Application of ASPECTSS™ to the Design of Vocational Training Spaces for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that leads to a characteristic pattern of perceiving, thinking and learning. ASD, due to its complex nature, has not been given enough attention in design guidelines or building codes. Designing spaces in which an individual with ASD could be sensorily comfortable can potentially help in the management of as many of the symptoms as could be manifestations of their sensory discomfort. The personal interpretation of a physical environment affects the meaning attached to it. Thus, it becomes essential to design the built environment for individuals with ASD in order to maximise their independence and efficiency. Vocational training in craft-based skills involves a specific sequence of process requirements. The working environment can embody these requirements to be more conducive to learning for individuals with ASD. The study explored the application of ASPECTSS™, a design index, for the design and layout of the training institute. Based on the preliminary observations, the study mainly focused on three areas, acoustics, compartmentalisation and escape spaces. Improvement of acoustics through installing high noise reduction coefficient materials, provision of an escape space and collapsable structures for compartmentalisation were the interventions that were suggested to the institute.