Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity

This chapter focuses on the concept of creating living spaces and lifestyles that cater to the unique needs of Autistic individuals.

Price references the work of educator and Autistic peer counselor Marta Rose, who writes about designing interior spaces for Autistic individuals. Rose suggests that such spaces should reflect the actual living habits of Autistic people, without shame or judgment. Price discusses the significant impact visual clutter can have on Autistic individuals, causing sensory “noise” and disrupting focus and emotional regulation. He notes that while some Autistic people may prefer minimalistic environments, others form strong attachments to objects, making it hard to declutter. He says that Rose suggests various strategies to balance these needs, including: displaying just one item at a time from a larger collection, cataloging objects with photos, and using curtains or closed bins to manage distracting items.

The chapter also explores how Autistic individuals experience time differently from neurotypicals, often working in bursts of hyperfocus followed by periods of rest and recovery. Price cites Rose’s view of the concept of time, which she sees as a spiral rather than a linear progression. Rose believes this depiction of time challenges the traditional, industrial model of time. By reframing the concept of time, Autistic individuals can better accommodate their unique work habits and sleep-wake cycles, embracing their natural rhythms rather than conforming to societal norms.