Evidence-Based Sensory Architecture Applied to the Design of Therapeutic Centers for Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Sensory Architecture has been recognized as a relevant factor in the emotional experience of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD); however, a persistent gap remains in the systematic incorporation of empirical evidence into the architectural design process, particularly in Latin American urban contexts. Within this framework, the present study analyzed the relationship between Sensory Architecture and Emotional Well-Being in children and adolescents with ASD attending therapeutic centers in the district of San Juan de Lurigancho, Lima, with the aim of translating empirical findings into evidence-based architectural design criteria. A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional, and correlational approach was adopted. The unit of analysis consisted of children and adolescents with ASD, whose emotional experience was assessed through proxy informants, specifically family members. The sample comprised 100 family informants selected using non-probabilistic convenience sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire consisting of 25 items measured on a five-point Likert scale, which demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.93). As the data did not follow a normal distribution (Kolmogorov–Smirnov, p < 0.05), Spearman’s Rho coefficient was applied. The results revealed positive and statistically significant associations between the dimensions of Sensory Architecture and Emotional Well-Being, with Spatial Configuration emerging as the dimension with the strongest associative weight (ρ = 0.652; p < 0.001). Based on this empirical hierarchy, an evidence-based architectural design proposal for a therapeutic center was developed. Study limitations include the cross-sectional design and the absence of post-occupancy evaluation, which point to future research directions focused on longitudinal studies and empirical validation of architectural performance.