ambispace

No Space? No Problem! How Sensory Nooks Transform Small Areas into Inclusive Spaces

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 10:40:17 GMT

Sensory rooms are becoming essential facilities within businesses, schools, and all kinds of everyday places. But what happens when you don’t have space for a full sensory room? A Sensory Nook is the answer. Designed specifically as a compact sensory room alternative , it offers the same functional environment using a fraction of the space.

When we partnered with Nook Pod to create the Sensory Nook range, the goal was to create a cost-effective , space-saving sensory solution that fits seamlessly into areas where a full room simply isn’t possible. The result is a mobile solution that supports emotional regulation , sensory processing , and inclusion without requiring major refurbishment or building work.

Since then, we’ve installed them into classrooms, corridors, waiting rooms, offices, and many other places. Their compact footprint makes them ideal for locations that want a sensory-friendly space without sacrificing a whole room.

But, not only are they great for saving space, it makes sensory support more accessible. Instead of having to be removed from learning or social interaction, a Sensory Nook sits within the existing environment – ready to use whenever it is needed.

But you might be wondering what a Sensory Nook is...

They are mobile pods which comes in a variety of different models and sizes. They are sound reducing and covered in a soft padding inside. They include features like tactile fibre optic wall carpets, colour changing lighting to influence mood , interactive activity panels for positive distraction , and lots more.

Worried about privacy? A pull across privacy screen can be added to any Nook, closing the space off from view of others.

Can You Create a Sensory Space Without a Sensory Room?

Absolutely and that's the entire purpose of a Sensory Nook. Whether space is tight or you want a sensory resource that’s flexible, mobile, and durable, Sensory Nooks make support possible where a full sensory room just doesn’t fit.

They offer:

· Inclusion instead of exclusion or removal from class

· Flexible installation almost anywhere

· Lower cost compared to full sensory room builds

· A visible, easily accessed space for neurodivergent individuals

So, if you’re searching for a sensory room alternative , or you want to support neurodivergent children, young people or adults but don’t have a room spare, a Sensory Nook could be the perfect solution.

Find out more and view our range of sensory nooks at www.sensorynook.co.uk

How this Infants School Uses Their Sensory Room to Support Emotional Regulation Daily

melissa@ambispace.co.uk (Melissa Holling) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 14:20:28 GMT

“We Feel Very Lucky to Have This Room”: Riverhead Infants School’s Sensory Success Story

"We are extremely happy with the sensory room! Staff enjoyed sitting in there last night, and I stayed late to lock up and had a very calming hour to myself" - Emma Clarke, SENCO

This sensory room was designed specifically to support emotional regulation, and now it has become a vital part of student's day to day routine in school.

We spoke to Emma Clarke, the SENCO at Riverhead Infants' School 6 months on from the installation to find out how it has made a difference.

Emma explained that the sensory room is really benefitting the children, being clear in their vision to use it to support emotional regulation, rather than using it as a 'breakout room'. In other words, using the room proactively rather than reactively.

Having this resource timetabled in to some of the student's days means that their sensory needs are being met daily, rather than them becoming overwhelmed at school.

The students all enjoy different parts of the sensory room.

One child, for example, likes to organise all the fibre optic strands into various colours, to calm and organise.

Another stims and dances to the snow machine as he requires lots of movement.

Another simply needs time to talk and re-set with an adult each day (due to anxiety) so will put the music on and talk for a while.

The bubble tube has become a favourite overall, closely followed by the snowfall and rhapsody wall panels.

Does your school need a dedicated space for sensory regulation? Our dedicated team can help you create a space that reflects your vision.

Book a consultation with our design team to begin your journey.

Sensory Nook Brings Calm to One of the UK’s Busiest Train Stations

melissa@ambispace.co.uk (Melissa Holling) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 12:26:11 GMT

Bringing sensory to busy travel hubs

A Sensory Nook was installed in Manchester Piccadilly train station's Assisted Travel Lounge, offering passengers with sensory sensitivities a quiet space away from the bustling platforms.

In this busy transit hub, the Nook provides a peaceful and calming environment for those needing a respite.

The Sensory Nook pod is located near platform 1 and features soft-padding which helps soften outside sound as well as ambient lighting to create a soothing atmosphere.

With three enclosed walls, the pod offers a protected, cocoon-like environment for overwhelmed individuals to relax and regulate themselves in.

The Nook has been praised for promoting accessibility and improving the passenger experience.

Since the Sensory Nook at Manchester Piccadilly has been such a big hit, lots of other travel hubs across the UK are following suit, including Belfast Grand Central Station, who had their own bespoke Nook delivered earlier this year.

