Commonalities Between Interior Design and Sensory Design
Interior design and sensory design share a foundational commitment to shaping spaces that not only look appealing but also evoke a meaningful response from those who inhabit them. Both disciplines consider the interplay of color, light, texture, layout, and materials to create an environment that fosters comfort, functionality, and emotional well-being.
Where interior design typically emphasizes aesthetics and harmony, sensory design delves deeper into the psychological impact of these elements using science-based principles. It offers benefits for all people, and is particularly helpful for those with sensory processing challenges.
Both Interior and Sensory Design practices recognize that thoughtfully crafted spaces can profoundly influence mood, behavior, and engagement, making them crucial in settings where comfort and a sense of belonging are paramount.
Differences Between Interior Design and Sensory Design
This main difference between interior design and sensory design is that sensory design dives deeper into the science of human perception to create spaces that feel not only beautiful but also personally comforting and supportive.
While both interior and sensory design aim to create welcoming environments, they diverge significantly in approach and intention.
- Primary Focus
- Interior Design primarily focuses on aesthetics, functionality, and spatial harmony. Designers consider elements like style, color schemes, furniture, and decor to enhance the visual and functional appeal of a space.
- Sensory Design emphasizes how the environment interacts with each of the senses, and the specific needs of each client. Considering how sensory stimuli impacts individuals, particularly those with sensory processing differences. The focus here is on creating an environment that optimizes the intended function of the space, whether it be for balance and calming, minimizing overstimulation, or improving focus and enhancing energy and productivity. Sensory design enhances the environment to achieve that effect in a thoughtful and purposeful way.
- User Experience Goals
- In Interior Design, the goal is to make spaces visually appealing, efficient, and adaptable to general use. Interior designers often design for the majority, aiming for a broad appeal in residential or commercial spaces.
- Sensory Design is highly individualized for the specific needs of every client. Everyone is unique and has specific needs. Individuals with conditions like ASD, SPD or PTSD are particularly sensitive to their environment, and sensory conditions are paramount to their well-being. Sensory designers take into account specific sensory needs in terms of how it will affect each client, such as calming colors, specific lighting, sound-dampening materials, or tactile elements, to create an environment tailored to unique sensory responses.
- Design Elements and Materials
- Interior Designers may use bold patterns, trendy colors, and various textures to achieve a specific style or feel, focusing on balance and aesthetics.
- Sensory Designers are cautious about material choices, textures, and lighting sources, often selecting materials that reduce glare, noise, or other stimuli that could overwhelm. Elements are chosen to prioritize sensory needs, and while aesthetic is still important, it is complimentary to function.
- Impact on Emotional and Physical Well-Being
- While Interior Design aims to create a pleasant and enjoyable space, it typically does not delve into the impact of each element on a person’s sensory experience. Emotional responses are considered, but sensory needs are not always addressed. Some interior designers may have more awareness and experience than others with regard to the sensory impact of their designs, but it is not their focus.
- Sensory Design actively prioritizes the emotional well-being of every individual, particularly those with heightened sensory needs, creating spaces that support emotional and physical comfort and enhance the function of the space. The design decisions are grounded in empathy, inclusivity, and an understanding of how the environment directly affects stress levels, attention, and overall quality of life.
