Project Udaan

Udaan at Arpan Charitable Trust, a collaboration between Asian Paints and St+art India Foundation under St+art Care, reimagines spaces for neurodivergent children. It creates environments that cater to diverse sensory needs, encouraging interaction, self-regulation, and creativity. Traditional learning spaces often don't align with neurodivergent experiences, but Udaan challenges this with adaptive, sensory-rich environments prioritizing both stimulation and comfort. The school's exterior features a large mural inspired by a butterfly's lifecycle, symbolizing growth and self-discovery for neurodivergent individuals. The design uses fluid forms, bold outlines, and rhythmic patterns to provide structure and engagement. Nature elements like butterflies and birds symbolize movement and freedom, with color choices mindful of sensory sensitivities. The building signals a space designed for neurodivergence, where every child is supported. Inside, the space responds to user needs with color-zoning for navigation and emotional regulation, tactile surfaces for interaction, and cocoon-like enclosures for retreat. Design choices accommodate sensory processing differences, allowing children to transition between high and low-stimulation areas as needed. Artistic interventions by Amrit Khurana and Anikesa Dhing focus on sensory perception and material interaction. Khurana, on the autism spectrum, contributed structured patterns for familiarity and predictability, aiding navigation and self-regulation. Dhing's expertise in tactile design encourages exploration and interaction suited to individual preferences. Udaan exemplifies how art, design, and accessibility can create inclusive spaces, integrating artistic expression with functional adaptations, ensuring every child can learn, explore, and grow at their own pace.