Sensory-friendly design was popularized to ensure everyone, particularly those who are neurodivergent, feels welcome in their environment. As explained in this article from The Guggenheim Museums and Foundation, the way our physical environment is designed has a strong impact on all of us, and by using practical sensory-friendly design strategies, we can reduce unpleasant sensory experiences.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, researchers estimate that between one to three out of every 20 people in the United States have sensory processing disorder (SPD). For people with neurodevelopmental conditions, these estimates are even higher. Today, though there is not yet a formal diagnosis for SPD, healthcare providers recognize the benefits of identifying any sensory sensitivities and adjusting your environment to limit any triggers.
Nonprofits like KultureCity, which has created sensory inclusive spaces at high-profile venues across the country, have put together helpful resources like their Sensory Inclusive Map, which features hundreds of inclusive venues all on one map. The more information we have on sensory-friendly needs and how to cater to them, the closer we get to making public spaces that are truly accessible to all individuals.
Tips for Creating a Sensory-Friendly Public Washroom
1. Choose Fixtures with Tactile Benefits
High-quality materials make all the difference when catering to tactile sensitivity. When you opt for stainless steel bathroom fixtures, they are designed to last longer and require replacement on a less frequent basis. Stainless steel is smooth to the touch and is resistant to rust, stains, and wear, making it ideal for high-use bathroom fixtures and accessories.
How the Ascent Universal Changing Table is Sensory-Friendly
Sova’s Ascent Universal Changing Table is designed with a large, comfortable plastic changing tray. The contoured surface is made of a single piece of smooth ABS vacuum-formed plastic, giving caregivers and their loved ones a pleasant tactile experience while using it.
2. Install Grab Bars for Built-in Support
Grab bars are an important safety feature of any accessible restroom. Having grab bars promotes a sense of security in your space, letting your guests know that you have invested in a reliable, convenient space for their restroom needs.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides the framework for accessible restroom design. For public washrooms where grab bars are provided in toilet stalls, the following installation requirements must be met:
604.5.1 Side Wall: The side wall grab bar shall be 42 inches (1065 mm) long minimum, located 12 inches (305 mm) maximum from the rear wall and extending 54 inches (1370 mm) minimum from the rear wall.
604.5.2 Rear Wall: The rear wall grab bar shall be 36 inches (915 mm) long minimum and extend from the centerline of the water closet 12 inches (305 mm) minimum on one side and 24 inches (610 mm) minimum on the other side.
Read more on ADA Compliance: Sova’s ADA Compliance Standards Guide
3. Avoid Harsh Overhead Lighting
Lighting is important. Bad lighting, especially when overly bright, makes a space feel intense and can give your guests a headache. Designing your commercial space to be well lit and feature indirect lighting sources, like wall sconces and pendant lighting, to create a calmer, more soothing space since the light is being diffused.
Alcon Lighting, an LED architectural company, explains on their blog, “An ideal restroom feels warm and inviting and provides sufficient light for washing, grooming, applying makeup, bathing or use of a water closet.”
4. Opt for Calming Colors and Simple Décor
Crowded, cluttered spaces can be overwhelming to use and may be overwhelming. Sticking to a straightforward, more minimalist restroom design helps reduce stress levels for guests. Colors found in nature, like muted earth tones, promote a sense of peace in any space and are easy to pair with a variety of public washroom products.
5. Avoid Strong, Overwhelming Scents
According to a 2025 survey from Tork of almost 12 thousand people across 11 countries, unpleasant smells or odors are the second most common reason that visitors will avoid using a public restroom. Additionally, for younger generations in the US, 21% of adults ages 18 to 34 years old would not return to a venue because of poor quality restrooms.
Prosper Health, an adult autism therapy provider, notes that scents can be a source of sensory overload, so part of any sensory-friendly design is considering whether scents are overpowering.
For property managers and staff, this means avoiding heavily fragranced items like strong air fresheners or cleaners. Instead, opt for mild or unscented alternatives to reduce potential overstimulation and unpleasant experiences for your guests.
Sensory-Friendly Design Benefits All
Sensory-friendly design not only improves the experience of those with sensory sensitivities, but the experience of everyone. Prioritizing comfortable, relaxing design for your commercial restroom space creates an environment guests will feel satisfied using.
Looking for the ideal changing station to complete your commercial washroom design? Shop Sova’s full line of sensory-friendly public washroom products.
