Whether in a busy shopping centre or a brand-new hospital, Nook is redefining how we think about space. Their signature pods – designed to promote calm, focus and neuroinclusion – are making a visible difference across sectors, supporting both wellbeing and productivity in the environments where people need it most.
Case study: Dorset’s new hospital
At the heart of Dorset’s new hospital, Nook pods have been introduced to create a sense of welcome and comfort from the moment people walk through the door. Styled in vibrant colours inspired by Bournemouth’s beach huts, the pods are more than a design statement – they’re a lifeline in high-pressure environments. Positioned in key areas like libraries, atriums, IT departments and clinical meeting rooms, they support everything from private calls and quiet work to informal catch-ups and moments of respite.
“Even in the main entrance, we’re seeing staff use the pods for one-to-one catch-ups and the public taking a moment to pause or connect,” said Daniel Murray, Programme Manager for Strategy and Transformation. “The feedback has been really positive, and the range of users is impressively broad.”
Case study: Frenchgate shopping centre
This same spirit of accessibility and inclusion is driving the launch of the new Sensory Nook Stop at Frenchgate Shopping Centre in Doncaster. Created in partnership with Ambispace and the charity Autism Plus, the space features six Nook pods tailored for individuals with sensory needs – offering a dedicated environment to relax and self-regulate. Opening on 3 April 2025 to mark Autism Awareness Week, the Nook Stop also offers employment support for neurodivergent individuals through Autism Plus’s on-site team.
David O’Coimin, Founder of Nook, commented: “When Nook was created, the mission was all about bringing neuroinclusivity deeper into society – whether that’s on the High Street, in hospitals or in offices. We’re proud to see Nook pods playing such a valuable and versatile role.”
Certified by the IBCCES as sensory-friendly support spaces for neurodivergent individuals, Nook pods are increasingly being adopted across workplaces, schools, healthcare, and public venues. Their mix of acoustic shielding, ambient lighting, and modular mobility makes them ideal for creating focused micro-environments within open, often overwhelming, spaces.
At The Office Event (7–8 May 2025, ExCeL London), Nook will be showcasing how its pods can be used to elevate workplace wellbeing, inclusion and focus – whether as quiet zones, breakout booths or wellness retreats.
You might also like: