The Science Behind Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces with Kay Sargent
Tune in to learn:
- What neuroinclusive design really means and how it differs from universal design
- How small accommodations can have a big impact on performance and well-being
- Why empathy, choice, and intentionality are critical in workplace strategy
- The business case for neuroinclusive environments
In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with Kay Sargent of HOK to discuss her groundbreaking book, Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces. Kay explains how neuroinclusive design goes beyond accessibility, tackling sensory and cognitive well-being to create spaces where everyone can perform at their best. She shares personal stories, research-backed strategies, and practical steps organizations can take to accommodate neurodiverse employees—ultimately boosting engagement, innovation, and retention.
Meet Our Guest
Kay Sargent, Director of Thought Leadership, Interiors, HOK
Kay is a principal and the director of thought leadership in HOK’s Interiors group. With a passion for using design to transform how and where people work, she spends her days (and many nights) working with clients on workplace strategy and design.
Based in Washington, D.C., Kay leads project teams that solve clients’ business and organizational challenges related to real estate business process, strategic planning, workplace strategy and change management. She collaborates with organizations ranging from tech startups to Fortune 500 companies to optimize their real estate portfolios and create the most innovative work experiences.
In 2025, Kay authored Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces: Advancing Sensory Processing and Cognitive Well-Being in the Built Environment, published by Wiley. This landmark book provides actionable strategies for creating more inclusive, adaptable environments that support neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals alike—drawing on years of HOK research, client collaborations and personal experience. It has quickly become an essential resource for designers, business leaders and workplace strategists alike.
Kay is a member of the International Interior Design Association’s College of Fellows, a select body of designers whose work has significantly influenced the profession. The American Society of Interior Designers also has honored Kay with its highest award, naming her a “Designer of Distinction” whose body of work represents excellence in interior design.
Outside of HOK, Kay serves on the prestigious Delos Advisory Board alongside wellness and sustainability advocates such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Deepak Chopra. She is also on the international board of directors for AVIXA, the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association. Kay is co-chair for the ASID Foundation research task force and on the leadership team of IFMA’s WE Workplace Evolutionaries and the advisory board of Work Design Magazine. She has also served on the board of directors for CoreNet Global and the International Federation of Interior Designers/Architects, and has served on the international boards of IIDA, ASID, NCQLP, IFI and NCIDQ. She is an active member of ASID, IIDA, CoreNet Global and IFMA.
Kay has authored numerous reports and articles on the workplace and has spoken at CoreNet, IFMA and other industry events. CoreNet and Tradeline, Inc. both have honored her as a top-rated speaker. A mentor to many, she is a founding member of the D.C. chapter of UPWARD, which accelerates career advancement for executive women.
Key Moments in This Episode
00:00 – Intro & Guest Welcome
Robert introduces the episode on neuroinclusive design and welcomes guest Kay Sargent, Director of Thought Leadership at HOK and author of Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces.
01:16 – Origins of the Book
Kay shares her background at HOK and how a client’s question about designing for ADHD sparked years of research that culminated in her book.
04:59 – Personal Insights from Parenting
Kay discusses how raising neurodivergent children shaped her understanding of sensory processing and influenced the core messages in her work.
09:05 – Defining Neuroinclusive Design
Kay clarifies what neuroinclusive design means, how it differs from universal design, and why it focuses on sensory processing and cognitive well-being.
14:33 – Designing for the Extremes Benefits Everyone
Using the curb cut analogy, Kay explains how solutions for neurodivergent individuals improve experiences for all occupants.
16:12 – The Problem with Open Offices
Kay critiques poorly planned open environments and advocates for distinct, sequenced spaces to accommodate diverse sensory needs.
19:04 – Why Acoustics Matter Most
Kay outlines why sound management is critical and how ignoring acoustics can undermine focus, comfort, and productivity.
22:36 – Empathy and Simple Accommodations
Kay highlights the power of empathy and small interventions—like shielding or quiet spaces—that enable employees to thrive.
27:30 – The Business Case for Neuroinclusivity
Kay cites research showing that neurodivergent employees can drive innovation, productivity, and creativity when supported.
29:50 – First Steps for Organizations
Kay shares actionable strategies such as providing choice, control, and flexible environments to support different work styles.
34:19 – A Moral Imperative for Designers
Kay frames neuroinclusive design as an ethical responsibility that, like sustainability, transcends competitive advantage.
38:31 – Guiding the Next Generation of Designers
Kay encourages emerging designers to embrace curiosity, evidence-based design, and intentionality in creating human-centric spaces.
41:22 – Industry Collaboration Is Key
Kay calls on firms, associations, and consultants to share research and work together to advance neuroinclusive practices.
44:15 – Leaving a Legacy
Kay reflects on her hope that the book will serve as a foundation for future designers to create spaces where all people can thrive.
45:27 – Where to Learn More
Kay tells listeners where to purchase Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces and learn more about HOK’s initiatives on neuroinclusivity.
About the Author
Robert Nieminen
Chief Content Director
Chief Content Director, Architectural Products, BUILDINGS, and interiors+sources
Robert Nieminen is the Chief Content Director of three leading B2B publications serving the commercial architecture and design industries: Architectural Products, BUILDINGS, and interiors+sources. With a career rooted in editorial excellence and a passion for storytelling, Robert oversees a diverse content portfolio that spans award-winning feature articles, strategic podcast programming, and digital media initiatives aimed at empowering design professionals, facility managers, and commercial building stakeholders.
He is the host of the I Hear Design podcast and curates the Smart Buildings Technology Report, bringing thought leadership to the forefront of innovation in built environments. Robert leads editorial and creative direction for multiple industry award programs—including the Elev8 Design Awards and Product Innovation Awards—and is a recognized voice in sustainability, smart technology integration, and forward-thinking design.
Known for his sharp editorial vision and data-informed strategies, Robert focuses on audience growth, engagement, and content monetization, leveraging AI tools and SEO-driven insights to future-proof B2B publishing.