Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
LARC - Leeds Arts Research Centre
Joan Love’s research centres around the advancement of designing interior spaces for neurodivergent children and adults with sensory processing differences.
My research is founded on the knowledge that environmental sensory issues for autistic people are well established, yet design of the home and work environment is neglected. New insights concerning the optimal design of autism adult accommodation resulted in the innovative creation of ‘Ten Sensory Living Themes’.
Research spanning 10 years, into the Design of SEND Schools, Residential Colleges and Living Accommodation for autistic individuals, has informed the findings. Current specialist neuroinclusive consultancy work includes a co-working office building, The Jellicoe, Coal Drop’s Yard, London.
Please read an article on the live project, found here.
A shortened version of the article can be found in the ‘Future of Work’ supplement in The Guardian, published 11 Dec 2024.
The investigations built on my previous research into the design of eight case study schools and a residential college. Grounded theory method revealed various concerns, emerging from interviewing experienced autism-specific medical and care experts and Leeds City Council’s live autism adult housing project. Specific recurring sensory and communication issues were identified, framing a series of environmental design problems to be navigated.
The formulation of an original ‘Sensory Living model’ illustrates how local authorities can avoid seclusion and integrate meaningful “continuous learning opportunities” into autism-friendly adult accommodation.
Four of the research paper’s ten novel themes are spotlighted in this ‘The Conversation’ online article.
Themes from the research informed my Design for Neurodiversity consultancy work for HomeGroup housing association, prototype autism-friendly housing, and The Jellicoe, neuroinclusive co-working office spaces.
A selection of the Ten Sensory Living Themes have been incorporated into PAS 6463:2022: ‘Design for the mind - Guide, The British Standards Institution which is referenced in The UK Parliament’s Adult Social Care Committee’s report: A “gloriously ordinary life”: Spotlight on adult social care, Published 08.12.22. Chapter 6, The importance of accessible and inclusive housing.
Joan is a member of NHS England’s national peer support/practice network for ‘Specialised housing design for people with sensory processing differences who require care and support’.
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