855773644-LEED-v5-BD-C-Reference-Guide-Launch-Edition - Page 505
Extracted Content
adjust conditions of the space itself. While adaptable spaces have the potential to benefit all occupants, sensory customization opportunities are particularly important for neurodivergent individuals — approximately 15–20% of the population — who may experience heightened sensitivities to environmental factors or stimuli like noise, light, and textures. [172173]
Rating system requirements are flexible to encourage highly specific design strategies. Projects must demonstrate optionality between zones or flexibility through personal comfort options for categories outlined in Table 4.
Table 4. Optionality or flexibility strategies
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Thermal environment | Personal control systems, warm or cool enclaves, radiant heating or cooling, transitional spaces that act as buffer zones between indoor and outdoor areas, or spaces with varying sun and shade exposure. |
| Sound environment | Combining active, high-sensory collaboration zones with quieter areas featuring sound masking, white noise, nature sounds, or acoustic alcoves for focused work, which aligns with the requirements under Option 4. Sound Environment. |
| Lighting environment | Combination of task lighting, dimmable lighting systems, circadian lighting that mimics natural daylight cycles in intensity and color temperature, zoned lighting controls, natural light zones, or gradual transition lighting designed to change in intensity to help eyes adjust. |
Project specific strategies that do not fit within the three categories, but meet the intent of Option 2, to create diverse sensory spaces, may be submitted for compliance. This may include spatial character, degree of stimulation, or other strategies to enable people to manage their own sensory needs. [174]
QUIET ZONES
Quiet zones are required for all projects pursuing this option. Quiet zones are crucial for neurologically inclusive spaces because many neurodivergent individuals, including people with autism, experience hypersensitivity, or sensory processing differences that make them more sensitive to environmental stimuli, particularly sound. For these individuals, everyday sounds that some individuals might easily filter out — like HVAC systems, conversations, or equipment noise — can trigger sensory overload, leading to increased stress, decreased focus, and
172 “Designing a neurodiverse workplace”, HOK, (2019), https://www.hok.com/ideas/publications/hok-designing-a-neurodiverse- workplace/, accessed October 26, 2021. 173 Doyle N., “Neurodiversity at work: A biopsychosocial model and the impact on working adults.” Br Med Bull; (2020), https://doi: 10.1093/bmb/ldaa021. 174 “Designing a neurodiverse workplace”, HOK.
U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, April 2025 Launch Edition 495