Synesthetic Research & Design Lab

​At the end of the art residence's six-month performance period, a research document and an exhibition were developed.

 

Key Findings of the Research​​

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Urban Design

• Evaluation: Cities received a low average score of 1.6/10 for their design in accommodating HSP needs.

• Challenges:

  • Excessive noise in public spaces (e.g., streets, malls, megaphones).

  • Light pollution and inadequate lighting in urban areas.

  • Lack of green spaces and pedestrian-friendly areas.

  • Poor public transportation and traffic congestion.

  • Overcrowding due to mass tourism.

  • Neglect of HSP needs in urban planning.

  • Dirty urban environments and lack of aesthetic harmony.

• Positive Spaces:

  • Natural and relaxing areas such as river walks, green zones, parks, beaches, and forests.

  • Urban spaces with tranquility and accessibility, such as train stations and well-maintained parks.

  • Cultural and social spaces like museums, temples, and theaters.

• Recommendations:

  • Short-term: Reduce noise, improve lighting, create green spaces, adapt commercial areas, and maintain cleanliness.

  • Long-term: Restructure urban design to prioritize people over cars, create adapted parks, develop rural zones, improve public transport, and promote tranquil cultural spaces.

​

Hospitals​

• Evaluation: Hospitals scored 1.7/10 for their design in meeting HSP needs.

• Challenges:

  • Long waiting times and overcrowded spaces.

  • Uncomfortable furniture and cold, impersonal designs.

  • Excessive noise, unpleasant odors, and lack of natural light.

  • Overstimulation due to bright lights and loud sounds.

  • Poor ventilation and electromagnetic pollution.

• Positive Spaces:

  • Modern, well-lit areas with natural light.

  • Pediatric zones with cheerful decorations.

  • Quiet spaces like chapels and small waiting rooms with natural light.

• Recommendations:

  • Short-term: Increase natural lighting, create quiet zones, reduce noise and stimuli, improve furniture comfort, and organize common areas.

  • Long-term: Renovate old buildings, provide private rooms, improve ventilation systems, and design spaces specifically for HSP.

​

Housing​

• Evaluation: Housing received a moderate score of 5.0/10 for its suitability for HSP.

• Challenges:

  • Lack of consideration for HSP during design or renovation.

  • Noise from neighbors and traffic.

  • Limited natural light and poor ventilation.

  • Restrictions in rental properties preventing customization.

  • Stressful environments due to outdated furniture and poor design.

• Positive Features:

  • Homes with natural light, quiet surroundings, and harmonious decoration.

  • Outdoor spaces like gardens and patios for relaxation.

  • Minimalist and organized interiors with warm colors.

• Recommendations:

  • Short-term: Improve lighting, reduce noise, create relaxation spaces, optimize ventilation, and simplify decoration.

  • Long-term: Reform homes to maximize natural light, incorporate acoustic insulation, create outdoor spaces, and prioritize tranquil locations.

​

Art​

• Evaluation: Art was highly valued, with an average score of 8.2/10 for its ability to help HSP integrate and thrive.

• Benefits:

  • Facilitates emotional connection and expression.

  • Provides therapeutic and healing effects.

  • Stimulates creativity and positive brain activity.

  • Serves as a natural space for HSPs to express their sensitivity.

• Common Practices:

  • Visits to museums, theaters, and cultural spaces.

  • Incorporation of artistic decorations like paintings, plants, and candles.

  • Participation in creative activities such as writing, painting, music, and dance.

  • Use of nature as inspiration and relaxation.

• Recommendations:

  • Short-term: Encourage artistic activities, cultural visits, and nature-based relaxation.

  • Long-term: Promote artistic professions, integrate art into mental health programs, and create artistic communities.

​

Technology​

• Evaluation: Technology was rated 7.4/10 for its potential to help HSP integrate, though concerns about its negative impact were noted.

• Benefits:

  • Tools for organization, stress management, and communication.

  • Technologies for regulating light, noise, and environmental factors.

  • Devices like noise-canceling headphones and light-adjusting systems.

• Challenges:

  • Stress caused by excessive use of technology.

  • Overexposure to electromagnetic waves.

• Recommendations:

  • Short-term: Use noise-canceling headphones, light regulation systems, and organizational apps.

  • Long-term: Develop HSP-specific technologies, such as radiation inhibitors and sensory adjustment systems.

 

Events and Conversations

Between May and June 2025, Severino Alfonso conducted three talks in León, Santiago de Compostela, and Barcelona, with 51 attendees. The events were organized in collaboration with local HSP associations and coordinated by FundesPAS. Key discussions included:

• The importance of adapting spaces for HSP, considering light, sound, and environmental factors.

• Interdisciplinary collaboration in architectural design to address diverse sensitivities.

• The role of art and technology in improving sensory experiences.

• Personal anecdotes highlighting the challenges HSPs face in hospitals, schools, and public spaces.

 

Propositions for Improvement

The document proposes several strategies to enhance the quality of life for HSP:

• Evaluation Processes: Develop tools to assess the suitability of spaces for HSP.

• Education: Train professionals in sensory design and raise awareness about HSP needs.

• Hospital Protocols: Revise access protocols and implement practical measures to improve hospital environments.

• Public Building Checklist: Create a checklist for designing HSP-friendly public spaces.

• Collaboration with Design Companies: Redesign architectural software to include HSP-specific criteria.

• Product Design Partnerships: Work with companies to create HSP-friendly architectural products.

• Legislation: Advocate for laws that mandate HSP-friendly construction standards.

• Addressing SQM and EHS: Develop solutions for chemical sensitivity and electromagnetic hypersensitivity.

 

Conclusion

"Ecos de Luz" highlights the challenges HSP faces in urban, hospital, and residential environments, emphasizing the need for inclusive design. Art and technology are identified as powerful tools for improving HSP integration and well-being, provided they are tailored to their unique needs. The document offers actionable recommendations for short- and long-term improvements, aiming to create a more inclusive and supportive world for highly sensitive individuals.