Case study
Helping an industry see the world differently
Inclusive design is key to a world where everyone can thrive. Our client, Tarkett, blends research and technology to help designers and specifiers see through neurodiverse eyes.
The highlights
The majority of spaces are designed with a ‘one-size-fits-all approach. Tarkett set out to support specifiers in shaping more inclusive environments for the 10-20% of people thought to be neurodivergent - individuals with ADHD, autism and dyslexia.
Our job was to craft a thought leadership campaign to, quite literally, encourage placemakers to see things differently - aided by game-changing technology.
The challenge
Five years earlier the flooring manufacturer developed the world’s first virtual design (VR) dementia filter as part of its Human-Conscious Design® ethos - a commitment to create flooring that is good for people and the planet.
Building on the initial technology that allows designers and specifiers to see the world through the eyes of someone living with dementia, Tarkett launched a new VR-platform in 2024; The Human Conscious Design Platform. This time enabling people to experience first hand how neurodiverse individuals interact with the world.
The technology was the culmination of a two-year research and development programme to understand how colours, contrast, material textures, sound, smells and light can impact a person’s well-being.
And with increasing interest in 'neurodiversity' in mainstream media, Tarkett UK was ready to go to market, but wanted to do so in a sensitive and substantiated way.
Diving deeper
The work incorporated findings from The National Autistic Society, The Design Council and World Health Organisation. Most critically this asset was developed with input from professionals identifying as neurodiverse.
To glean further insights a roundtable was hosted with leading design publication, Mix Interiors, while the Tarkett team developed a RIBA CPD presentation for architects.
Launching the new VR technology in parallel provided a real ‘wow’ factor as specifiers and journalists were invited to experience it themselves at Clerkenwell Design Week.
The highlights
Human Conscious Design Principles Guide with insights and practical advice
Speaker slots at key industry events
Thought leadership features in key media titles incl Autism Eye, Architecture Magazine and Premises & Facilities Management
Roundtable discussion with Mix Interiors incl The Design Council, National Autistic Society and specifiers
Coverage secured in key trade titles incl Design Insider, Mix and SPACE magazine
Journalist and influencer engagement to drive footfall to Tarkett’s showroom for VR-demo
A flavour of our work
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