Designing a socially inclusive public realm based on the experiences of persons within the autistic spectrum (AS)

Abstract

The built environment should strive to accommodate and enhance the human experience by fostering mental, physical and social wellbeing. Sensory pleasing, accessible, comfortable and enabling spaces are critical to promoting a good quality of life. This dissertation investigates the local reality from the lens of persons within the autistic spectrum, whose experiences are often neglected in architectural design, as observed from the lack of enforced policy and the state of local public spaces uncovered through this study. Academic literature revealed that atypical detail-oriented perception, experienced by persons within the autistic spectrum, can lead to a high influx of stimuli, elevated sensory stressors and slower global processing. Spatial and design criteria aimed at dissolving these seemingly invisible barriers to neurotypicals were compiled from existing ASD design guidelines and discussed in reference to prominent urban design literature. The relevance of academic literature conclusions was investigated in the local context through multiple participatory research tools. Interviews with mental health professionals and an online questionnaire provided a general grasp of the local realities, whilst participatory walks with persons within the autistic spectrum with low support needs provided in-depth phenomenological observations in local public spaces in Valletta. Analysed results were discussed, and prevailing themes were extracted. As the culmination of this dissertation, principles were proposed to drive architectural and urban design processes, promoting social inclusivity. These include adopting an inclusive, participatory design process, designing sensory-friendly, flexible and adaptable environments, carefully considering proportions, legible layouts, wayfinding, and factors contributing to a safe environment.