November 7, 2025 – Haworth’s Workplace Research team has released “Neurodiversity: Comparing Sensory Needs in the Workplace,” a study revealing how organizations can better support neurodivergent employees. With 15–20% of the global population identifying as neurodivergent, and numbers rising among younger generations, inclusive design and flexible policies are essential.
Key design strategies for creating adaptable workspaces:
- Variety & Choice –offer a diverse range of workspaces that support different sensory preferences and work styles, such as quiet zones, collaborative areas and restorative spaces.
- User Control – empower employees to customize lighting, sound and airflow in their workspaces to reduce sensory distractions.
- Flexibility & Autonomy – implement flexible work policies, allowing employees to manage energy levels and minimize stress by choosing when and where they work.
- Sensory Considerations – minimize visual, auditory, olfactory and tactile triggers such as bright lights, visual distractions, excessive noise and strong smells.
- Supportive Culture – foster a culture of understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity through resources such as mentorship programs, employee resource groups and mental health services.
Research links inclusive workplaces to stronger business outcomes. Diverse teams are 70% more likely to capture new markets and inclusive companies are 120% more likely to meet financial goals.
Haworth recently hosted a discussion about “Neurodiverse Needs in the Built Environment”, providing insights into creating inclusive workspaces that embrace and support neurodiversity. The panel of experts included Dr. Jennifer Bott of Western Michigan University, Dr. Kati Peditto of DLR Group, Dr. Elena Sabinson of the University of Colorado Boulder and Kristin Reddick, Lead Research Specialist for Haworth. To view the full recording of this event, click here.
Kristen Reddick, Haworth’s Lead Research Specialist, joins a recent panel to explore the complexity of neurodiversity—and why the physical environment is a powerful place to start.
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Haworth believes great spaces empower people to thrive and work their best. As a leading global furniture maker, the company partners with customers, dealers and influencers to create spaces that result in effective people and efficient real estate. Haworth’s customer-first approach comes from an entrepreneurial spirit, design-forward thinking and multicultural perspectives. Founded in 1948, Haworth is a privately-owned company operating in more than 150 countries through a global network of 400 dealers and 8,000 employees. Headquartered in Holland, Michigan, U.S.A., the company has sales of $2.57 billion USD.