Autism ADHD Dyslexia Dyscalculia Dyspraxia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Tourette Syndrome Bipolar Depression Anxiety Disorders
This post emphasises the transformative impact of lighting on both the emotional ambience and practical use of a space. It encourages a shift from harsh lighting to softer, sustainable options that promote calm and well-being. By layering light and maximising daylight, one can enhance comfort while reducing environmental impact.… Read More Episode 1: Lighting for Calm — A Sensory and Sustainable Approach
There’s a particular kind of charm in noticing what doesn’t quite match. In my cottage, the skirting boards tell their own story—three of them in quiet agreement, and one that’s decided to go its own way. The wall with the wallpaper (post-four readers) hosts a skirting board of a different species entirely. Taller, with a… Read More post five: skirting the norm-a tale of nails & mismatched boards
This cottage doesn’t always make sense. The wallpaper doesn’t quite meet the ceiling. The cabinet doors don’t fully align. The paint peels below the window, and the light fitting still hangs unfinished—wires exposed—waiting, like a sentence left unfinished. They’re part of the rhythm I live with and they remind me that comfort isn’t about control—it’s… Read More post four: the quirks of the cottage
Image Credit: Mesut çiçen via Unsplash Series Introduction In a world that often feels overstimulated and overcomplicated, the pursuit of calm is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Beginning on the 4th October, this six-part series explores how design can be a powerful tool for cultivating calm—not just in our homes and cities, but in… Read More designing for calm: a sensory approach to sustainable living
Before and after images rebuilding with filler Living with a fluctuating neurological condition and navigating neurodivergence means that decorating isn’t a straightforward task. It’s a layered process shaped by sensory thresholds and emotional pacing. I don’t decorate quickly. I decorate slowly, with care and consideration, because it’s important to me. The process isn’t just physical—it’s… Read More post three: decorating as emotional labour
One wall painted with help, one still waiting. These images show the pace I’m working at—and the care I’m trying to hold. Painting the main wall with my daughter was difficult. The smell of paint, the texture, and the physical effort were uncomfortable for me—but having her there made it easier. It was a moment… Read More post two: decorating when it’s hard
These two images show the painting before and after. Living with a fluctuating neurological, and mental health condition alongside navigating neurodivergence means that my creative practice doesn’t follow a predictable path or rhythm. I experience fatigue, pain, sensory overwhelm, and emotional shifts that shape how — and when — I can make, decorate, or even… Read More Post ONE: A QUIET RETURN
ADHD, Autism, and OCD | Understanding the Overlap and Differences This Venn diagram highlights shared traits like sensory sensitivity, executive dysfunction, and rigid routines, while also showing what’s unique to each condition. You can explore it further on Neurodivergent Insights. I was diagnosed with OCD 25 years ago. Back then, there wasn’t much support or… Read More ocd, adhd, autism? i’m still figuring it out – and i don’t want to be defined by a label
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is most often associated with children, but autism doesn’t end at adulthood. In fact, there are many adults who live with autism—some diagnosed early in life, others only discovering their diagnosis much later on. Adult autism is a complex, often misunderstood reality, marked by unique challenges, incredible strengths, and a strong… Read More Understanding Adult Autism: Challenges, Strengths, and the Need for Awareness
Below is a link to an informative video about dyslexia. From the TedEd series of videos on YouTube. What is dyslexia? – Kelli Sandman-Hurley Dyslexia is a specific learning difference that affects how people read, write, and process language. It’s not about intelligence — in fact, many people with dyslexia are highly creative, analytical, and… Read More What is Dyslexia?
Rachel Bakewell 