With Kay Sargent, Senior Principal, Director of Thought Leadership, HOK

Inclusion is no longer just about access. It’s about performance, connection, and unlocking the full potential of every individual. As our understanding of neurodiversity and sensory wellbeing deepens, it becomes clear that inclusive design isn’t a niche concern - it’s a catalyst for innovation, productivity and engagement.

Inclusive design elevates the personal to the organisational, transforming difference into a design advantage and creating workplaces where everyone can thrive.

In this episode, we are joined by Kay Sargent, a global expert in workplace strategy and neuro-inclusive design. Kay brings over 40 years of experience helping organisations create environments that support wellbeing, performance, and diverse human needs.

She is also the author of “Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces: Advancing Sensory Processing and Cognitive Well‑Being in the Built Environment”, a groundbreaking guide on designing offices that support diverse cognitive and sensory needs.

This episode includes:

• Design for the Extreme, Benefit The Mean - how by designing for those with the most specific needs - such as neurodivergent individuals - we create spaces that are more inclusive, functional, and supportive for everyone.
• Environmental Conditions Drive Behaviour - why people don’t always choose where to work based on the task - they choose based on sensory factors like light, temperature, noise, and comfort.
• Sensory Intelligence Is Low - But It Matters - how most people are unaware of their own sensory triggers, yet these significantly impact wellbeing, focus and productivity. Raising awareness and designing for diverse sensory needs can transform workplace experiences for both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals alike.

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Season 1: The Comfort Zone produced in conjunction with Workplace Insight