Quiet Space

Ours is a museum to be explored with all the senses, but we know that for some people it can be too overwhelming. That is why we have created Quiet Space: an area with dimmed lights, colours, sounds and smells that allows you to take a break from your visit and relax.

The space is primarily designed for people with autism spectrum disorder, but can be used by anyone who needs a break from intense sensory stimulation.

The project

The sensory room for decompression is inspired by the Snoezelen approach and promotes connection with the inner world of the person through controlled stimulation of the senses. Light effects, colours, sounds, music and aromas are used to promote relaxation, well-being, experiential learning and experimentation with new ways of relating.

The space offers soft seating, dimmable lighting, relaxing installations, fibre optic lights, aromas and various tactile elements. Through the activation of all the senses, people can be at peace or active in accordance with their specific needs.

The Snoezelen approach

It is a therapeutic process based on multi-sensory experiences involving sight, hearing, smell and touch. Stimuli can be amplified and/or funnelled into a single sensory channel, resulting in hyperstimulation.
The term ‘Snoezelen’, of Dutch origin, is a contraction of the Dutch verbs “snuffelen” (to seek and explore) and “doezelen” (to relax). Originally used in the Netherlands for patients with cognitive disorders, Snoezelen therapy is an innovative approach that uses pleasant experiences to create states of well-being that provide relief from psychological and behavioural symptoms.