KindRoot Research
Sensory Design Research by KindRoot.
Exploring how kitchens and the design process can better support sensory needs, reduce overwhelm and create calmer everyday experiences.
Why we are doing this
Most kitchens are designed around how they look. We believe they should also be designed around how they feel.
KindRoot was founded by Molly, who has always found kitchens a difficult space — often leading to overwhelm and overstimulation.
After years working in kitchen design, she began to understand how small things can have a big impact: a smelly bin, a cluttered worktop, harsh lighting or too many visual distractions can completely change how a space feels day to day.
This research will help us understand what causes overwhelm, what makes the design process harder, and what kind of support would make renovating feel easier and more human.
If kitchens worked better for people with sensory needs, they’d work better for everyone.
Be part of the research
There are two ways to contribute.
Whether you want to share your personal experience or help expand the reach of this project, your input can help shape better guidance for the future of kitchen design.
Participate
Share your experience to help us understand how kitchens and the design process feel in real life.
Collaborate
Help us expand the reach of this research by sharing it with your audience, network or community.
This is especially valuable for designers, creators, professionals and anyone working with people who may benefit from more inclusive design.
Enquire about collaborating →We gather experiences
Through surveys, conversations and real-life examples, we listen to how kitchens and renovations actually feel.
We identify patterns
Responses are reviewed to understand common stress points, sensory triggers and opportunities for better support.
We shape better tools
The research will inform a Sensory Design Framework and practical tools for homeowners, designers and the wider industry.
Where this is heading
A Sensory Design Framework for calmer, more inclusive homes.
This research will lead to the development of practical, evidence-led guidance for designing spaces around sensory needs.
Alongside this, we are developing My Kitchen Planner — a free app designed to help people navigate renovations with less overwhelm, clearer decisions and more confidence.
Questions, ideas or collaboration enquiries?