Sensory-Friendly Home Design Checklist
Initial Assessment
Light Evaluation
- [ ] Map natural light patterns throughout the day
- [ ] Identify problematic glare spots
- [ ] Note areas with inadequate lighting
- [ ] List rooms with harsh artificial lighting
- [ ] Document seasonal light changes
Sound Assessment
- [ ] List all constant background noises (HVAC, appliances)
- [ ] Identify external noise sources (traffic, neighbors)
- [ ] Note echo-prone areas
- [ ] Map quiet vs. noisy zones
- [ ] Test acoustic properties in different rooms
Texture and Temperature
- [ ] Document uncomfortable surface textures
- [ ] Note temperature variations throughout space
- [ ] Identify problematic airflow patterns
- [ ] List areas with temperature control issues
- [ ] Check for unwanted tactile experiences (rough walls, transitions)
Visual Environment
- [ ] Identify areas of visual clutter
- [ ] Note overwhelming patterns or colors
- [ ] List areas lacking organization systems
- [ ] Document difficult-to-navigate spaces
- [ ] Check for visual distractions
Room-by-Room Implementation
Living Areas
Lighting
- [ ] Install dimmer switches
- [ ] Add task lighting options
- [ ] Set up adjustable window treatments
- [ ] Create lighting zones
- [ ] Eliminate fluorescent lights
Sound
- [ ] Add sound-absorbing materials
- [ ] Install white noise options
- [ ] Address squeaky floors/furniture
- [ ] Create quiet corners
- [ ] Manage electronic noise
Organization
- [ ] Set up hidden storage systems
- [ ] Create designated activity zones
- [ ] Implement cable management
- [ ] Establish cleanup routines
- [ ] Label storage areas clearly
Bedrooms
Comfort
- [ ] Provide weighted blanket options
- [ ] Install room-darkening capabilities
- [ ] Set up temperature control
- [ ] Create a sensory retreat space
- [ ] Add soft textures
Organization
- [ ] Implement closet organization
- [ ] Create morning routine stations
- [ ] Set up calm activity areas
- [ ] Manage visual clutter
- [ ] Establish a clean surface policy
Kitchen
Sensory Management
- [ ] Address appliance noise
- [ ] Manage food odors
- [ ] Control task lighting
- [ ] Create visual order
- [ ] Establish clean-as-you-go systems
Organization
- [ ] Set up logical storage zones
- [ ] Label containers clearly
- [ ] Create routine stations
- [ ] Manage counter clutter
- [ ] Implement maintenance schedules
Bathroom
Environment
- [ ] Control water temperature
- [ ] Manage steam/humidity
- [ ] Address fan noise
- [ ] Provide non-slip surfaces
- [ ] Install adjustable lighting
Organization
- [ ] Set up routine stations
- [ ] Implement storage solutions
- [ ] Create visual schedules
- [ ] Manage toiletry organization
- [ ] Control moisture/odors
Technology Integration
- [ ] Install smart lighting controls
- [ ] Set up automated temperature management
- [ ] Configure sound control systems
- [ ] Create custom scene settings
- [ ] Establish monitoring systems
Maintenance Plan
Daily
- [ ] Reset organization systems
- [ ] Adjust lighting as needed
- [ ] Maintain clear pathways
- [ ] Check temperature control
- [ ] Address immediate sensory issues
Weekly
- [ ] Deep clean sensory areas
- [ ] Update organization systems
- [ ] Check technology functions
- [ ] Assess space effectiveness
- [ ] Plan needed adjustments
Seasonal
- [ ] Adjust light management
- [ ] Update temperature controls
- [ ] Rotate sensory tools
- [ ] Deep clean all areas
- [ ] Evaluate system effectiveness
Emergency Preparedness
- [ ] Create backup lighting plans
- [ ] Set up emergency quiet spaces
- [ ] Establish backup comfort items
- [ ] Document emergency procedures
- [ ] Test backup systems regularly
Follow-up Assessment
Monthly Review
- [ ] Document what's working
- [ ] Note needed improvements
- [ ] Update systems as needed
- [ ] Plan next modifications
- [ ] Track behavioral changes
Quarterly Evaluation
- [ ] Review overall effectiveness
- [ ] Update seasonal needs
- [ ] Plan major modifications
- [ ] Assess budget needs
- [ ] Schedule professional consultations
