FAQs

Students with ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodiversity often experience campus spaces differently. The most supportive environments offer a balance of structure and flexibility—such as adaptable classroom layouts, sensory-friendly zones, and quiet areas for focused work. Thoughtful lighting, furniture, and acoustics can make a dramatic difference in how students experience learning spaces.

Inclusive design goes beyond accessibility compliance—it’s about creating spaces that work for a wide range of brains and bodies. For neurodiverse learners, this can mean environments that reduce overstimulation, support different learning styles, and make it easier to focus, collaborate, or recharge. When spaces are designed inclusively, students are more likely to feel a sense of belonging and achieve academic success.

Sensory-friendly design starts with understanding sensory triggers—like harsh lighting, unpredictable noise, or crowded spaces. Solutions may include acoustic treatments to soften sound, natural or indirect lighting, designated quiet zones, and flexible furniture arrangements. Even small adjustments can help students feel more comfortable and engaged.

Many campuses are designed with a “one-size-fits-all” approach, which can unintentionally create barriers. Common challenges include overstimulating environments, lack of clear wayfinding, limited spaces for decompression, and inflexible classroom layouts. Addressing these thoughtfully can improve the experience for all students—not just those who are neurodivergent.

Inclusive design is the practice of creating environments that consider the full range of human diversity—including ability, age, neurotype, and background. It matters because spaces shape how we feel, think, and interact. Whether in a classroom, office, library, or lobby, inclusive spaces lead to better focus, stronger engagement, and a greater sense of well-being for everyone.

Environmental factors like lighting, noise, layout, and furniture directly affect how people think and feel. By reducing distractions, offering variety in how spaces are used, and aligning design with human behavior, organizations can boost productivity, support mental health, and create environments that people actually enjoy being in.

Open spaces can be lively and collaborative—but they can also be noisy and overwhelming. Acoustic solutions like ceiling baffles, wall panels, and sound-absorbing furniture help control reverberation and reduce distractions, creating spaces that support both focused work and group interaction. For neurodivergent individuals, good acoustics can be especially impactful.

Absolutely. Inclusive spaces benefit everyone—not just those with specific needs. A well-designed quiet room can help a student with sensory sensitivities and a graduate student preparing for a big presentation. Thoughtful design makes environments more comfortable, flexible, and human-centered for all users.

Every project starts with listening—to students, educators, administrators, and staff. We consider how different users experience the space and layer in design solutions that address sensory, functional, and emotional needs. Our interdisciplinary team combines acoustic expertise, architectural insight, and human-centered design to create environments that are both beautiful and practical.

Yes. While new builds offer more flexibility, many inclusive upgrades can be made to existing spaces—often without major renovations. Acoustic treatments, lighting adjustments, clear wayfinding, and flexible furniture can all be integrated into current layouts to make a significant impact.

Haworth’s product lines are built with flexibility, comfort, and sensory needs in mind, making them a strong fit for inclusive spaces. For example, ergonomic seating can support students with attention differences, and adjustable furniture allows spaces to be easily adapted for different users and activities. POE often integrates Haworth solutions into our projects because they balance design aesthetics with human-centered function.

Yes. Certain Haworth products—like Fern® chairs for ergonomic comfort, Hushoffice booths for focus and decompression, and flexible modular furniture—can help create environments that are supportive for neurodivergent individuals. These solutions reduce sensory overload while giving users more control over how they engage with the space. POE can recommend and customize Haworth pieces to align with your environment’s goals

We’re seeing a shift toward multi-modal spaces—environments that adapt to different activities, sensory needs, and collaboration styles. This includes quiet zones, wellness spaces, flexible layouts, and a renewed focus on acoustics and sensory design. These trends aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re becoming essential for attracting and supporting today’s learners and workforce.

POE partners with schools, universities, and organizations to design environments that are intentional, inclusive, and built for real human needs. Whether we’re improving acoustics in a library, creating sensory-friendly classrooms, or reimagining collaborative spaces with Haworth products, our team helps clients move from idea to implementation with clarity and expertise.

We begin with a consultation and discovery phase to understand your goals, challenges, and users. From there, we develop recommendations and design strategies tailored to your environment. Our team can support everything from concept development to installation, ensuring that your space reflects both your vision and your community’s needs.

The best place to start is a conversation. Reach out to our team, and we’ll schedule a time to discuss your goals and explore the possibilities for your space. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive redesign or targeted improvements, we’re here to help make it happen.

As a Best in Class Haworth dealer, P•O•E has access to global workspace research and product development. We have over 200 manufacturer partners like AIS, Global, Humanscale, and 9to5 Seating, just to name a few. We have a staff of talented designers who are passionate about creating functional and beautiful space that people want to work in. We have the capability to come alongside our clients and their partners as the expert in furniture and space planning solutions.

P·O·E is located in Maryland Heights, MO which is a suburb of St. Louis. We serve the greater St. Louis metro, we serve the greater Springfield, MO market with locally present design staff, and all of Southern Missouri, Eastern Illinois, and Southern Illinois. We also have international clients with projects all over North America.

Yes, You can always schedule an appointment to visit the P·O·E Studio.

Yes, our scope goes beyond most other furniture dealers, and we offer full design services, including space planning, design solutions, warehousing, installation, intermarket work, and warranty work.