025

Designing for a Neurodiverse Future: What to Expect at NeoCon and Design Days 2025

Designing for a Neurodiverse Future: What to Expect at NeoCon and Design Days 2025
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Introduction

As awareness around neurodiversity continues to grow, the need for inclusive spaces that support the full range of human experiences becomes increasingly urgent. This June, we’re excited to attend two major events—NeoCon and Design Days—in Chicago, where industry leaders will showcase groundbreaking solutions for a neuroinclusive future. These events consistently highlight innovations in architecture and design, and this year’s programming signals a strong focus on neuroinclusive design.

At Avanto, we believe that creating spaces that cater to neurodivergent individuals is essential, not only for inclusivity but also for boosting well-being and performance across various environments.

The Focus on Neuroinclusive Design at NeoCon 2025

NeoCon 2025 promises to be a game-changer for neuroinclusive design. With an impressive lineup of sessions, the event will explore how the design of workspaces, schools, and public areas can support sensory and cognitive diversity. Here are some of the most anticipated sessions at NeoCon that are sure to push the conversation forward:

  • IIDA Collective Design LIVE: How to Design a More Inclusive Future
  • Integrating Fractal-Based Design for Stress Reduction
  • Brain Works in the Workplace: Decoding Neurodiversity
  • Co-Creating Spaces of Inclusivity and Connectivity with ASIDx10 Collective
  • Design on a Spectrum
  • Designing Therapeutic Environments
  • Evolving Spaces: Sensory Rooms
  • Neuroinclusive Interior Design

These sessions demonstrate the growing need for innovative solutions that prioritize the well-being of neurodivergent individuals. By exploring new design methods, materials, and technologies, we can create environments that truly support cognitive and sensory diversity.

Key Voices in Neuroinclusive Design

This year also marks the release of Kay Sargent’s new book, Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces. As a leading voice in the industry, Sargent’s work continues to push the boundaries of neuroinclusive design. With her practical insights and comprehensive approach, Sargent is helping to pave the way for workplaces and spaces that truly meet the needs of neurodivergent individuals. Her upcoming national book tour will undoubtedly spark even more conversations around the importance of these designs.

With an estimated 1 in 5 people considered neurodivergent, the demand for environments that support neurodiversity in both cognitive and sensory ways has never been more pressing.

Neuroinclusive Design Beyond the Workplace

The neuroinclusive movement isn’t just confined to office spaces. In fact, neuroinclusive design is having a significant impact across various sectors, including:

  • Education: Brands like Artcobell are reimagining classroom furniture to encourage movement and engagement, promoting better outcomes for all students.
  • Public Spaces: Hightower’s Considered Solutions initiative is designing spaces like airports, schools, and lobbies with acoustics and sensory sensitivity in mind, making these environments more inclusive and welcoming for neurodivergent individuals.
  • Healthcare & Senior Living: Acknowledging the importance of mental and sensory well-being alongside physical health, the healthcare and senior living industries are embracing designs that cater to neurodivergent populations, helping improve quality of life.

The momentum is clear: neuroinclusive design is shaping a better future for diverse communities, and we’re excited to be part of it.

What We’ll Be Looking for at NeoCon and Design Days

We’re eager to be on the ground at NeoCon and Design Days in Chicago, where we’ll explore showrooms and sessions dedicated to neuroinclusive design. Expect to see updates on:

  • The latest tools and products that are revolutionizing neuroinclusive design
  • Innovative design concepts that are improving sensory and cognitive experiences
  • Insights from thought leaders and industry professionals who are shaping the future of inclusive spaces

Our team will be sharing the discoveries we make, so stay tuned for detailed reports and takeaways from these exciting events.

Join the Conversation

We want to hear from you, too. What solutions are you seeing that are moving the needle on inclusivity? Whether it’s in workplace design, education, or public spaces, we’re always looking to spotlight bold ideas and fresh perspectives.

Drop us a line at info@goavanto.com—let's continue the conversation about designing a more inclusive future!




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