6th June 2025 | IN INDUSTRY NEWS & BUSINESS | BY SBID Share Tweet Pinterest LinkedIn At Clerkenwell Design Week 2025, Karndean unveiled a powerful installation exploring how flooring can support neurodiverse individuals. Using the principles of neuro inclusive design, the experience highlighted how the built environment can meet both hypersensitive and hyposensitive needs—through calm, stimulation, and the thoughtful transitions in between. “Designing for neurodiversity is about more than accessibility. It’s about recognising and celebrating difference,” said Richard Allen, sales director at Karndean Designflooring. “Flooring plays a vital role in shaping how people feel, move, and focus in a space.” Karndean Calm and comfort for hypersensitive needs One half of the installation was designed to soothe. With soft wood grains, low contrast matte finishes and a muted, biophilic palette, the space showed how calm environments can support those sensitive to sensory input. A cocooning arch form added a sense of safety, ideal for settings like quiet rooms or waiting areas. Energy and engagement for hyposensitive needs In contrast, the other half stimulated the senses with bold geometric flooring, vibrant colours, and varied textures. Designed for those who seek stimulation to stay focused, this zone echoed the energy of play areas, gyms or breakout spaces. Every detail encouraged movement, curiosity and engagement. Karndean Supporting transition through thoughtful design Linking the two was a staircase that gradually blended calm and bold elements, demonstrating how transitional spaces like corridors and hallways can help people move comfortably between sensory states. Step by step, the flooring shifted in colour and texture, serving as both a practical and conceptual bridge. “Many environments are unconsciously designed around neurotypical experiences,” said Richard. “But inclusive design must consider the full sensory spectrum, and we believe flooring can be a powerful tool to do just that.” Karndean Turning insight into action The installation included talking points to spark reflection and conversation. It supported Karndean’s wider mission—empowering designers with the tools and knowledge to create inclusive spaces. Their RIBA approved CPD, Designing Neuro Inclusive Environments, offers practical guidance on how to integrate neurodiversity into every stage of the design process. With one in seven people in the UK identifying as neurodivergent, and only one in three feeling comfortable disclosing it at work, there is a clear need to design spaces that support different ways of thinking and being. Flooring, often the most visible and tactile element in a room, plays a significant role in that experience. “By combining insight, design guidance and products that bring calm and clarity to a space, we’re proud to support the growing movement toward more inclusive, human centred environments,” added Richard. Karndean’s installation was more than a visual showcase. It brought inclusive design principles to life and reaffirmed the brand’s role as a trusted partner for designers committed to making a real difference. To find out more and register your interest for the Designing Neuro Inclusive Environments seminar, visit karndean.com/cpd. About Karndean Designflooring Karndean is a global supplier of commercial and residential luxury vinyl tile flooring. We’re an industry leader in flooring design, offering a wide range of colours, textures and finishes, helping you create unique looks that are both stylish and practical; guaranteed to last. We see flooring differently. We travel the world in our quest to bring you exceptional floors that inspire and delight. From the ancient forests of Europe, to the remote Australian outback, we seek out expressive and intriguing forms in the natural world to influence our unique floor designs. By combining original features with cutting edge design, we create beautiful floors that bring your vision to life and take our clients on an endless journey of design discovery. Visit Profile If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.