DAISY Room: A Sanctuary for the Neurodiverse at KALEIDOSCOPE

DAISY Room: A Sanctuary for the Neurodiverse at KALEIDOSCOPE

At KALEIDOSCOPE, AV1 proudly introduced the DAISY Room, a low sensory space designed to accommodate the needs of the neurodiverse and individuals hypersensitive to light and sound. This innovative addition underscores our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility at live events, ensuring everyone can fully participate and enjoy the experience.

Creating an Accessible Haven

The DAISY Room was meticulously crafted with specific guidelines to provide a calming and comfortable environment:

• Low Lighting: We installed soft, adjustable lighting to reduce glare and harshness, creating a soothing ambiance.
• Sound Control: Noise-cancelling features and gentle background sounds were implemented to minimise disruptive noises.
• Comfortable Furniture: Ergonomically designed seating and furnishings promote relaxation and ease.
• Minimalist Design: Simple, uncluttered decor helps avoid visual overstimulation.
• Calm Colors: Soothing, neutral colors were chosen to create a peaceful atmosphere.
• Privacy: Partitions and areas were set up to offer privacy and reduce distractions.

Ensuring Inclusivity

During KALEIDOSCOPE, the DAISY Room included a live stream of all formalities, allowing guests to stay connected to the event while enjoying a quieter space. We proactively communicated the availability of this room in advance, ensuring that those who needed it were aware and could plan accordingly.

The response to the DAISY Room was overwhelmingly positive. Attendees appreciated the thoughtfulness behind creating such a space, highlighting the importance of considering neurodiversity and sensory sensitivity in event planning.

A Lasting Impact at AV1 HQ

The success of the DAISY Room at KALEIDOSCOPE has inspired us to make it a permanent fixture at our AV1 headquarters in Sydney. The room has been designed to offer a low sensory experience, featuring dim lighting and minimal sound, creating a tranquil environment for our AV1ders.

This space is a testament to our commitment to employee well-being, providing a much-needed escape from the high sensory demands of the work environment. The benefits are clear: promoting mental well-being, enhancing productivity, and fostering a supportive workplace culture.

Guidelines for the DAISY Room:

• No Meetings or Phone Calls: The space is intended for quiet reflection and relaxation.
• No Food: Beverages are allowed, but we ask that no food be consumed in the room.
• Maximum of Three AV1ders: To maintain a serene environment, we limit the room to three individuals at a time.

Uses for the DAISY Room:

• A Quiet Escape: Take a break from the busy workday in a peaceful setting.
• Tea and Reflection: Enjoy a cup of tea and collect your thoughts in a calm environment.
• Creative Break: Use the space for a creative reset, away from the usual hustle and bustle.

Inspiring Others

We hope the DAISY Room inspires other companies to create similar spaces at their events and within their office environments. By prioritising inclusivity and accessibility, we can significantly impact the well-being of our communities.

The DAISY Room is more than just a quiet space; it represents our dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone. As we continue to innovate and push boundaries in the AV industry, we remain committed to creating experiences that are accessible and enjoyable for all.