CASE STUDY

Sensory Library in Session

Sensory Serenity at Danbury Library

Start My Sensory SpaceStart My Sensory Space
DESIGNUP logo for case study.svg__PID:a63fbea0-80e3-450a-87f5-ad555a8c7574Sensory space

The Background

Going to the library is a pleasurable experience for most, but for individuals with special needs, visiting public spaces can be a struggle. The directors at Danbury Public Library wanted to ensure that their library would be a safe and inviting space for the entire community. They approached Fun and Function with a unique request: Could the team create a calming sensory room within the library?

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The Vision

To create a safe and sensory-stimulating environment where library visitors can calm, self-regulate and focus.

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The Challenge

1. Housed within a local library, the sensory space would need to accommodate a wide range of visitors. Could the team create a space that would cater to kids, teens and adults?
2. The initial request took place in June and the sensory room needed to be completed by the fall. Would the team be able to complete the project in time?

Danbury Library Sensory Room
Empty room before conversion into a sensory space
BeforeAfter
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BeforeAfter
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Sensory room
child in sensory space
Sensory trailer corner with ball pit, led light cube and soft seating designed for a calming experience
Interactive Calming Station
The Process

Choosing the Sensory Tools

To ensure that the space would accommodate the library’s range of visitors, the team selected versatile products with broad appeal.

Interactive Calming Station

One Station, Many Ways to Calm

The Interactive Calming Station combines several pieces of equipment into a single wall-mounted unit, allowing visitors to select the activity that best suits their sensory needs and interests. The Fiber Optic LED Panel offers mesmerizing visual input while the interactive Color Changing Light Panel helps promote color recognition and visual tracking skills. Visitors can also cozy up on the padded bench and relax under the glow of the Waterless Color Column.

One Station, Many Ways to Calm

Interactive Calming Station

The Interactive Calming Station combines several pieces of equipment into a single wall-mounted unit, allowing visitors to select the activity that best suits their sensory needs and interests. The Fiber Optic LED Panel offers mesmerizing visual input while the interactive Color Changing Light Panel helps promote color recognition and visual tracking skills. Visitors can also cozy up on the padded bench and relax under the glow of the Waterless Color Column.

lime lite cube

Soft Light, Deep Calm

The LimeLite LED Cube and Ball cast a soothing glow, creating a sense of calm and serenity throughout the space. For a double dose of calming and grounding input, visitors can grab a book and sink into the Jaxx Lounger Jr. with a Weighted Stuffed Animal from the room’s collection.

Soft Light, Deep Calm

lime lite cube

The LimeLite LED Cube and Ball cast a soothing glow, creating a sense of calm and serenity throughout the space. For a double dose of calming and grounding input, visitors can grab a book and sink into the Jaxx Lounger Jr. with a Weighted Stuffed Animal from the room’s collection.

Close-up of Spiky Tactile Cushion

Flexible Seating for Better Focus

With so many books around, the team also included active, flexible seating options to help boost concentration and focus. The Spiky Tactile Cushions allow kids to safely wiggle and wobble while they read and the Noise Reduction Headphones support visitors who are sensitive to auditory stimulation.

Flexible Seating for Better Focus

Close-up of Spiky Tactile Cushion

With so many books around, the team also included active, flexible seating options to help boost concentration and focus. The Spiky Tactile Cushions allow kids to safely wiggle and wobble while they read and the Noise Reduction Headphones support visitors who are sensitive to auditory stimulation.

These sensory tools create a nurturing environment where kids can relax, explore and unwind in the way that works best for them.

Step 2: The Design Process

The design team focused on making the most of the space by using neat wall-mounted accessories and placing large items in the corners. Muted fluorescent lights were used to create a quiet, soothing atmosphere, ideal for reducing stress and calming.

3D rendering of a mobile sensory trailer layout with seating, lighting, and sensory features
Top view 3D layout of a sensory trailer showing the arrangement of sensory equipment and seatingSide view 3D layout of a sensory trailer showing the arrangement of sensory equipment and seating

The End Result

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Everyone loves the room when they get to see it!

- Sensory trailer visitor

The team worked tirelessly through the summer and managed to complete the room in time. Danbury Library was proud to announce the fall opening of their fully equipped sensory room!
The unique selection of products and equipment is now being enjoyed by visitors of all ages and abilities. Katherine Chung, the library’s assistant director, reports that there have been close to 100 reservations each month!

Child playing in a library sensory room with illuminated sensory features and calming activity areas
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