Ever wondered what its like to travel as a neurodivergent person who struggles in busy places? Watch our animated short video and discover how just a few moments in a Sensory Nook changed Guy's travel experience.

Sensory Nook on Broadway!

melissa@ambispace.co.uk (Melissa Holling) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 11:02:48 GMT

Creating a More Inclusive Broadway Experience with Sensory Nook

Live theatre can be a powerful, emotional experience, but for neurodivergent people, the noise, crowds, and bright lights can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why the Broadway musical "How to Dance in Ohio" made an important step toward accessibility by incorporating Sensory Nook pods both front of house and backstage.

The pods offered the production's actors and audience members quiet spaces to relax in, away from the loud intensity of the theatre. The Nooks accommodated sensory needs in the overwhelming environment.

The backstage Sensory Nook features subdued lighting and acoustics to provide performers with a quiet space to unwind between scenes away from the chaos of backstage.

In the theatre lobby, another Nook gives overwhelmed audience members a dimly lit escape from the clamour of the crowded hallways and theatre. The pods helped aid the participation of neurodiverse groups.

By integrating sensory-friendly spaces, How to Dance in Ohio took meaningful action to make Broadway more inclusive and welcoming for neurodivergent people both on stage and in the audience.

How Future Innovators Are Reimagining Sensory Spaces – 2025 Enterprise Challenge Recap

melissa@ambispace.co.uk (Melissa Holling) — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 14:17:58 GMT

The Primary School Enterprise Challenge 2025 Finals

Recently, we once again celebrated young entrepreneurs from across South Yorkshire at the Primary School Enterprise Challenge 2025 Finals. After sponsoring the event last year, we were thrilled to get even more involved this time around—our MD Kevin Wheatley and Design Team Manager Brendon Markham both joined the judging panel to help decide the winners.

The Challenge

Working in teams, the task was to design a new inclusive Sensory Nook for their school based on four exciting themes: outer space, the jungle, the beach and underwater.

While working on the challenge and developing their ideas, the children built real-world skills such as:

Problem solving – using a costing sheet to stick to a budget

Creativity – designing the Sensory Nook plus a matching team logo

Leadership – sharing ideas and guiding the team

Presentation – pitching their ideas and design to the panel of judges

The Finals Event

The event was even bigger and better than last year! We brought along two of our Sensory Nooks and our portable Sensory Igloo for the children to explore, and there was lots more to do:

There were loads of fun activities throughout the day, including:

Nerf challenge and archery
A magician and a stilt walker
A blind football challenge with Olympic-style sound balls
A photobooth to capture fun memories
A surprise visit from Bluey!

The Winners

There were lots of awards given out for different categories, but the overall winners were t eam Mission Impossible from Willow Primary School with their incredible jungle themed design.

This team wowed the judging panel with their outstanding creativity, attention to detail, and teamwork.

The Prize

The winning team will soon see their creation brought to life with a life size version of their Sensory Nook design installed at their school! Seeing their creativity come to life will continue to inspire the young entrepreneurs through their school journey and beyond.

Until Next Year...

What a fantastic day! We're proud to support a challenge that encourages creativity, inclusivity, and innovation in young minds. We’re already looking forward to what next year’s teams will dream up!

Think your school could be the next enterprise champions? Get in touch with Paul Robson to secure your place!

paul@primaryschool-enterprise.co.uk

07568355592

Introducing the Nook Stop – Making Shopping Inclusive at Frenchgate

melissa@ambispace.co.uk (Melissa Holling) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 14:11:15 GMT

The Nook Stop is coming on 3rd April 2025!

Finding a calm, quiet space in a busy shopping centre can be a challenge, especially for neurodiverse individuals who experience sensory overload. That’s why in partnership with Autism Plus we’re excited to introduce the first Nook Stop at Frenchgate Shopping Centre officially opening on 3rd April , just in time for Autism Awareness month.

We’re working with Autism Plus to create this space for the community because we understand just how impactful something like this can be.

For people who find busy environments overwhelming, shopping centres can feel inaccessible , but Nook Stop can change that . By providing a calm sensory space , we’re helping more people feel comfortable, confident, and included in everyday activities that many take for granted.

This doesn’t just benefit individuals, it also makes shopping centres more accessible and welcoming . When people have a space to regulate their sensory needs, they’re able to stay longer and enjoy their visit without the stress of sensory overload. This means more visitors for retailers , opening up shopping to individuals and families who may have previously avoided it.

What is Nook Stop?

