Conference Program

This panel explores the intersection of neurodiversity and urban design, moving beyond traditional accessibility toward the innovative concept of the "Autistic City." Drawing on the framework of "Neurotribes" and the emerging "Neurosphere," the session examines how urban environments can be reimagined to accommodate diverse sensory profiles and cognitive patterns. Modern cities are predominantly designed for "neurotypical" standards, often resulting in sensory overload, unpredictable environments, and rigid social expectations that marginalize neurodivergent individuals.
This panel argues that integrating neurodivergent culture into urban planning—focusing on sensory regulation, "soft" social interfaces, and predictable spatial hierarchies—does not merely benefit autistic citizens but creates a more livable, resilient city for all. We will discuss how the "Neurosphere" acts as both a digital and physical layer of support, fostering community agency and radical inclusion. By shifting the paradigm from "pathology" to "human variation," we aim to define new interdisciplinary guidelines for the "Right to the City." Key topics include the creation of urban decompression zones, the reduction of sensory friction in public infrastructure, and the role of inclusive housing. The panel brings together urban planners, sociologists, and advocates to foster a dialogue that celebrates cognitive plurality as a cornerstone of future sustainable cities.