Designing Sensory Opportunities in Accessible Homes | Arkhi Care Explains

When we think about accessible design, it's easy to focus only on movement, how someone gets from one room to another. But true inclusion is about more than mobility. It's about experience, emotion, and how someone engages with their surroundings.

At Ridgeview, one of the key aspects we focused on was sensory design.

The family told us how much their son enjoyed the sensation of rolling over different surfaces in his wheelchair, especially varying textures like pebbles and paving. From that insight, we created a dedicated sensory path using a mix of stones and materials, designed to be used with support from carers or family members.

We also created a small sensory courtyard, centred around a calming water feature. The soft, trickling sound creates a peaceful atmosphere, one that invites stillness and relaxation.

These details may seem small, but they add up to something much more meaningful: a home that doesn’t just accommodate, but engages. A space that offers therapeutic value, enjoyment, and a deep sense of personal connection.

For case managers and deputies, this level of detail matters. It supports wellbeing, encourages interaction, and reflects the individuality of the person living there. Sensory design isn’t an extra, it’s essential.