Nook Stop is a sensory-friendly space featuring six Sensory Nooks designed to help individuals of all ages self-regulate. The space is open to all who need to take a quiet break away from the crowds. The goal is to make the shopping experience more accessible by providing a supportive environment.

What you'll find at Nook Stop

Take a virtual tour of the space to explore before you visit!

Nook Stop features six Sensory Nooks , each offering a unique experience to support diverse sensory needs:

Support – a functional respite area to lower anxiety levels. This is a great space to talk with the professionals at Autism Plus.
Ultra-Violet – provides maximum proactive calming and stimulation for individuals with visual impairment.
Shelter – designed for wheelchair users for accessible & high-quality sensory support.
Interactive – provides cause & effect feedback for engagement and active distraction.
Interactive XXXL – a larger space to explore the interactive elements or relax.
Escape – a discreet, enclosed space that reduces excessive sensory input.

There will also be a quiet seating area and colour controllable lighting inside, creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.

How to Book

To ensure everyone gets the time and space they need, Nook Stop is available by booking only.

Opening Days : Nook Stop will be open on Thursdays and Fridays.

You'll find the Nook Stop on the ground floor of the shopping centre, across from Boots Pharmacy.

Join us for the Grand Opening on 3rd April at 10am!

Find out more and book your session:

Celebrating Young Entrepreneurs: Primary School Enterprise Challenge 2024 Awards Ceremony

melissa@ambispace.co.uk (Melissa Holling) — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 09:43:08 GMT

Last week Ambispace managing director Kevin Wheatley had the great pleasure of joining the judging panel as The Barnsley Metrodome buzzed with excitement as young minds gathered for the Primary School Enterprise Challenge 2024. This annual event provides a platform for primary school students to showcase their entrepreneurial skills and compete against each other to win trophies, and this year a very special prize for the school of the overall winner.

The Challenge

Working in teams, these budding entrepreneurs tackled a real-life business challenge to design a range of imaginative sensory spaces that would support SEND and wellbeing in their school. Through this experience, they honed essential skills such as:

Creativity: working as a team to produce innovative solutions.

Problem-Solving: Addressing practical business issues including costing their proposals.

Leadership: Guiding their teams toward success.

Presentation: Communicating their ideas effectively through use of storyboards and descriptive language in front of a Dragon’s Den style judging panel.

The Winners

Among the standout schools were:

Edlington Victoria Academy: Their creative approach earned them recognition.

Willow Primary School: Not only did they win two awards, but they also impressed with their teamwork.

Carr Lodge Academy: Crowned the overall winner, Carr Lodge demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial spirit.

The Prize

Ambispace ltd have a passion for encouraging and enabling young people to raise their life aspirations and maximise their individual potential through education. It was a very proud moment when Kevin was invited by the event organiser Paul Robson to join the judging panel and add his specialist sensory knowledge to the selection of the exceptional winning entries. To show this appreciation and to encourage more schools and children to take part in future enterprise challenges, Carr Lodge Academy not only took the title and trophy of overall winners, but a wonderful new Sensory Nook that will be installed in their school by the Ambispace team for the start of the new academic year.

Interested in joining the winners in having your very own Sensory Nook? Check out the Sensory Nook website below.

Pentonville Prison Sensory Room: A Transformative Space for Neurodiverse Inmates

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Sat, 18 May 2024 13:24:21 GMT

In a ground-breaking initiative, Pentonville Prison has unveiled its new neurodiversity unit, complete with a state-of-the-art sensory room designed and installed by sensory specialists, AmbiSpace Ltd . This innovative rehabilitation room aims to enhance the well-being and self-regulation of inmates with neurodiverse conditions that in prison frequently leads to challenging behaviour and self harm.

The Neurodiversity Unit

Creating a Supportive Environment

The n eurodiversity unit is designed to cater specifically to the needs of neurodivergent inmates. Plain walls minimize visual clutter, while noise absorption panels ensure a calm atmosphere. Inmates can access earplugs to reduce sensory overload.

The Sensory Room

At the heart of the unit lies the sensory room, an intelligently converted cell providing a calming haven for inmates seeking support and solace. Here, inside a sensory calming oasis, they can explore tactile surfaces, soothing lighting, and positive interactive elements. The sensory room promotes emotional regulation, stress reduction, and self-reflection.

There were a number of challenges to overcome in the design of the sensory room. Firstly, it had to be secure and safe for adults who may be severely agitated and even violently destructive. It had to have a capacity for proactive and rapid calming with positive distractions and interactive engagement for self-regulation and exploration. It needed to be multi-sensory to cover a broad range of neurodiverse conditions and controllable to adapt to individual requirements. The space needed to be welcoming and comforting so it is seen as a positive intervention that can support therapy sessions. All these boxes had to be ticked and delivered strictly to budget.

