Geneva Centre for Autism

Toronto, Ontario

Client: Geneva Centre

Meeting the complex educational needs of children with Autism was an unprecedented design challenge, for which we could find no model either locally or internationally. With the educators at Geneva Centre, we invented a flexible modular interior which would adapt to house the extensive learning tools and aids required; be easily modified for various teaching formats (one on one, small or large groups); and mitigate distractions while allowing natural daylight and supervision. Clusters of four students are accommodated in small top-lit studios where they can learn individually or in groups. The entire centre can meet and play in a large Gross Motor Room which acts as a sort of 'Town Square' for socialization and large group activities. A robust material palette in a monochromatic colour scheme was selected to decrease agitation and create an atmosphere of warmth, welcome, and calm.