DBL Ceramics, guided by its belief in “Designed for Life”, has introduced a new inclusive design guideline to help create better environments and products for children with autism.

The company notes that around 68.1 million children worldwide are living with autism, yet their homes, schools, and other spaces often fail to consider their unique needs.

To bridge this gap, DBL Ceramics conducted six months of extensive research to better understand children’s preferences regarding shapes, colours, and textures. Based on these insights, the company developed a comprehensive guideline and created what it claims is the world’s first autism-friendly tile collection, ‘NeuroTiles’.

The research revealed that children tend to feel more at ease with soft, calming colours, matte finishes, simple shapes, and consistent patterns. These design elements are believed to promote focus, reduce restlessness, and assist in emotional regulation.

The study was carried out in collaboration with doctors, psychologists, teachers, designers, and experts from Kalyani Inclusive School, the National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital, and Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital.

DBL Ceramics is encouraging more people to get involved in this initiative. For that reason, the guideline has been made open-source and is available for free download on the NeuroTiles website.

The company emphasises its belief that the right combination of colours and patterns can transform the environment for children with autism.

“If even one child with autism feels comfortable in their own room for the first time, then this effort will be truly worthwhile,” said Mohammad Bayazed Bashar, Chief Business Officer at DBL Ceramics.