Fortunately, AmbiSpace are leaders in bespoke sensory designs created to be effective in the real world where available spaces are less than ideal but filled with potential for a creative company with many years of experience.

Carrying out installation in a disciplined manner to a rigid timetable in such a secure environment needed meticulous planning too, which again required an accredited and skilled team effort.

Impact & Future Plans

Positive Feedback

Inmate Stephen, who has ADHD and Dyslexia, attests to the transformative power of the sensory room...

Stephen has spent two decades stuck in a cycle of in and out of prison. He describes it as a lifeline, helping him break free from the continuous cycle of reoffending.

The prison staff see it as a wonderful tool to support them in their roles as custodians and often carers. There is a reduction in violence, and self-harm amongst inmates leading to a reduction of staff absences through injury and stress.

"Put a sensory room in every single prison in the country"

- Neil Fraser, Custody Manager at Pentonville Prison.

Expanding the Model

Pentonville's suc cess serves as a model for other correctional facilities. The neurodiversity unit demonstrates the importance of creating inclusive spaces that prioritize mental health and rehabilitation to educate and break the cycle of reoffending.

Last month, AmbiSpace installed a similar calming sensory space in HMP High Down prison and have designs submitted for two more UK based prisons. The prison service and supporting NHS services are to be highly commended for such positive social actions.

Conclusion

The sensory room at Pentonville Prison represents a beacon of hope - a place where inmates can find respite, healing, and a chance for positive change. The BBC 10 o'clock news story gives a clear insight in to how effective sensory support for neurodiverse conditions can be not only for the neurodiverse individuals but the people working with them too.

Let us continue to advocate for such initiatives across the criminal justice system and let us increase the positive growth of sensory provisions in wider society to prevent the stresses building up in people who may then go on to become offenders simply because they cannot cope in the wider world without respite being available.

The AmbiSpace mission is to see more Sensory Spaces in Everyday Places for the benefit to all of society. By creating more available sensory rooms and Sensory Nooks in schools, libraries, entertainment venues, shopping centres and many other places most people see as readily accessible, we create an inclusive society that embraces the differences in how we function as individuals and contribute as a whole.

Feel free to share this blog post and spread awareness about the impact of sensory rooms in prisons! ��12

I hope you find this blog post informative and engaging! If you have any further questions or need additional details, feel free to ask.

This wonderfully positive story was featured on the BBC News at Ten on 16th May 2024. Take a look at the full story below.

Innovative Fibre Optic Star Wars Mat Helps Cody

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 13:41:55 GMT

With AmbiSpace’s new fibre optic manufacturing facility in place, we have been working hard over the last few months to create and innovate new fibre optic products to be utilised to help neurodiverse children.

This month, AmbiSpace supplied a fantastic Star Wars sensory fibre optic carpet to Cody Hepple’s son, Logan. Logan has several different neurodiverse issues that can cause sensory overload, the main one being hypersensitivity. Fibre optic products have been proven to have a naturally calming effect and provide visual stimulation for people who are neurodiverse and suffer from sensory overload.

Cody was thrilled with the new play mat for her son Logan and sent us a lovely comment.

“The sensory fibre optic carpet is a brilliant addition that my son loves, it's easy to clean and move around and safe to touch.

Logan has a multitude of problems, one being hypersensitivity. When he lays down on the rug it seems to have a calming effect on him, and he can really relax and enjoy the amazing colours while he listens to his favourite music.”

Contact us to find out how we can make your favourite themed carpet come alive with the skilful integration of twinkling fibre optics

Sensory For Mainstream Schools - Purpose

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 13:39:14 GMT

Having a clear purpose from the outset of what you want a sensory facility to do for you will help narrow down your search and avoid investing in something that doesn’t deliver as intended. Key points to decide upon are:

1. Is it to support a specific individual or for wider use?

Specific means it will be closely tailored to meet a narrow set of needs and behaviours. Wider use will require greater flexibility and adaptation within the space.

Specific

Tailored to the individual, focusing on the specific needs and behaviours of the user

Wider Use

Greater flexibility for multiple users and adaptation of the space

2. Is it a refuge area to manage crisis situations and meltdowns?

These areas need to be extra resilient and very safe when put under extremes of pressure. They should be actively calming and not simply padded rooms.

3. Is it for sensory calming or controlled stimulation?

Calming spaces may need room to lie down and relax, whilst stimulation may need interactive equipment and room to move about to release excess energy. Multisensory facilities meet a range of different needs, are more flexible in how you can use them and ensure you get maximum usage out of your investment.

