What's Happening?
Perth Airport has opened Australia's first airport Sensory Room, designed to enhance the travel experience for neurodivergent passengers and their carers. Located in Terminal 1 International's Departure Lounge Area, the room features three distinct zones with adjustable lighting and sound, soft furnishings, and tactile exploration panels. The project, led by Plus Architecture, involved extensive community consultation to ensure the space meets the needs of neurodivergent individuals. The Sensory Room has already received recognition, winning an award for Small Project Architecture.
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Why It's Important?
The introduction of a Sensory Room at Perth Airport marks a significant advancement in creating inclusive travel environments. It addresses the needs of neurodivergent individuals, who make up a substantial portion of the population, and their carers, providing a calming space in the often overwhelming airport setting. This initiative sets a precedent for other airports and public venues to consider similar accommodations, promoting accessibility and inclusivity. The project highlights the importance of community engagement in designing spaces that cater to diverse needs.
What's Next?
The Sensory Room will continue to serve as a model for inclusive design, potentially influencing other airports and public spaces to adopt similar facilities. Plus Architecture's approach may inspire further innovations in accessible design across various sectors. The room's success could lead to increased demand for sensory-friendly environments, encouraging more organizations to prioritize inclusivity in their design processes.
