The Altro Neurodiversity Forum 2025 invites architects, designers, and built environment professionals to explore the crucial intersection of neurodiversity and design. On Wednesday 26th March 2025, at the Manly Pacific Hotel, this free one-day event will offer a comprehensive programme featuring expert speakers, a hands-on workshop, and a thought-provoking panel discussion.
The forum will delve into how understanding neurodivergent conditions such as Autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder can inform and transform design practices. Attendees will gain practical insights on creating adaptable, flexible, and truly inclusive spaces, ensuring all individuals, regardless of neurodiversity, feel valued and supported. The day will conclude with a networking dinner, offering a chance to connect with peers in a relaxed and collaborative environment.
Forum Highlights:
- Keynote Presentation: "Designing Neuro-Inclusive Spaces" by Patricia Falcetta, OAM – Patricia will explore how understanding neurodivergent conditions can shape the design of physical spaces that are supportive, flexible, and accommodating to all.
- Hands-On Workshop: "Building Inclusion: An Experiential Workshop on Autism and the Built Environment" led by Dr Tom Tutton and Emma Beardsley from Aspect Autism Friendly – This interactive session will focus on how design, materiality, and spatial organisation can be optimised to support autistic individuals in the built environment.
- Presentation: "Designing for Neurodiversity: Inclusive Spaces for Every Mind" by Jo Viney, Founder and Lead Designer of Brinnie T Design – Jo will share her expertise in Disability Inclusive Design, providing actionable principles for creating environments that are functional and emotionally resonant for neurodivergent individuals.
- Case Study: "The Lived Experience of Autism: Asking More Beautiful Questions" by Sarah Davis, Senior Project Manager, Construction Assignments – Sarah will showcase the positive outcomes of applying neurodiverse design principles in the refurbishment and expansion of autism-specific educational spaces.
Networking Dinner:
After the forum, join speakers and fellow attendees for a cocktail-style networking dinner from 6 pm – 9 pm at Felons Manly, East Esplanade, Manly Wharf. This is a fantastic opportunity to continue discussions, share experiences, and build connections in an informal setting.
Event MC:
Julie Ockerby, Principal Creative Director of Meli Studio, will lead the day’s proceedings. Julie is a respected leader in inclusive design and has been recognised for her pioneering work in creating spaces that cater to diverse populations, including the ageing and neurodiverse communities.
Limited Places Available
This is a unique opportunity for professionals in the architecture and design industries to gain valuable insights into neurodiverse-friendly design practices. Spaces are limited, so early registration is essential. For more information and to register, please visit this
link.
