‘calming and restorative’ space in PDX

New sensory room offers ‘calming and restorative’ space in PDX

The new sensory room in PDX was designed with people who have autism and disabilities in mind

by: Amanda ArdenPosted: Jan 27, 2022 / 05:28 PM PST / Updated: Jan 27, 2022 / 05:28 PM PST

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – With bright fluorescent lights, loud announcements and crowds of people bustling from one gate to another, the airport can be a bit of a sensory overload for some people. Portland International Airport hopes a newly opened space in one of its concourses will be a nice escape for some people.

On Wednesday, Portland International Airport opened its first sensory room. The room is located in Concourse D and is filled with lights, artwork, textured walls and puzzles – all meant to ease sensory overload or stimulate the senses in a nice way.

“We worked collaboratively with both Kulture City and the Autism Society of Oregon to outfit the room in a way that’s meaningful for folks who will find it calming and restorative,” said Kama Simonds, spokesperson for Portland International Airport.