Neurodiversity, the natural diversity of human minds, affects how we respond to stimuli. It is estimated that 15-20% of the population is neuroatypical. Modern offices should consider these differences by offering spaces tailored to various employee needs. Empathetic design enhances comfort, creativity, and productivity, fostering an inclusive work environment. Check out our solutions, including the new VANK_BOX_MOOD.

Neurodiversity involves different responses of different minds to the same stimuli. It’s about the natural diversity of human minds, which includes the full spectrum of the ways in which the human nervous system operates and develops. Diversity in the workplace concerns areas such as sociability, learning, attention or mood*. It is estimated that 15-20% of the population is neuroatypical**. Neuroatypicality is a term for a set of traits that mark people whose neurological development deviates from the typical pattern. This can be associated with ASD (autism spectrum disorder), ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), IPD (information processing disorders such as dysgraphia, dyslexia, dyscalculia), hypersensitivity (increased sensitivity to environmental stimuli such as sounds, light or colours) or hyposensitivity (reduced sensitivity to these stimuli).

EACH OF US IS UNIQUE

Modern approaches to team leadership take into account the importance of neurodiversity to foster a more inclusive organizational culture. Such a culture can translate into a better understanding of and more support for employees with different neurological qualities, which can contribute to increased involvement, creativity, and competitiveness in the workplace. It’s therefore a good idea to organize the work environment and the available space in a way that they benefit people’s behaviour and emotions, enabling different types of minds to complement each other and make the most of their potential. In many cases, neuroatypical people display multiple talents, and a properly designed office is the right tool to develop these talents. Moreover, neuroatypical individuals often show exceptional intellectual abilities, and their strengths far exceed those of neurotypical people.

EMPATHETIC DESIGN

The core idea behind inclusive design is empathy. Our empathetic approach to designing objects in space takes into account the specific needs of neuroatypical people. We believe that everyone deserves a comfortable, ergonomic, and accessible environment, regardless of neurological predisposition. A state-of-the-art office space makes it possible to acquire, hire, and facilitate the growth of a diverse workforce, while providing a welcoming setting for partners, suppliers, and clients alike.

Designing with the uniqueness of each employee in mind means designing for different preferences by offering employees a range of choices. These choices may take the form of open-plan spaces and common areas conducive to dynamic interactions, as well as closed rooms that make it much easier to focus.

There are several principles of space design that take inclusivity into account:

• a clear layout of objects and furniture makes it easier to ‘get the hang’ of the space and move around, which is crucial for all users — especially neuroatypical individuals.
• a clear demarcation of silent zones for those who prefer a quiet work environment and zones that foster creativity and collaboration for those who enjoy a dynamic atmosphere supports the diverse needs of all employees.
• we design spaces with people with mobility limitations and disabilities in mind, providing them with easy access to all office areas.
• we use proper acoustics, the right materials and finishes, as well as adjustable lighting and temperature to minimise stimuli are some of our design priorities. We arrange spaces for light-sensitive people. We also control the number of people in a given space to avoid sensory overload.
• the use of thoughtful, subdued or stimulating colours affects people’s mood and helps create the right atmosphere for both relaxation and productivity.

ACOUSTICS AND WELL-BEING

VANK acoustic pods are a means to maintain the balance between personal space and teamwork. Personal offices which do not require fixed walls and glazing enable employees to focus on tasks without external distractions, which lets them fully engage in so-called deep or focus work. The excellent acoustics of the pods will prove invaluable to those who need silence to focus and get their job done, or who tend to be easily overwhelmed by stimuli due to sensory disabilities.

The pods are also a kind of sanctuary for those doing meditation or listening to relaxing music. They are an ever-dependable retreat for confidential talks and project meetings as they keep distractions to a minimum.

Acoustic pods let you focus on the online meeting you take part in, enabling you to effectively build relationships and boast a professional business image through high-quality communication. The pods perfectly frame the user and provide a minimalist backdrop so that the focus stays on the speaker.

Thanks to the special design, seals, and the use of quality noise-absorbing finishing materials, curtains, and flooring, the pods effectively isolate their users from noise and make sure that what’s said inside — stays inside. The panels mounted on the pods can be made of biomaterial, non-woven recycled rPET fleece - grey or upholstered.