4. Is it for educational purposes, to map into curriculum or support learning delivery?

Experiential learning is a powerful tool. As is being able to deliver your best performance supported by subtly supportive sensory add ins to an otherwise traditional classroom environment.
One to one work spaces do not need to isolate individuals but provide a protective bubble within a larger space.

Check back next week as we delve into the next article exploring the topic of “Place” when developing your own sensory space.

AmbiSpace Becomes UK Manufacturer of Specialist Fibre Optic Lighting Products

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 13:27:40 GMT

AmbiSpace Ltd is delighted to announce that they are expanding the company with the acquisition of machinery, equipment and materials following the closure of Flexion Optical Fibre ltd.

This exciting expansion ensures AmbiSpace continue to lead the way in the industry as Sensory Specialists with the capability for production and extrusion of fibre optic lighting products. AmbiSpace Ltd is now one of only two companies in the UK producing fibre optic lighting products and the only sensory specialist company with in-house fibre optic production capabilities.

Moving to a new unit near Scunthorpe in North Lincolnshire, AmbiSpace is thrilled to welcome three new members to the AmbiSpace team. Steve Lewis - Head of Fibre Optics, Cheryl Wrenn – Fibre Optics Technician Supervisor and Jenny Alexander – Senior Fibre Optics Technician. Formerly of Flexion Optical Fibre Ltd, they bring over 75 years of specialist experience, knowledge, and expertise in the field of fibre optics for sensory industrial, medical, and commercial product development, manufacture, and supply.

Steve Lewis said:

“We are looking forward to working with the AmbiSpace team and the exciting new challenges ahead as we help to make AmbiSpace the leading sensory company in the UK with new innovations and ideas to support people with special needs and neurodiversity in everyday places”

With this new facility, machinery, and expertise, AmbiSpace has already begun the production of bespoke fibre optic carpets at their new premises for supply to a commercial partner for use in the aviation industry.

Kevin Wheatley, Managing Director of AmbiSpace Ltd is confidently targeting the full extrusion and polishing lines will be up and running by January 2022 for full production of polymer and glass fibre optic lighting products.

“As a long standing client of Flexion we were immensely disappointed to hear of their plans to close the business earlier this year. It is an important product range for our sensory customers and not one easily replaced from elsewhere. We realised that other Flexion clients would be in the same boat, so we immediately began to look for a way to rescue the business and keep it going.

It was a challenging process, but a successful result delivers a giant step forward for AmbiSpace as we add UK manufacturer of a uniquely specialised product range to our portfolio of specialist services. Combining the exceptional skills of Steve, Cheryl and Jenny with our existing team of creative designers and engineers is going to turbocharge growth for the business and stimulate innovation in fibre optic lighting.”

AmbiSpace has a reputation for quality of service and collaboration with commercial clients and partners, with this exciting development they are looking forward to freshening up the fibre optics market and supplying innovative UK manufactured products to existing and new clients. If your business would like to learn more, purchase or develop products with AmbiSpace, please get in-touch via email to kevin@ambispace.co.uk .

Sensory For Mainstream Schools - A Quick Guide

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 13:22:02 GMT

So, you have been tasked with creating a proactive space within your school to support pupils with SEND and to help manage the mental health, social anxiety and wellbeing of pupils and students returning after lockdown.

You know of and may have seen sensory rooms and products being used in specialist schools but your expertise in working with SEND pupils does not really extend into the sensory area. A quick internet search pops up numerous suppliers and a plethora of dazzling products that look amazing, but how can you narrow it down to make sure you get the most out of your budget and provide the best support for your students?

Having worked with young people with special needs myself, and as a multi award winning designer of countless sensory rooms and products over the last 12 years I would like to share these focus points to help you in your quest.

Purpose

Having a clear purpose from the outset of what you want a sensory facility to do for you will help narrow down your search and avoid investing in something that doesn’t deliver as intended.

We will be exploring “Purpose” more in the next part of our guide.

Quality & Safety

Sensory facilities are frequently used by vulnerable people in society and that usage can often be quite robust. It is important therefore that the Sensory equipment, designs and installation are all of a high standard. We will be exploring “Quality & Safety” more in the sixth part of our guide.

Control

This is the most important factor in creating a successful sensory facility. There are two main elements to consider – Environmental and Interactive.

We will be exploring “Control” more in the fourth part of our guide.

Equipment

Each element of equipment within a sensory space should serve a purpose and offer something different to ensure you have optimum opportunity to meet individual needs and preferences. Whilst sensory equipment is deliberately bold and attractive it should be balanced to prevent sensory overload.

