Duncan of the Institute for Human Centered Design speaks at IIDA’s Pioneering Design event

Manhattan, NY The International Interior Design Association’s New York Chapter welcomed Shaun-Marley Duncan, coordinator of design research and engagement and neuro-inclusive researcher at the Institute for Human Centered Design (IHCD), as the featured speaker for its October Pioneering Design event, “Designing for Invisible Experiences.”

Duncan’s work focuses on neuro-inclusive design, accessibility, and how the built environment affects people with diverse cognitive and psychosocial experiences. At IHCD, a Boston-based international nonprofit dedicated to design that works for people of all ages and abilities, she helps translate research into guidance that designers can apply to real spaces. Her perspective draws on both research and her own lived experience navigating environments that either support or hinder participation.

Duncan’s presentation examined how needs that aren’t immediately visible shape the way people experience a space. She discussed how elements such as lighting, sound, spatial layout, and wayfinding cues can affect individuals differently, and share emerging research and best practices in neuro-inclusive design. Following the presentation, attendees broke into groups for guided discussions on real-world design challenges across workplace, healthcare, educational, hospitality, and public environments.

“Most of us have been in a space that just didn’t feel right, even if we couldn’t say why,” said Grace DeGeorge, co-organizer of IIDA NY’s Pioneering Design committee. “This event gives designers the language and tools to identify those issues early, whether that’s rethinking lighting, adjusting acoustics, or planning clearer paths through a space.”

Added Sarah Rabanal, Pioneering Design co-organizer: “We wanted this program to be as hands-on as possible. The workshop lets attendees take what they learn from Shaun-Marley and apply it right away to the types of projects they’re working on every day, from offices and classrooms to healthcare settings.”

IIDA NY’s Pioneering Design Series continues to spotlight influential voices shaping the future of the built environment, offering a platform for meaningful dialogue across the architecture and design community. Tickets cost $209.93 and can be purchased at the Eventbrite link. The event will offer (1) IDCEC CEU credit.