Sinergi
Vol. 30 No. 3 (2026)

Co-designing neuro-inclusive public interiors: a mixed-methods study on non-visible disabilities in Indonesia

Rachmita Maun Harahap (Department of Interior Design, Faculty of Design and Creative Art, Universitas Mercu Buana)
Andjar Widajanti (Department of Architecture and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Mercu Buana)
Mira Zulia Suriastuti (Department of Architecture and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Mercu Buana)



Article Info

Publish Date
08 Sep 2026

Abstract

In Indonesia, inclusive design for people with non-visible disabilities (NVD), such as those who are Deaf, have psychosocial conditions, autism/ADHD, dyslexia, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, and dwarfism, is still underutilized, even though accessibility is an essential part of interior architecture. Through case studies at PT Unilever's office, the Bundaran HI MRT Station, and the Taman Ismail Marzuki Library, selected for their varied public functions relevant to NVD users, this study investigates opportunities and barriers. A mixed-methods approach was used: descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative data from 49 NVD respondents (obtained through multiple-choice and Likert-scale questions); thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative insights from 11 practitioners. The results show that although 66.7% of respondents use public areas almost every day, 58.3% feel uneasy or anxious in them. Confusing layouts, loud noises, a lack of directional signage (61.1%), the absence of quiet areas, excessively bright lighting, fixtures that are not adjustable for individuals with dwarfism, and inadequate priority seating are some of the main stressors. The majority of current practices focus on visible disabilities, ignoring the sensory, cognitive, and social aspects that are essential for NVD inclusion. By emphasizing NVD experiences and offering a practical framework grounded in IDEA principles (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility), this study contributes to the conversation in interior architecture. It also emphasizes the urgency of incorporating NVD considerations into building regulations, design education, and participatory processes, moving beyond mere compliance to meaningful, human-centered inclusivity in public spaces.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

sinergi

Publisher

Subject

Civil Engineering, Building, Construction & Architecture Control & Systems Engineering Electrical & Electronics Engineering Engineering Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering

Description

SINERGI is a peer-reviewed international journal published three times a year in February, June, and October. The journal is published by Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Mercu Buana. Each publication contains articles comprising high quality theoretical and empirical original research papers, ...