Design an inclusive, functional, and aesthetically pleasing sensory room for Resilient Hearts' participants with developmental disabilities. The space should support sensory development, promote relaxation, and accommodate various sensory needs. Students will collaborate to design a sensory room that fosters physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being for individuals with developmental disabilities. Using interior design and space planning principles, they will create an environment tailored to varying sensory needs (auditory, visual, tactile, etc.).

Learning Outcomes:

• Understanding the therapeutic benefits of sensory rooms.
• Application of interior design, color theory, and space planning in a specialized environment.
• Knowledge of sensory integration techniques and the needs of neurodiverse individuals.
• Team collaboration in design, budgeting, and resource management.

Project Phases:

Week 1-2: Research and Ideation

• Research:
• Explore the purpose and benefits of sensory rooms for individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Study different types of sensory equipment and materials (e.g., fiber optics, bubble tubes, weighted blankets, etc.).
• Case Studies:
• Analyze existing sensory rooms in educational, medical, or therapeutic settings to understand best practices.
• Deliverable:
• A research report summarizing sensory room benefits and design features.

Week 3-4: Space Planning and Initial Design

• Site Assessment:
• Review the space available at Resilient Hearts for the sensory room (dimensions, natural lighting, etc.).
• Space Planning:
• Draft a layout plan considering zones for different sensory experiences (calm zones, active zones, etc.).
• Ensure the design accommodates participants with varying mobility and cognitive abilities.
• Deliverable:
• Initial floor plan and a rough sketch of the room layout.

Week 5-6: Interior Design and Material Selection

• Design Aesthetics:
• Choose color schemes, textures, and lighting to create an adaptable environment for different sensory needs.
• Select furniture, wall treatments, and décor that are both functional and therapeutic.
• Sensory Equipment:
• Identify key equipment needed (e.g., sensory swings, soft seating, tactile walls).
• Research suppliers and budget-friendly options.
• Deliverable:
• Mood boards, 3D renderings, or visual presentations of the room design.

Week 7: Final Presentation

• Presentation:
• Present the final sensory room design to Resilient Hearts, explaining design choices and how they meet the needs of participants.
• Include a proposed budget, timeline, and materials list.
• Feedback:
• Incorporate feedback from Resilient Hearts staff or participants into the design.
• Deliverable:
• Final project report, including detailed design plans, a list of materials, equipment suppliers, and a projected cost analysis.

Measurable Outcomes:

1. Completion of a detailed sensory room design plan (including layout, aesthetic design, and sensory integration elements).
2. A proposed budget that includes materials, labor, and equipment costs.
3. A final presentation to Resilient Hearts leadership, outlining the design’s benefits for participants.

Project Deliverables:

• Research report (Week 2)
• Initial design sketches and floor plans (Week 4)
• 3D renderings or visual presentations (Week 6)
• Final project report and presentation (Week 7)

Additional Notes:

• Students are encouraged to be creative while also considering the therapeutic needs of the participants.
• Budget constraints should be kept in mind, with a focus on cost-effective design solutions.