Quiet Spaces/Rooms

As compiled by Rachel Marks - member of the ITAC Global Working Group on Accessibility, 2024. www.rachelmarks.ca

In this resource we will cover the following points:

• What is a Quiet Room/Space?

• Why do we have Quiet Rooms?

• Who uses a Quiet Room?

• How do we design a Quiet Room?

• What other things can we call it?

To Learn more, watch the video below and then view the resource. 

What is a Quiet Room/Space?

A Quiet Room or Space is an area for those who may need a moment for a break: to self-regulate, self-soothe, for a break from sensory (over) stimulation, to be authentically themselves.

Usually this is a room close to, but separate from, the classroom/theatre/workshop space.

Ideally it is a closed off room with walls, a ceiling, and a door, but can also be constructed out of dividers, flats, or pipe and drape

Why do we have Quiet Rooms?

Sometimes folks need a break - perhaps the class/show/situation is using all of their spoons (see info on spoon theory here) or energy; or maybe it was very loud or bright; or perhaps the smell of someone’s laundry detergent is bothering someone - no matter what the reason, it’s always great to have a Quiet Room/Space available for participants to go to.

Who uses a Quiet Room?

ANYONE! Really, we do mean anyone. Once a Quiet Room is set-up it should not be “policed” or “regulated” in any way except to be clear that it is not a social area for private chats, meetings, or phone calls. Whoever needs or wants to use the room should be able to.

Historically Quiet Rooms were included at Relaxed Performances - which come from the Autism community. Now that we understand the WHY behind Quiet Rooms, we can see the benefit of having such a space available for all people and are providing them for workshops/classes as well.

How can I Design a Quiet Room?

Setting up the space:

Seating: comfortable and varied. Include chairs with and without arms, beanbag chairs, floor (or yoga) mats.

Create a Table Fort: who doesn’t love a fort? Put a tablecloth or blanket over a table, then put a few pillows under it - this area allows for a type of sensory deprivation that some people may need or want in order to self-soothe/self-regulate.

Things to be aware of while designing: lighting (natural and artificial), noise/sound bleed from your class or other areas, access for those who use mobility devices, proximity of washrooms and exit.

Things to have in the room: 

Sound dampening headphones, sunglasses, fidget toys, weighted toys/teddy bears, modeling clay, colouring and (pencil) crayons - try to print off pages of colouring that tie-back to your topic, this will allow the participant to remind engaged with the topic while self-regulating, water, and/or blankets - any combination of these would be great to include!

What Other Things Can we Call it?

Examples of Indoor Quiet Spaces:

Examples of Outdoor Quiet Spaces:

Click here for Ensuring Access During the Event