We will be exploring “Equipment” more in the fifth part of our guide.

Sensory Nook is a Certified Autism Resource

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 12:08:22 GMT

Sensory Nook Approved by IBCCES

What is a Certified Autism Resource?

IBCCES, an independent credentialing and certification board with a focus on cognitive disorders, is the accrediting body for the Certified Autism Resource (CAR) program, along with many other designations and certifications for professionals in the healthcare and education industries.

As a part of the CAR application process, a board of experts conducted a comprehensive board review to determine how Sensory Nook aligned with one or more of 6 areas of competency and, ultimately, how it meets the needs of individuals with autism.

The goal is to promote Certified Autism Resource partners to IBCCES network of therapists, educators, and parents to ensure they have the knowledge and access to products and services they need to improve the lives of individuals on the spectrum.

Sensory Nook met the criteria for Behaviour Competency as a compact self-contained plug and play sensory pod supporting people with Autism in challenging everyday public environments such as schools, leisure and retail parks and the workplace. It provides an escape or refuge that reduces sensory overload providing positive sensory distraction and a safe space to self-regulate and avoid crisis events.

Sensory Nook reduces excessive stimulation by lowering ambient noise levels in an otherwise open space. The internal foam padding and soft textures absorb and reduce background noise to manageable levels. The lilac colour of the upholstery is recognised as a calming colour for people on the Autistic spectrum.

The compact and sturdy structure provides an enclosing space that generates a sense of security reducing anxiety. The open front and peak roofline ensures the user can see exactly what they are heading in to and helps overcome resistance from someone approaching a crisis state. The Sensory Nook provides comforting, supportive personal space without isolating the occupants from what is going on in the wider environment. It eases the pressures that can lead to challenging behaviour.

There are a range of different configurations for Sensory Nook, all based around standard modular units that can easily be interchanged. This means they can be tailored to meet very specific personal needs.

Integrated sensory equipment provides a strong calming effect.

Fibre optic strands provide fidget distraction to divert negative focus and can be used as a weighting aid to reduce hyperactivity, excessive stimming and promote relaxation. The twinkling light effects are soothing.

Vibration in seat cushions promotes deeper seating, releasing posture tension and easing overtight muscles in lower back and legs. This can help promote higher levels of concentration when focusing on tasks and improved physical wellbeing.

Colour change lighting is quickly adjusted to provide stimulation or calming as required. The touch control panel has sliding scales for colour saturation hue and brightness and does not require a high degree of motor skills to operate. The angle of the LED panels effectively contains the light inside the Sensory Nook for a strong focused effect that does not impact upon others outside the Pod.

Specialised interactive sensory equipment in the form of wall panels and light tubes provides strong engagement and a powerful distraction away from a negative situation. The cause and effect feedback is empowering and promotes self-exploration and expression. These items readily switch between stimulating or calming to meet the individual need of each person using it. The wall panels can are supplied with a preloaded editable soundtrack of music or white noise to lower external sensory pressures further.

Sensory Nook brings individual choice and accessibility to individuals through a range of adaptable control options. Everything within the Sensory Nook can be turned on or off by the user. This gives them control over their environment and experience. Controls include large button switches, wireless remotes, built in pressure pads and tablet app. Any one or all of these options can be available in a single Sensory Nook for maximum inclusivity.

Sensory Nooks feature a mirrored wall panel. This permits the occupant to observe what is going on outside the Nook without having to look at it directly. This adds a sense of control and security. Inclusion without threat.

Scent is an option for Sensory Nook and can be used to stimulate memory or provide a specific sensory experience. It can be used to deliver a specific personally preferred scent for an individual to mask the multitude of external odours that can trigger adverse reactions. Delivery of scent is highly controllable to avoid negative responses.

The presence of Sensory Nook as a unit provides a reassurance for people with Autism that they can attend a public place knowing there is a safe space that will be accessible to them if they experience sensory overload. This reduces anxiety from the outset and promotes a much more positive experience not only for the Autistic person but their family and carers too.

Sensory Nook Supports the LA Raiders

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 11:58:57 GMT

Ford Motor Company Sponsors Sensory Nooks in LA Raiders New Stadium

The Las Vegas Raiders have partnered with Nook Wellness Pods to provide innovative support for fans with special needs who need a calming space to take a break from the excitement at Allegiant Stadium.

Inclusivity is a priority for the Raiders, and Allegiant Stadium is equipped to make the game-day experience unforgettable for all with the addition of two Ford Sensory Nooks.