COMFORT AND A SENSE OF SECURITY

The pod boasts a durable and stable design. In addition, it offers:

• the multi-user pods feature LED ceiling lighting with a neutral light colour of 4000k and adjustable intensity, allowing users to brighten or dim the lighting to suit individual preferences,
• the quiet and efficient mechanical supply and exhaust ventilation system ensures constant air exchange, providing fresh air during use. In addition, multi-user pods come with a feature of ventilating their interior before and after meetings,
• an optional mono/stereo sound system to play audio/music from mobile devices via Bluetooth,
• all glass elements are made of double-glazed, laminated, and tempered glass, which makes them safe to install and use. Those experiencing anxiety associated with enclosed spaces will definitely appreciate the availability of open pods or pods with two glass walls,
• the acoustic panels and fabrics have been tested for flame retardancy in accordance with EN 1021-1 and EN 1021-2 (cigarette and match). Adapting the pod for connection to the fire protection system increases safety of use.

Additionally the pods can feature equipment such as mediaports, mobile device holders, and castors to move them across the floor. The inner and outer — smoothly upholstered — walls of the pod can come with a ceramic white magnetic board to write on. VANK multi-user video conferencing pods can be fitted with a ceiling or corner mount for a screen — which can be adjusted in terms of height, tilt, and swivel.

DIVERSITY OF FORM

The acoustic pods come in many combinations: with one or two glass walls and with the body covered with panels on two sides side or one side only (the other is then upholstered in plain fabric). This makes it possible to increase the amount of natural light (version with two glass walls) or reduce the amount of visual stimuli (with one glass wall with a door). What sets VANK pods apart from the competition is that they can have 3D acoustic panels installed on both the interior and exterior walls to act as sound-diffusers, which translates into office well-being for all those working an open-plan environments.

VANK offers several panel shapes whose names act as ‘labels’ for the collections they belong to. The undulating WAVE and neutral FLAT collections will have a calming effect, while DIAMOND, GLOBE, LENS, and COLUMN will stimulate the imagination and add an element of dynamism. People with autism may prefer clean, simple patterns over complex, irregular ones. On the other hand, those bubbling with energy can freely write down their thoughts on magnetic whiteboards used to create moodboards, roadmaps, diagrams — and incorporate them later on into their projects when working in focus mode.

Employees are increasingly looking for ways to use office pods as places to relax, recharge their batteries or meditate. By incorporating adjustable lighting, comfortable lounge seating or a pillow from RING collection, and a stereo system that plays the sounds of nature inside, VANK pods can become a highly pleasant working environment that promotes employee well-being.

PRIVACY AND AMBIENCE IN A NEW VANK_BOX_MOOD

When there’s need for privacy, focus or a special mood to accompany multi-user sessions, new VANK_BOX_MOOD offers the single-colour translucent Daybreak2 curtains from the renowned brand Kvadrat, designed by Patricia Urquiola. Available in 12 colours, these curtains are marked by an irregular texture and a look reminiscent of natural linen. They have a positive impact on the privacy, acoustics, lighting, and overall aesthetics of our pods, and can be offered with neuroatypical people in mind.

As lighting conditions change, so does their ‘expression’, so to speak. As a result, the mood created by the curtain evolves throughout the day, revealing eye-catching, intriguing colour and structural nuances.

Kvadrat curtains are also perfect for organisations that require privacy during important business meetings. They offer effective protection against unwanted prying eyes and, for instance, lip reading.

DOWNLOAD PHOTOS OF PODS WITH CURTAINS >>

CLOSE TO NATURE

VANK_BOX_BIO is a trend-setting innovative acoustic solution made from renewable plants. Interacting with natural materials not only brings a sense of comfort and security, but also has a relaxing effect. The material VANK uses to finish its pods is a biocomposite based on fibrous plants, i.e. flax and hemp. This natural material is lightweight and boasts sound-absorbing properties. This finish brings cosiness and homely warmth to mind. The light beige or brown colour lends a minimalist look to the interior, while the unique surface creates a new value. Thanks to the natural colour scheme and the geometric rhythm of the panels, the interior is full of harmony.

Creating biophilic spaces in the workplace will make employees feel more connected to nature. Surrounding ourselves with natural elements - such as plants, flowers, and sunlight - has a positive effect on our mood and emotions.

The external wall of the VANK_BOX pod on the left side can be optionally equipped with a system of modules for indoor plant cultivation - JUNGLE. As the green wall from the JUNGLE series is fully mobile thanks to a set of castors, it can be turned towards the source of daylight - in any season of the year.

Biophilic design solutions have a positive impact on air quality and acoustic comfort. They also reduce stress levels, regulate blood pressure, improve our mood and concentration, and act as natural antidepressants. Green walls make us feel calmer and happier.

*Source: Neurodiversity: The cases for and against.

** Source: National Cancer Institute.

DOWNLOAD THE "INCLUSIVE WORKSPACES" CATALOGUE HERE