Interior Architecture is the practice of sensitively and innovatively redesigning an existing space, while obtaining its inclusive value. Last November, a post on the Botley, Oxford Facebook page initiated the beginning of our project. In order to boost foot traffic to the stores in West Way, the new neighbourhood shopping centre, the parish council in the area launched an advertising campaign called "Buy it in Botley." Inspired by this initiative, the challenge emerged for second year Interior Architecture students to propose alternative designs for one of three units at the site, Acacia Charity Shop, Missing Bean Cafe and The Fishtail Restaurant.

In this modern world sensory development issues are becoming more commonly talked about but how well are these issues addressed?

My proposal for Acacia's new charity shop unit puts the community back at the heart of the local shopping centre, while keeping commercial concerns in mind. Dedicated to supporting children with sensorial issues, the shop serves as more than just a retail opportunity, where every purchase supports understanding and empathy for sensory needs. Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a condition where the brain has difficulty processing information received through the senses, leading to challenges in regulating emotions and behaviour. 5% of children living in Oxford are impacted in various aspects of everyday life including social interactions, learning and participation in activities.

Acacia's current charity funds children’s education in Kenya and Uganda, improving their way of living and lifetime opportunities. My design aims to embrace a similar issue locally, in helping the younger generation in and surrounding Botley schools and nursery’s to develop sensorial skills and gain functional independence. Throughout spatial planning, sensory friendly materials and interactive elements, such as soft diffused lighting and gentle music, my proposal provides a safe and stimulating space where children can learn and its architecture becomes a catalyst for positive change within Botley’s community. Children and volunteers who attend creative evenings, held in the charity shop will repurpose unsold donations (which have been occupied in the shop over two weeks) this interactive stimulating process addresses a social and functionally sustainable agenda, ensuring a practical therapy and physical solution that can be kept or donated to schools. Additionally baby sensory classes and sensorial assessments will take place in the designated private space (sensory room), designed for trigger friendly sensitivities and to cut distractions from the hustle of the surrounding public realm. At the heart of the space a captivating feature: a tunnel that's seamlessly integrated into the walls, stimulates visual engagement that beckons for exploration and adventure.

The continuation of glass throughout the facade compliments Botley’s north east solar orientation, optimising natural daylighting. Its organic furnitecture implemented as a transformative force, draws attention to the shops agenda. Traditional seating and shelving transcend their conventional roles with the ability to manipulate and interact with shadowing that serves as a stimulating interface between the interior and the exterior.