The Ford Sensory Nooks provide mobile, acoustically quiet sensory pods to provide a haven of tranquillity and relaxation for neurodiverse people. The two Ford Sensory Nooks are located just inside the Ford North Entry Gate of the stadium and are equipped with a variety of functions to deliver soothing, calming effects.

These include vibrating seats to ease tension and reduce anxiety, a twinkling, fibre-optic carpeted rear wall to make the Ford Sensory Nooks feel emotionally secure, and colour control LED lighting panels which have a powerful subliminal effect on mood.

David O’Coimin, of Nook, comments : “To support such a world-famous brand as the Raiders in its pursuit of mental health inclusivity is a tremendous honour. Busy, noisy spaces can be overwhelming for many individuals, and our Sensory Nooks will ensure that all fans and their families are able to fully appreciate this incredible new stadium.”

“We are pleased to team up with Nook Wellness Pods to provide our guests at Allegiant Stadium an environment for those who need to take a break in a location that is calming and tranquil,” said Raiders President Marc Badain .

Immersive Classroom for Inclusive Learning

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 11:52:34 GMT

Immersive Learning Through Experience

An immersive classroom is totally different to a traditional classroom. It is not restricted by walls & windows but can recreate anywhere in time & space or the imagination of stimulated students.

An AmbiSpace immersive classroom uses high quality projection to create a strong visual wrap around. It then adds ambient sensory effects including dynamic lighting, wind, scent, smoke, sound & vibration to bring the imagery to life & turn it in to a shared virtual experience.

To this virtual reality we add full gesture & touch interactive systems giving greater personal control & flexibility to meet individual needs. Levels of engagement, stimulation, calming & sensory exploration are greatly enhanced.

An AmbiSpace immersive classroom is a cross curricula resource. It is supplied with ready made templates, content and apps ready to go for a broad range of subjects by key stage & including SEN specialist sensory support. It is especially well suited to providing a safe customisable space for students with social & emotional needs & high functioning Autistic Spectrum Disorders.

The technology is totally intuitive to use. The room is controlled by tablet app, interactive touchscreen & physical gestures. There are automated activities and preset templates that require no prior knowledge or technical expertise to start using. You will be able to create activities from scratch in minutes as well as bringing your familiar existing teaching resources in to the immersive classroom to give them a whole new & fresh interactive twist.

AmbiSpace transformed a tired old classroom in to the most engaging of interactive spaces

The St Johns immersive classroom (featured here), contains a three wall and a floor interactive projection system operated through an intuitive tablet app and powered by Immersive Interactive Software . This system brings the world in reach of everyone & encourages active engagement & safe exploration with cause & effect responses.

Students can visit otherwise unreachable places, experience sensations their personal circumstances make challenging and practice real world scenarios in complete safety. By experiencing a virtual world they are given a positive focus for raising personal aspirations.

The St Johns immersive classroom was created by experienced award winning professionals to be an engaging accessible teaching & learning environment that will also support SEN sensory integration & community group activities. It is the most flexible, controllable & interactive system available today.

The room contains the following features:

Dynamic lighting automatically changes the colour of the room to match what is being projected on the walls
With the tablet app you can select any colour on the spectrum to transform the room. Colour control is a positive mood influencer for SEN
The room is saturated in rich colours from responsive high quality LED lighting. It can help reduce challenging behaviours
Precise colour control makes a room accessible to sensitive individuals. It is effectively inclusive for ASD & dyslexia
The AmbiSpace nebulising multi-scent system adds realistic smells to immersive scenes, enhances memory retention & supports sensory integration therapies by desensitising & rehearsing real world situations
Powerful centrifugal fans create controllable wind effects & add sensory stimulation
UV flood lights create wonderfully atmospheric night scenes, help calm agitated students & enhance colours for visual impairment
The raised floor contains a powerful vibration system. Ramped access with handrail & LED light strips ensures a safe accessible entrance.
AmbiSpace, colour change picture panels. Set different moods of a fixed ceiling mounted image by changing the colour of the LED back lighting. Turn a blue sky to stormy grey, fiery red or an unearthly colour of your choosing.
An app controlled smoke machine adds excitement to scenes & creates stunning party effects when used with astro dome light
The astro dome light adds visual effect to stories, provides visual tracking for sensory support & is a great feature at discos & parties
Induction loop built in to assist hearing impairment
A wall mounted 55" Clevertouch interactive touchscreen provides a one to one workstation that can be controlled through direct touch or by linking other devices such as mobiles, tablets or laptops to the screen. It is supplied with an extension suite of educational software tools & free access to the Cleverstore cloud based interactive app store. The apps in here cover a wide range of topics including sensory, as well as being mapped to Key Stages they are awarding body approved.

