Muirhead, a supplier of leathers to airlines and aircraft seat manufacturers, has developed a concept for ‘neurodiverse-friendly’ seat covers.
With up to 80% of disabled individuals living with a non-visible disability (according to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme and NHS UK), the project, named Sensation, is designed to highlight the importance of seat cover design in fostering an inclusive onboard experience for all travellers.
The Sensation collection is designed to inspire CMF (colour, material and finish) designers with a new approach to addressing common barriers to travel for neurodivergent passengers, including those with neurological or developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, learning impairments, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Muirhead worked closely with VIA, a Scottish disability consultancy, to guide the design process, based on VIA’s extensive research, and its feedback from neurodivergent individuals who have faced particular difficulties when travelling.
The Sensation collection features a soothing monochromatic palette of greens, blues, and neutrals to evoke a calming atmosphere – which Muirhead is keen to point out also highlights the precise colour-matching capabilities of its in-house Colour Team.
Muirhead also applied its advanced digital printing capabilities to the collection, to demonstrate how signage and patterns on leather seat covers could help passengers locate their seats and better process their environment.
Other key features of the Sensation collection include a variety of bespoke leather embosses, highlighting the importance of textures in curating a multi-sensory experience for neurodivergent travellers.
Muirhead says the project also underscores the importance of material choice when creating inclusive seating, as neurodivergent individuals often favour natural materials as they offer a less invasive sensory experience than synthetic alternatives.
Jamie O’Donnell, a designer at Muirhead, said of the collection: “Air travel can be overwhelming for anyone, but especially for neurodivergent individuals, who tend to have heightened sensitivities compared to neurotypical travellers. Seat covers play a vital role in providing them with comfort and a sense of security, enabling them to better regulate their emotions onboard.
“While the industry is making strides towards accessible and inclusive cabin design, many current approaches tend to be overly medicalised or infantilising towards adults with non-visible disabilities. The inclusive cabin of the future must balance functionality with aesthetic appeal.”
Visitors to booth 6E95 at this year’s Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) on 28-30 May in Hamburg can learn more about the Sensation collection in Muirhead’s interactive sensory design studio – which also offers attendees a respite from the bustling show floor.
