Textiles & Neurodiversity: Our Research Insights

In the evolving landscape of workplace design, the conversation around neurodiversity is gaining momentum. As organizations strive to create inclusive environments, understanding the unique sensory experiences of neurodiverse individuals becomes paramount.

Haworth recently conducted a study exploring the intricate relationship between neurodivergent people and textiles. The study highlights how different materials can impact the emotional well-being and performance of neurodivergent individuals in the workplace.

Understanding Neurodiversity and Sensory Sensitivities

Neurodiversity encompasses the range of natural variation in how people’s brains work.  The term Neurodivergent describes a group of people whose brains process information, think, and behave differently from what is typically considered neurotypical.  These neurological differences can include diagnoses like, autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and sensory processing sensitivity (SPS).

Many neurodivergent individuals experience heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli, including touch. This sensitivity is not merely a preference—it is a physiological response that can influence stress levels and overall performance in the workplace. Our study aimed to explore how various textiles affect individuals with SPS, particularly in professional environments.

Research Methodology: A Closer Look

To gain insights into the tactile sensory experiences of neurodivergent individuals, we conducted live, in-person interviews with a sample of adults with autism in the Washington DC area, and a control group of neurotypical individuals. Each interview lasted approximately 30 minutes and focused on personal experiences with materials, emotional impacts, and coping strategies related to textiles in the workplace. 

Thematic analysis of the interviews revealed differences in awareness, body sensations, and emotional associations with fabrics between the neurodivergent and neurotypical groups. This comparative approach allowed us to highlight the unique experiences of neurodivergent individuals and the implications for workplace design. 

Awareness and Emotional Associations

One of the most important findings from our research was the acute awareness of fabrics exhibited by neurodivergent participants. Unlike their neurotypical counterparts, who often reported minimal concern for materiality, neurodivergent individuals demonstrated a heightened sensitivity to the textures and sensations of the materials they interacted with.

This awareness extended across all aspects of daily life, influencing their preferences for:

• Clothing: The feel of fabrics against their skin, which can influence their comfort and clothing choices.
• Furniture: The textures of chairs, sofas, and other furniture they use at home or work.
• Bedding: The materials of sheets, blankets, and pillows that impact their sleep quality.
• Workspaces: The surfaces they touch, such as desks, keyboards, and office supplies.
• Public Spaces: The materials in public places, like seats in transportation, restaurant furniture, and more.
• Personal Items: The textures of everyday items like towels, bags, and accessories.

Additionally, emotional associations tied to these fabrics were significant. Neurodivergent participants reported significant emotional connections to certain materials, with positive associations leading to comfort and negative ones resulting in stress or anxiety. For instance, soft and smooth fabrics often evoked feelings of calm, while a rough or scratchy material could trigger discomfort or even panic attacks. These findings underscore the importance of considering sensory sensitivities when selecting textiles for the workplace. 

Addressing Sensory Needs for Optimal Performance

The implications of these findings are particularly relevant for workplace performance. Neurotypical participants reported that fabric choices had minimal impact on their performance or well-being. By contrast, neurodiverse individuals noted a much higher frequency of distractions and discomfort. In some cases, the emotional distress caused by encountering uncomfortable fabrics could severely inhibit their ability to perform tasks effectively.

By understanding which materials evoke positive or negative responses, organizations can make informed decisions about textile selections used in the workplace—with the goal being to enhance comfort and eliminate tactile distractions.

Textile Evaluations: Participant Feedback

Our research included a comprehensive evaluation of various textile samples based on participant feedback. Haworth textiles with different features, such as Hallindal 65 by Kvadrat, Pemberton, Scapes, and Velvet, were assessed for their sensory qualities. Neurodivergent participants provided valuable insights into their experiences with these materials, revealing preferences that differed from the neurotypical control group. 

For example, Hallindal 65 by Kvadrat received low scores from neurodivergent participants due to its perceived roughness, while Velvet was appreciated for its smooth texture and visual appeal. Overall, one of our key findings was an overall negative opinion toward wool and wool-based materials. This was due to the rough and fibrous nature of the textile. The feedback also highlighted concerns about cleanliness and heat retention.

Recommendations for Workplace Design

Based on our findings, we propose several recommendations for organizations seeking to create neurodivergent-friendly workplaces:

1. Offer Options: Allow employees the opportunity to choose from a selection of fabrics—or a selection of chairs and desks with different materiality—to align with their sensory preferences. This gives neurodivergent individuals a feeling of control over their workspace, and the simple material adjustments can significantly enhance comfort and minimize sensory disturbances.
2. Educate Staff on Sensory Sensitivities: Help employees understand the unique experiences of neurodivergent colleagues. Provide training on neurodivergence and the impact of the work environment. This can promote empathy and collaboration. 
3. Incorporate Sensory-Friendly Materials: When designing workspaces, consider incorporating textiles that have been positively rated by neurodivergent individuals. Materials that are generally softer, smoother, visually cohesive, and aesthetically appealing can create a more comfortable and less distracting environment. 
4. Assess Workplace Comfort: Conducting periodic assessments of workplace materials and their impact on well-being, as perceived by employees, can help organizations stay attuned to the needs of their workforce. Feedback from neurodivergent employees should be prioritized in these evaluations. 

A Step Towards Inclusivity

As we continue to explore the intersection of neurodivergence and workplace design, it is essential to recognize the impact of in-office sensory experiences—including our encounters with textiles and surface textures. By understanding and accommodating sensory sensitivity, organizations can create environments that not only enhance comfort but also foster productivity and inclusivity. 

Our research serves as a call to action for organizations to prioritize the sensory experiences of all employees. By embracing neurodiversity and making informed choices about textiles—while also offering employees the ability to choose materials that suit them—we can pave the way for a more inclusive and supportive workplace for everyone.