From Intent to Impact: Designing for Everyone
Fiona Mckay
On October 8th, AIA UK hosted the first Diversity Equity and Inclusion focused event of the year.
In her talk, From Intent to Impact: Designing for Everyone, Natasha Trotman explored how inclusive and neurodiverse design can transform the built environment when we shift from intent to actionable impact. She unpacked key terminology around neurodiversity and neurodivergence, highlighted the differences between medical, charity, and social models of disability, and emphasised how co-production and intersectionality can foster truly inclusive design outcomes.
Some of the key takeaways included:
Understanding that diversity of minds is the norm, not the exception — there is no one “standard” brain.
The importance of moving beyond compliance to embed inclusion throughout the design lifecycle — from briefing to facilities management.
Applying neuroinclusive principles such as sensory zoning, multisensory wayfinding, and quiet restorative spaces.
Recognising the power of “Nothing About Us Without Us” — engaging people with lived experience as co-producers, not just participants.
Taking practical steps such as sensory audits, inclusive design review panels, and reflective practice to move from awareness to sustained impact.
We thank Natasha Trotman for speaking with the chapter and the attendees for their thoughtful engagement throughout the session. It was truly inspiring to see such a mix of perspectives and reflections from across our community. We also want to thank everyone who contributed to the Mentimeter poll. Your input will help us shape the themes and direction of our upcoming DEI sessions.
Our next DEI event will take place in the new year — please keep an eye out and follow AIA UK on social media for updates and future talks.
Thank you again for being part of this important and evolving conversation.
Written by Lulu Yang, AIA
