Neuro-Inclusive Design Project: Multidisciplinary Pediatric Therapy Office in Northern Virginia

Transforming a Blank Slate into a Multidisciplinary Neuro-Inclusive Pediatric Therapy Office

Our designer, Ashley, brings a unique perspective as a neurodivergent nurse certified in neurodiversity-affirming care. With both lived experience and professional expertise, she approaches each project with a deep understanding of how thoughtful environments can truly support the needs of every individual.

When we were asked to design a 2,500 sq. ft. multidisciplinary pediatric therapy office in Tysons Corner, Northern Virginia, we were presented with a blank canvas: white walls, drop ceilings, in a beautiful modern commercial building. Our client, a forward-thinking pediatric therapy center, wanted a space that was not only functional for occupational, speech, and pediatric therapists, but also welcoming, engaging, and neuro-inclusive for the children and caregivers who would use it.

We started with making a digital floorplan and mapping everything out to make sure our visions aligned.

Next, with a budget, we created a curated list for our client, that had pricing and links for each product, so if they chose to order/deliver/build out themselves they could do so. In this case, they chose our full service design services.

Calming Yet Playful Color Palette

Next, we create a color palette with paint codes for the entiere office. The client requested a calming, neutral palette that would feel soothing to neurodivergent children and their families. We hand-picked shades of soft blues, creams, and greens throughout the space, with subtle touches of color in each therapy room to visually differentiate spaces without overwhelming the senses. Every hue was carefully chosen so that, from any angle in the office, the colors blend harmoniously without appearing choppy or over-stimulating. They had a paint contractor already, so we were able to just hand them the paint codes and they were able to get the paint colors made with ease.

After the office was freshly painted, we began our full-service design and build-out. This is an ongoing project, and we’ll share more details and photos once it’s complete. Here’s a look at what we’ve accomplished so far:

Sensory and Interactive Elements

A highlight of the office is the custom sensory wall, designed to guide children along the path between therapy areas while offering interactive opportunities for sensory regulation. Thoughtfully mounted at heights accessible for both younger and older children, it helps them transition between spaces without demands, providing visual cues and calming input as they prepare to engage with their therapists.

Entry Hallway Before

Entry Hallway After

Playroom Design

Designing the playroom is a particularly rewarding challenge. The goal was to create a neutral yet visually stimulating environment that encourages open, independent play, something that can be challenging for neurodivergent children. The space is divided into zones for physical and calm activities, allowing children to explore safely and engage immediately without needing to request access or open boxes.

Therapy Playroom Before

Therapy Playroom After

Therapy Playroom After

A custom-built play structure will span an entire side wall, and include a climbing wall, monkey bars, a slide, and a fort. It will be painted to coordinate with the overall office palette and feature a hand-painted mountain mural as a scenic backdrop. String lights and playful accents further enhance the room’s inviting atmosphere.

Therapy Playroom Play Structure Before

Play Structure Inspiration

Thoughtful Reception and Waiting Areas

Initially, the client envisioned a small reception area by the entryway for caregivers completing forms. After assessing the flow and transition between spaces, we suggested moving the waiting area to a more central, open location between therapy rooms. This evolved into a coffee/snack bar where caregivers, staff, and children can relax. The space is painted a soft creamy white to differentiate it visually from therapy areas, offering a calm environment for adults while remaining connected to the overall office aesthetic.

Waiting Area Before

Waiting Area After

Waiting Area After

Flexible seating, fold-away desks, and wall-mounted chalkboards enhance the space’s adaptability. When not in use, fold-away desks double as warm wooden accents, maintaining the cozy, welcoming vibe throughout the office. Above the desks pictured below, there will be a custom color matched rainbow wave decal, continuing from the front desk space.

Fold away Desks

Simulation Room for Practice

A unique component of the project was the simulation room, designed to resemble a doctor’s office exam room. This space helps children practice and acclimate to medical visits, easing anxiety through realistic yet controlled play experiences. Lighting, textures, and furnishings were carefully chosen to mimic a clinical setting while still feeling safe and approachable.

Simulation Room Before

Simulation Room After

Simulation Room After

Simulation Room After

Lounge and Classrooms

The children’s lounge features oversized beanbag chairs, a soft rug, and a TV with subtle lighting, creating a cozy retreat for rest or quiet play. The office includes two therapy/class rooms, one for older children, one for younger, each designed with ease of access, storage, and flexibility in mind. Custom wall art and curated décor help define each space, creating a visual flow that guides children naturally throughout the office.

Children's Lounge Before

Children's Lounge After

Children's Lounge After

Younger Therapy Classroom Before

Younger Therapy Classroom After

Older Therapy Classroom Before

Older Therapy Classroom After

A Holistic, Neuro-Inclusive Design

Every element in this office was chosen with intention, from hand-selected colors and lighting to custom artwork, signage, and furniture. The result is a space that is functional, visually harmonious, and engaging, providing a neuro-inclusive environment that supports children’s sensory, emotional, and therapeutic needs.

The administrative office is being designed to be calming and cohesive, while also reflecting a feminine, modern, and executive aesthetic.

Admin Office Before

Admin Office After

Admin Office After

This project demonstrates how thoughtful, inclusive design can transform a blank slate into a space that nurtures learning, play, and healing, all while creating an environment that is beautiful, calming, and inspiring for everyone who enters.

Total time for this entire project from begining to end will be just over a month, most of the time is waiting on items/furniture to arrive.

While this particular project is being designed before the space was in active use, we also offer full-service design for practices and companies that are already operating. We carefully coordinate all design and build activities to ensure that your day-to-day operations continue smoothly, minimizing disruption while enhancing both the appearance and functionality of your space.

We also offer virtual consultations and can create customized design plans for clients who are not local. In select cases, we’re able to arrange out of town on-site visits to bring your vision to life.

Learn more and inquire aboutt our Neuro-Inclusive Interior Design services for physicians, therapists, and other businesses:

Neuro- Inclusive Interior Design Services

We are located in Northern Virginia and service the DMV area for interior design.

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