The Autism Society Event and Education Recordings Archive

1.      Identify key environmental issues that have the most significant impact to the behaviors of ASD adults.

2.      Gain an understanding of how successful floor plan layouts and material selections can positively impact our ASD adults.

3.      Learn how the ideal group home setting can promote success and independence in our ASD adults and their relationships with peers.

Cathy Purple Cherry, AIA, LEED AP, is the parent of a 19 year old son on the autism spectrum and owner of an architecture firm that specializes in Purposeful Architecture - the design of environments for children and adults with special needs.

Currently, there are few residential options that are specifically designed to meet the needs of our growing ASD adult population.  What are the current challenges faced by ASD adults in today’s group home settings and how can specific design strategies be used to support adults with autism towards independence and social success?  What are the key environmental factors that should be considered in every group home design for the autistic population?  While the Americans with Disabilities Act mandates design guidelines for access items such as ramps, handicapped-accessible bathrooms, etc., there are many additional non-regulated and non-visible enhancements that can be incorporated in a residential setting that will better support specifically the ASD population.

 Ms. Cherry has identified several key issues for special needs environmental design that she believes must be addressed when considering the design of a residential setting for the ASD population or when considering a group home for your transitioning adolescent.  Some of the key design factors are:

1.      Personal and Social Space – Individuals with special needs often have difficulty in understanding Personal Space Requirements and the Social Dance that occurs between two individuals during conversation or path crossing.

2.      Distraction Inhibitors – Special needs individuals struggle with visible, social and auditory perceptual issues – the process of using the senses to acquire information about the surrounding environment or situation.

3.      Durability and Toxicity of Materials – The durability of selected materials is a consideration for the life cycle of the home.  Learn about durable materials that are visible as well as concealed and easily incorporated into the residential environment. Toxicity can also be very harmful to the ASD adult. Understand the materials that should be used in these environments for these sensitive individuals.

4.      Tranquility Rooms – Learn how these areas can convey respect and warmth through their placement and incorporation of simple design elements.

5.      Acoustics and other Auditory Issues – General sound levels, as well as white noise, can cause distraction to individuals with auditory issues.  Learn how the selection of materials and systems can help reduce noise levels in an effort to promote behavioral success.

6.      Colors, Patterns and Tactile Issues – Learn how these sensitivities must be considered when selecting finish application in the home environment.

7.      Outdoor Spaces, Security and Independence Issues – Outdoor spaces can provide individuals with areas to explore social contact as well as places to be left alone.  Learn about the different venues and opportunities that exist to help them build self esteem and bond with peers.

Ms. Cherry will walk you through various concepts and show you the effective solutions that she has implemented in the design of her Ideal Group Home for Adults with Autism. Her extensive first-hand experience along with her architectural education and practice allows her to teach others of her successful lessons learned over the past 30 years. Her singular goal is to provide independence and success for her ASD son and the special needs community.