Sensory Interior Design focuses on how a space feels, not just how it looks. At Practical Sanctuary, sensory interior design is a trauma-informed process which incorporates acoustics, lighting, smell, ventilation, texture, biophilic design, sustainability, visual narrative, cultural narrative, and the relationships among every inhabitant of the space.

Sensory Interior Design takes into account the unique characteristics of every nervous system. It allows for people with different sensory processing patterns to feel comfortable, focus, think, learn, relax and heal.

Sensory Interior Design takes more factors into account than regular interior design. A Sensory Interior Design consultation examines the unique sensory profile of each person who inhabits the space, and creates a design plan which addresses acoustics, light sensitivity, visual overwhelm, trauma triggers, potential conflicts among sensory needs, and the function the space needs to support. If you work with an occupational therapist or other healthcare practitioner, a sensory interior designer can collaborate with them to support the unique needs of your nervous system.

Sensory Interior Design does not have to be more expensive than regular interior design, and can often be cheaper, depending upon your focus. At Practical Sanctuary we work with you to create a design plan that prioritizes using resources you already have. We only recommend adding new furniture, accessories and equipment when we have optimized your existing space. We practice sustainable sourcing, finding items secondhand, refinishing, refurbishing and up-cycling.

Sensory Interior Design creates spaces that are attuned to the needs of your nervous system. This helps your body feel fully comfortable and at home in your space. Feeling comfortable in your living and work spaces helps your body relax, focus, regulate your emotions, think, learn, sleep, and heal. Sensory Interior Design can help families with autism, ADHD, trauma histories, anxiety, and physical illnesses navigate conflicting sensory needs with intention and equity, strengthening both the mental and physical health and capacity of all family members.

Sensory Interior Design is for people who need a little extra support to feel comfortable and at home in your space. You or a family member may have autism, ADHD, OCD, hyperacusis, sensory processing disorder, anxiety, PTSD, C-PTSD, MS, traumatic brain injury, or simply be highly sensitive.

Sensory interior design helps people with different sensory needs navigate living and working together with comfort and minimal conflict. It can help you with moving to a new place, moving in with a new partner, or moving out on your own. It can help schools address the needs of all students, healthcare systems support their clients’ healing, and businesses create a more supportive, inclusive and productive workplace.