Architectural Design for Autism Spectrum Disorders: Assessing Inclusive Strategies within the Nigerian Built Environment
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Abstract
Designing built environments that support individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) requires inclusive design principles that address diverse sensory and cognitive needs. In Nigeria, despite growing awareness of disability rights, specific design standards for autism remain undeveloped. This study presents findings from a structured survey conducted in Lugbe, Abuja, targeting 258 stakeholders including architects, educators, parents, and government officials. The survey gathered both quantitative and qualitative data on participant demographics and their evaluation of key architectural features for a proposed autism community centre (Tables 1–3). The most commonly prioritized features included low-stimulation lighting, accessible toilets, quiet/sensory spaces, wheelchair ramps, visual signage, and a sensory room each selected by approximately 40–45% of respondents (Table 3). Notably, only one-third of participants were familiar with formal inclusive design concepts, and nearly half had no prior involvement in inclusive design projects (Table 2). These results mirror international best practices that highlight the importance of sensory control, clear wayfinding, and refuge spaces (e.g., ASPECTSS and RIBA guidelines). In the Nigerian context where enforcement of disability access remains limited this study underscores the urgent need to embed autism-sensitive design principles into national building regulations. Practically, the findings support the adoption of neuro-inclusive standards such as controlled acoustics, predictable spatial sequencing, and transitional zones to promote accessible, autism-friendly environments aligned with global accessibility frameworks
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Copyright (c) 2025 Tiwo S. O., Ibitoye O. A., Olaoye G. O., Ajayi O. O. (Author)
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
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