Case Studies in Action
We’re working with more and more organizations on projects that prove neuroinclusive workplaces work better for all. The brief case studies that follow are a few examples of how inclusive environments improve employee well-being, productivity and engagement across industries. Each project combines innovative design with practical, evidence-based design solutions with proven results.
To learn much more about the neuroinclusive design strategies for these four HOK clients, pick up a copy of Kay Sargent’s new book Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces.
Arup’s Birmingham Office: A Hub for Diverse Work Styles
“During a recent tour, an Arup engineer sought me out to share that he no longer experiences headaches, fatigue or anxiety from being in the office. As a designer, that’s the ultimate reward—knowing your work has positively impacted occupants.” — Tim Hatton,, Senior Interior Designer at HOK
Arup’s Birmingham office spans 68,000 square feet across three floors, serving 900 employees with a design that demonstrates neuroinclusive and sustainable solutions. The space supports the six modalities of work—from quiet focus spaces to collaborative zones—with circadian lighting, abundant plant life and acoustic treatments that reduce sensory distraction. Chapter 13 of Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces provides detailed descriptions and plans of neuroinclusive spaces for these six modalities of work.
Adaptable seating enables individual choice and control, while the ground floor serves as a community-facing space that hosts events and outreach programs. The office, certified WELL Platinum and BREEAM Excellent, has reduced stress and improved employee satisfaction, setting a standard for Arup’s global workplaces. The company reports a 10% increase in office attendance and a noticeable rise in social activities.
KPMG’s New York Headquarters: Flexibility Meets Inclusivity
“Creating an inclusive workspace benefits a far broader group than you might initially think. It’s like curb cuts—they don’t just benefit people in wheelchairs, they help everyone.” — Vanessa Scaglione, Managing Director of Real Estate Services at KPMG
KPMG’s 450,000 sq.-ft. U.S. headquarters in New York City occupies 12 floors, seamlessly blending flexibility with neuroinclusive principles. Drawing inspiration from the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, the design includes sensory-considerate “neighborhoods” with varied work settings, an egalitarian open, free choice layout with intuitive wayfinding supported by consistent amenity placement and visual cues. Cutting-edge technology, including smart room-booking systems, supports hybrid work, while active design features—such as a striking glass staircase linking floors—encourage physical movement and casual interactions.
Targeting LEED Gold, this adaptable space is designed to increase collaboration and reinforce KPMG’s innovative and inclusive culture, now and in the future.
AstraZeneca’s Cambridge R&D Site: Inclusivity in Science
"By aligning our broader diversity goals and corporate responsibility with individual-focused design, we can tap into and nurture an increasingly diverse talent pool." — Christine White, Head of Real Estate and Workplace Design at AstraZeneca
Opening in 2026, AstraZeneca’s Cambridge R&D hub will house 1,850 employees in 570,000 square feet of intentionally designed, inclusive space. The space incorporates varied lighting levels, sound-controlled zones and clear paths for navigation. Biophilic elements—including access to outdoor terraces and natural materials—enhance well-being, while community zones with cafés and informal seating encourage casual interactions. Quiet research areas are separated from busy areas to protect focused work.
The facility, targeting LEED-CI Platinum certification, combines environmental sustainability with inclusive design to support diverse scientific talent.
Fidelity’s Inclusive Workplace Initiative: Guidelines for Neurodiversity
“The beauty is that when you support neurodivergent associates, all associates benefit.” — Althea Kearney, Neuroinclusion Consultant (former Director of Technology Innovation at Fidelity)
Fidelity Investments’ new workplace design guidelines emphasize neuroinclusive design, offering quiet spaces for self-regulation with controllable lighting and varied seating options, balanced with active, energizing areas for engagement and stimulation A four-level assessment system helps teams audit their existing space and enables them to prioritize design strategies by cost, impact, and ease of implementation. A variety of adjustable work points and sensory-friendly spaces provide greater autonomy, while staff benefit from increased neurodiversity awareness, behavior-based support, and access to associate-led resource groups.
These initiatives are intended to improve focus for neurodivergent employees and enhance comfort for all staff, with the inclusive design benefitting the entire workforce.
Neuroinclusive Design for HOK's Seattle Studio - to be written
quote from Todd Buchanan? — Todd Buchanan, Senior Regional Practice Leader for HOK in Seattle
Description of SEA office neuroinclusive design
The Neuroinclusive Advantage
These five case studies show how neuroinclusive design enhances both collaborative and individual work. Each workplace demonstrates how thoughtful design helps everyone succeed.