quietroom

A quiet room is a designated space within a building designed to provide a calm, distraction-free environment that helps reduce stress and sensory overload. Quiet rooms are installed in various settings, including workplaces, schools, libraries, hospitals, and public facilities. They are intended as a short-term retreat to decompress and refocus, and are not medical treatment spaces or therapy rooms.

Design and features typically include sound-absorbing materials, carpeting or cushioned floors, and acoustical ceiling treatments to minimize external noise. Lighting is soft and controllable, with minimal visual stimuli. Furnishings emphasize comfort and simplicity, such as beanbags, lounge chairs, or low tables. Some rooms offer sensory tools like weighted blankets, fidget items, and gently tolerable textures, along with timers or calming audio options.

Access and use are usually voluntary and time-limited. Some institutions require booking, while others maintain open access during certain hours. Users may stay for short periods to decompress, practice breathing or grounding techniques, or prepare for a challenging meeting or exam. Staff guidance often focuses on privacy, respect, and consent, and the space is intended for personal relief rather than punishment or surveillance.

Considerations and critique include variability in effectiveness, based on individual needs and the quality of design. Critics caution that quiet rooms can stigmatize certain users or be misused as a substitute for addressing broader issues. Inclusive design emphasizes accessibility for people with disabilities, clear signage, cultural sensitivity, and appropriate supervision where necessary, especially for children.

Variants of the concept include sensory rooms or calm rooms that blend low-stimulation environments with interactive elements. Terminology and features vary by country and institution.