Autism is a neurodivergent condition characterized by differences in social communication,interaction skills, and sensory processing. The quality of life for autistic individuals is influencednot only by societal attitudes and support systems but also by the architectural attributes andspatial consideration of their surrounding environments. Access to inclusive and autism-friendlyurban spaces is essential for enhancing the social experiences and the participation of autisticindividuals and their families. Through spatial interventions, architects, planners, and designerscan significantly impact the sensory input within the built environment, creating spaces thatfacilitate social participation and increase the overall well-being of individuals. While existingresearch has largely focused on specific architectural interventions at a micro scale—such ashomes, schools, and public spaces—this study aims to broaden the discourse by examining thespatial characteristics of autism-friendly urban forms. The main purpose of this study is toexplore the impact of the built environment on the quality of life of autistic individuals. The studyseeks to contribute to the development of guidelines and policies for creating autism-friendlyurban environments that promote social inclusion and well-being for the neurodiversecommunity. Ultimately, this research offers insights for academics, practitioners, andpolicymakers invested in designing equitable cities.
Supported by funding from Leif Blomkvists Forskningsstiftelse (LBF)