Designing for autism: prototype hotel room artificial lighting design

The hospitality industry is constantly evolving, with styles, colors, and designs emerging and receding, making old trends new again. While building and accessibility standards are emphasized, sensory design is less discussed. As more people are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) each year, the needs of travelers with ASD grow. Inclusivity becomes a priority, and designing for these needs becomes a key goal. This research focuses on designing sensory-sensitive lighting for hotel rooms. Current hotel lighting designs prioritize budget, energy efficiency, and aesthetics. However, with the increasing number of individuals with autism spectrum disorder and undiagnosed sensory sensitivities, its importance in creating inclusive lighting designs. This project focuses on guestroom lighting, highlighting the need for sensory-sensitive and inclusive designs, and reviews the current state of guestroom lighting as well as the cost implications of incorporating an inclusive lighting design package into the prototype guest room design.