Project Description

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often involves challenges with sensory processing, where children may be hyper-sensitive or hypo-sensitive to stimuli such as touch, sound, sight, and movement. These sensory difficulties can manifest as discomfort, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, or withdrawal from social and recreational activities. Thoughtful environmental design that addresses these sensory needs can play a crucial role in enhancing emotional well-being, self-regulation, and confidence among autistic children. Carefully designed sensory spaces provide opportunities for exploration, engagement, and controlled stimulation, allowing children to interact with their surroundings safely and meaningfully.

Indrya Dhara is a proposed lakeside sensory park in Bangladesh specifically designed to meet the unique needs of autistic children. The park combines therapeutic and recreational spaces with elements of cultural heritage, creating an environment that is both functional and aesthetically meaningful. Central to the design are interactive mud walls and natural play zones, inspired by Bangladesh’s traditional earthen architecture. These features offer a variety of tactile experiences through different textures, soothing earthy scents, gentle natural sounds, and visually calming spaces. The layout strategically includes both stimulating and quiet zones, catering to children with diverse sensory profiles.

By integrating tactile therapy with cultural artistry, Indrya Dhara goes beyond conventional playground design. It provides an inclusive and healing environment where children can explore, play, and learn while regulating their sensory experiences. The park fosters creativity, encourages social interaction, and nurtures confidence, all within a sustainable framework that celebrates local traditions. In doing so, Indrya Dhara serves as a model for how cultural and therapeutic design can converge to create spaces that are both meaningful and transformative for children with autism.