Trauma Informed Design Section 1

Humans are much more than a system of cells, tissues, bones, and fluids. We are complex, remembering, feeling, social, and emotional creatures. We carry with us our past experiences, our histories, our cultures, and our inner understanding and interpretations of the world.

As a means of protection, our past experiences and histories can significantly inform our inner interpretation of our environment. However, past experiences may suggest responses that, while once necessary, are not fully aligned with our current realities. Trauma, specifically, may result in an inner narrative that communicates concerns and vigilance about safety, privacy, and ability to escape – and while these narratives may once have been protective, necessary, and normal, they can make navigating spaces and places difficult.

The goal is to design spaces that minimize the risk of activating individuals, that allow individuals to recover and regulate if needed, and that ultimately foster inclusiveness and empowerment. In this article, basic principles and considerations for Trauma Informed Design will be introduced. It is important to understand that we enter this conversation with empathy, compassion, and a willingness to learn and improve. It is likely impossible to do this perfectly, but it is our intention to start a conversation, to inspire thoughtful human-centric principles, and ultimately to promote compassionate environments and cultures in which people feel safe and seen.

What is Trauma?

Trauma is almost universal, with about 70% of adults in the US experiencing trauma in their lifetimes.² This statistic may feel surprisingly high, given that many consider trauma to stem from a life-changing, yet discrete or distinct event. Trauma, however, may be experienced in innumerable different modalities, intensities, and durations. Trauma may be experienced as an individual, systemically, historically, and/or environmentally. And whether an individual internalizes an experience as traumatic may depend on innumerable differences as well: the intensity and duration of experience, whether appropriate support systems are in place and active, and whether there are additional considerations like preexisting conditions or multiple, simultaneous stressors.

In our discussions, we want to discuss the impacts of trauma, and not the event(s).

Inclusive Design

Trauma Informed Design principles are one pillar of inclusive design, along with considerations for neurodiversity, psychological safety, and other modes of diversity. It may seem overwhelming when we start to fully engage with the many unique (and justified) needs of all individuals. However, this work is not only to benefit the few – everyone within a space stands to benefit from these considerations. By including an ecosystem of spaces and places to support individual needs, we are also supporting different work styles and worker personalities. By creating environments in which all can feel safe and supported, we can empower employees to innovate, to be creative, and to show their unique perspectives.

Continuing the Conversation

We are committed to continuous learning about inclusive design. We look forward to engaging in conversations about Trauma Informed Design and implications for workplace culture and work points. Ultimately, we are committed to continuing to strive toward fostering well-being, nurturing connections, and supporting individuals.

Sources:

1. https://e4harchitecture.com/empathy-in-architecture-using-trauma-informed-design-to-promote-healing/#:~:text=The%20goal%20of%20trauma%2Dinformed,%2C%20art%2C%20and%20biophilic%20design.
2. https://www.sidran.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder-Fact-Sheet-.pdf