My book: Space to Be (2026)

How to make space for yourself

Ibasho is a Japanese word that describes a place where you truly feel at home. A space where you can be yourself and find peace. It's not just about the physical space, but also about a sense of acceptance, connection, and safety.

Influence of the environment on your well-being

Our living and working environments have a significant impact on our well-being. Numerous studies show this. Yet, as an interior designer, I find that designing spaces is often still primarily based on taste and trends.

My point: That's a disservice to people. Especially those whose bodies , sensory systems , or brains require slightly different things. But it applies to everyone, really.

Research

I started researching how things could be improved. My background in accessibility and my own neurodivergent family helped me with this.

I delved into the literature and spoke with numerous experts about their experiences in their communities. Experts supplement my book with their knowledge of topics such as the senses, trauma, physical accessibility, and brain function.

Make your own ibasho

In "Space to Be," I use my Ibasho model to explain which four pillars I believe are crucial if you want to design a space that suits you on all levels.

Expected: first half of 2026

  • The 5 pillars of the Ibasho model

    How do you design a space that truly suits the people who will use it? I developed the Ibasho model for this purpose. Ibasho means: A place where you can be completely yourself: safe and accepted, connected to others. Where you can express your authentic self. The model consists of five pillars, from safety to personality.

  • Theories and research

    The model is based on what we know about how our senses and brains work, and what different bodies need. Key areas of research include sensory processing and research in evolutionary psychology, neurodiversity, physical accessibility, embodied cognition, neuroarchitecture, and biophilic design. I'll also introduce you to theories from the field of interior design.

  • Experiences and tips

    I'm interviewing around 50 people for the book: people with lived experience who face safety or sensory issues in their own homes, and experts in sensory processing, the brain, senses, and interior design. Would you like to participate in an interview for my book as a professional or experienced expert? I'd love it if you'd get in touch!