The room itself is finished with hard wearing easy clean projection walls, commercial grade cushion vinyl flooring & a black suspended ceiling. The vinyl covered foam seating & step rail are manufactured to play industry British & European standards to ensure durability & safety.

Funding Educationally Inclusive Projects

The school fund raising drive for this immersive room was strongly supported by Wooden Spoon who are great backers of educational projects that help young people reach their full potential in life.

Classroom designs are produced by an experienced award winning creator of sensory & immersive spaces. All installation works are carried out by AmbiSpace qualified professionals including removal of existing fittings. We will take care of CDM project management compliance for you.

Sensory Rooms - Essential Tools or White Elephant?

kevin@ambispace.co.uk (Kevin Wheatley) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 11:45:45 GMT

What Makes a Sensory Room Effective?

"Multi-sensory therapy is an activity which usually takes place in a dedicated room where patients experience a range of unpatterned visual, auditory, olfactory and tactile stimuli. These rooms are designed to create a feeling of comfort and safety, where the individual can relax, explore and enjoy the surroundings". (Baker et al, 1997).

Sensory rooms first appeared in the Netherlands in 1970 as a safe calming space in which neurologists could observe mental health patients while they explored their surroundings using their senses. From this start the idea of a relaxing space capable of delivering multi and specific sensory stimulus evolved and expanded beyond healthcare and in to special needs education.

This evolution over the next 30 years came from a very narrow base and although it spread quickly there was limited innovation of products and design as suppliers largely grew in number by existing companies splitting and replicating what had been done before. Sometimes they did this very well and sometimes not so well.

I personally have visited many sensory rooms up and down the country, usually as a result of them reaching the end of their productive life and in need of updating. I have seen very good examples and some that left me with a sense of despair. What I have gained from all the places I have visited is the insight that a well designed sensory room is an extremely valuable resource for the people who use them on a daily basis.

There are two key factors that decide if sensory room is an essential tool or white elephant:

1. Control

It would be easy to think control is simply about how a sensory room can be interacted with, big button remotes, tablet apps and simple switches. Whilst these are essential access points within a room there is a larger control factor that is often overlooked.

A few years ago, I was involved in a project at a specialist educational establishment were a young man with severe physical and mental disabilities was prone to going in to violent crisis 3 times a day for up to 20 minutes at a time. During these episodes he would self-harm, which meant 3 members of staff needed to hold him down on a foam mat to reduce the risk of injury. A modern multi-sensory room was designed and installed within the unit in to which he was taken at regular times throughout the day. The result was his crisis episodes reduced to one every eight days.

This was attributed by the staff to the ability to create a personalised environment around him that reduced his anxiety and frustration levels. In addition to this calming effect the staff observed that although he had been statemented as completely blind and totally deaf, he was tracking the moving lights and turning his head in the direction of sounds. This enabled them to modify his personal management program resulting in a further reduction in the incidences of challenging behaviour.

The key to this was that the sensory room created a safe, controlled and therefore predictable environment outside of the normal world, that could be adapted to the very specific requirements of the individual. This intervention at key times allowed him to relax. From this relaxed state and free from everyday interferences, different sensory inputs could be introduced in a controlled measurable manner that uncovered the young man’s previously obscured true abilities. His life was improved and so was that of the staff who cared for him. The sensory room was the difference that enabled this young man to stay in the educational establishment he was in.

2. Inclusive by Design

Traditional sensory rooms are often heavily stacked towards visual and low ability provision. This in large part evolved due to the low level nature of technology initially available to suppliers creating the early sensory favourites such as bubble tubes. Often it is the accidental result of picking individual products on their standalone merits without an overarching design in place. We tend to shop with our eyes and I personally have visited many sensory rooms where this is evident to the point of sensory overload.

For a sensory room to be an essential tool it needs to be inclusive by design. With the range of technology available today it is an entirely achievable goal to create a single space that will meet the needs of all from very low to high functioning disabilities. It works best when the project starts with a brief that says,

“We don’t need a sensory room, we need a controllable space that shuts out the immediate World and creates an alternative personalised one. We need an adaptable environment that will influence the mood of occupants on their individual personal terms. We need accessible sensory experiences available to everyone who enters”.

Then you will have an essential sensory room that creates multisensory experiences, supports personal wellbeing and delivers differentiated educational experiences.

Kevin Wheatley

AmbiSpace Ltd.

Kevin is an award winning sensory and immersive specialist who designs rooms and pods to deliver technology driven experiences for special needs and education. He has previously taught young people with SEN and successfully recovered from the debilitating condition M.E., an experience that strongly influences his work today.