Ocean-Themed Sensory Room

Sketch of the Sensory Room

The Project

At the National Children’s Museum, I was tasked with making a mock-up and finding accessories and furniture for an overhaul of the museum’s sensory room.

What is a sensory room?

A sensory room is “an environment for which primary senses are stimulated by wonderful combinations of music, lighting effects, gentle vibrations, tactile sensations and aromas.” They can help visitors "learn to interact with the world around them in a safe environment that builds up their confidence and their ability.” Sensory rooms can be found in children’s museums, science centers, and hospitals to give visitors a calming space to get away from stressful environments.

What do other sensory rooms look like?

Here is one at Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital.

Here is one at Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital in Baltimore.

Here is some research from DCC Design Group and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital on multisensory rooms in clinical settings.

Why an ocean theme?

Oceans are calming! There is research that suggests the beach and ocean calm us from stressful stimuli and ground us and improve our mood. Likewise, marine biology is a common career path for children.

What should go in an ocean-themed sensory room?

This sample floorplan is not representative of any real-life space.