20 Design Needs Every Brain Shares

All people (whether neurodivergent, trauma-impacted, or not) require the same fundamental conditions from design to live fulfilling lives. The human brain responds predictably to certain environmental inputs, and when these are thoughtfully addressed, environments consistently support stronger cognitive performance, wellbeing, and satisfaction. This session introduces a set of core neuroscience-based design requirements that shape how people perceive, experience, and perform within interior environments. Drawing from current evidence and applied practice, it highlights examples such as biophilic design, simultaneous sensory integration, to-place bonds, awe, and more. Attendees will gain insight into how environments support autonomy, competence, and long-term positive experience to drive outcomes that exceed expectations for everyone, with additional considerations to further optimize environments for particular groups