How to design an architecture adapted to the needs of people with a disorder of the autism spectrum and challenging behaviors?

Context: The interaction between individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and their environment can result in numerous physical, cognitive and behavioral challenges. Evidence-based design is a means to examine the relationship between design and care and use it to achieve a positive impact on patients’ health and well-being. Method: A literature review was conducted in a multidisciplinary manner (clinicians and architects) and complemented by ethnographic doctoral research focused on people with ASD, ID, and challenging behaviours. Results: We found 22 articles including 11 original research but only five specifically on individuals with ASD and challenging behaviours. Behavioural disorders or challenging behaviours are mainly influenced by the restrictive dimension of the environment and its sensory characteristics. To take into account the specific needs of people with ASD, interior architecture must distinguish five aspects: (1) interaction-contact between the person with ASD and his or her living space; (2) the intelligibility of the living space (e.g. predictability and routine of daily life); (3) the possibility of modulation between the need and/or avoidance of social interaction in the living space; (4) the balance between well-being and safety; (5) sensory difficulties and adapted facilities (e.g. retreat areas or sensory rooms, acoustics, lighting, temperature). Discussion: Architecture, as a discipline, uses best design practices to create individualized environments, engaging spaces that fit the specific needs of individuals with autism, helping them to deal with their environment, and encouraging their independence in the hope of preventing the emergence of some severe behavioral disorders and improving the individual's quality of life. More research should be conducted on this topic.