For children, adults, and seniors, sensory rooms provide a cozy escape for stimulating the senses in a controlled, safe environment. This is especially helpful for people with autism, dementia, PTSD, or anxiety. If you’re planning on designing a sensory room in your home or business, consider the following design factors before taking your vision to a professional.

Potential Design Elements of a Sensory Room

1. Size

Depending on the square footage and renovation budget you have to work with, the size of your sensory room may vary significantly. Luckily, these spaces can be functional as snug nooks or large, open spaces. If you’re starting with a nook, you can always expand or add onto the room as your needs and budget change. To include interactive elements or help an individual with spatial awareness, allow for a room at least the size of an average bedroom.

2. Temperature

This design aspect should be virtually imperceptible — in other words, the occupant should be unaware of the temperature because it’s so comfortable. If they’re too hot or cold, they may be unable to focus on their other senses. Regulate the temperature and humidity by installing a ductless system or fan and adding a dehumidifier or humidifier as necessary.

3. Lighting

The lighting in a sensory room should be on the softer side. For example, instead of harsh fluorescents, lean toward warm lamplight or antique tungsten bulbs. In some cases, try color-changing bulbs to manipulate the sensory experience at will. Some sensory rooms also feature black lights, creating a dark, calm, and intriguing visual display.

4. Sound

While you may incorporate sound effects or music into the sensory room, also focus on reducing sounds from outside the room. You shouldn’t be able to detect any noise from neighboring rooms or the outdoors. Therefore, choose a windowless room or add soundproofing materials to existing panes. Further dampen the sound by covering walls and ceilings with soft fabric, which will add a muted element.

5. Color

The pigment of the walls in the sensory room may not be of much importance if the lighting is dim. Instead, build an eye-catching color palette with projections, light fixtures, fiber optic toys, rugs, and furniture. Consider basing these colors on a theme, such as underwater or outer space, or take the preferences of your loved one into account. Depending on the purpose of their sensory room, the chosen colors may range from calming to stimulating.

If you’re looking for professional help designing a sensory room, get in touch with Lasting Impressions Home Remodel Center of St. Louis County, MO. They have been building sensory rooms for a wide range of clients, from seniors with dementia to children on the autism spectrum. They also provide home remodeling solutions for enhancing accessibility for people with disabilities. To learn more about their unique services, visit their website. Call (314) 837-7722 to schedule your free consultation.