Project Udaan

At Arpan Charitable Trust, Udaan is a reimagining of space to support neurodivergent children better. A collaboration between Asian Paints and St+art India Foundation under St+art Care, this initiative recognises the need for environments that cater to diverse sensory needs and encourage interaction, self-regulation, and creative engagement. Traditional learning spaces often follow standardised structures that may not align with the way neurodivergent individuals experience their surroundings. Udaan challenges this by creating an adaptive,

sensory-rich environment that prioritises both stimulation and comfort.

The exterior of the school has been transformed into a large-scale mural that serves as both an artistic

landmark and a representation of growth. Inspired by the lifecycle of a butterfly, the mural reflects the journeys of neurodivergent individuals, each progressing at their own pace toward confidence and self-discovery. The design incorporates fluid forms, bold outlines, and rhythmic repetitions, offering structure while maintaining an engaging visual experience. Butterflies, birds, and elements of nature symbolise movement and freedom, reinforcing the idea that learning environments should evolve with their users. The mural’s colour choices and compositions are designed to be visually engaging while remaining mindful of sensory sensitivities. Strong contrasts and structured patterns provide a sense of predictability and ease, ensuring the artwork does not overwhelm but instead guides and reassures. The exterior of the building now signals that this is a space built with neurodivergence in mind—a place where every child is recognised and supported.

Inside, the intervention moves beyond aesthetics to create a space that actively responds to the needs of

its users. The interiors incorporate colour-zoning techniques to aid navigation and emotional regulation,

ensuring that transitions between different areas feel intuitive rather than abrupt. Tactile surfaces

encourage interaction, allowing children to engage with their environment through touch, supporting sensory

exploration and cognitive development. Cocoon-like enclosures provide quiet, enclosed areas where

children can retreat if they feel overstimulated, giving them the ability to self-regulate and engage with their

surroundings at their own pace. Each design choice is informed by an understanding of sensory processing differences. Instead of a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach, the space is adaptable, allowing children to

move between high-stimulation and low-stimulation areas based on their individual needs.

The artistic interventions within Udaan were led by Amrit Khurana and Anikesa Dhing, whose work

focuses on sensory perception and material interaction. Amrit Khurana, an artist on the autism

spectrum, contributed structured patterns and rhythmic elements that create a sense of familiarity and

predictability, helping children navigate their space with ease. Her work reflects a deep understanding of

how visual structure can support self-regulation and engagement. Anikesa Dhing’s expertise in tactile

design and spatial storytelling ensures that the interiors invite exploration, allowing children to interact

with their surroundings in a way that suits their individual preferences.

Udaan stands as an example of how art, design, and accessibility can come together to create spaces that support diverse ways of experiencing the world. By integrating artistic expression with functional adaptations, this intervention sets a precedent for how learning spaces and community environments can be more inclusive, ensuring that every child has the space to learn, explore, and take flight at their own pace.