Therapeutic Streetscapes: A New Bell Street Designed to Accommodate Those on the Autism Spectrum

Abstract

The rate of children and adults being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is rapidly rising throughout the United States. The CDC now estimates that 1 in 68 children are on the autism spectrum. At the same time cities across the United States are in a period of growth not seen since before World War Two. As more and more people move back to cities we need to consider designing for people with autism, a growing group of urban populations. Current urban design standards and guidelines do not advocate for ASD focused elements. This thesis explores existing ASD guidelines, creating a framework for making public spaces more comfortable for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Using previous studies and best practices information, I combine research regarding ASD architectural guidelines, Therapeutic Garden design, and best practices for Streetscape Design. This project creates a new streetscape typology designed to accommodate those on the autism spectrum. The proposal is located within Belltown a neighborhood in Downtown Seattle. Belltown is the densest neighborhood in Seattle, extremely walkable, great transit and a large number of affordable housing units. The final design of the project includes multiple elements that could be applied to urban design and streetscape designs around the country as a way to consider the ASD population in the creation of our public spaces.