Project overview
Project Type: Sensory Environment
Location: Watford, United Kingdom
Client: Watford Football Club
Sector: Sports & Entertainment
Primary Users: Supporters with sensory sensitivities and neurodivergent visitors
Introduction
Football stadiums can be exciting and memorable environments, but they can also present significant sensory challenges. Large crowds, loud noise, bright lighting and fast-paced activity can be overwhelming for some supporters.
Watford Football Club recognised the importance of creating a more inclusive matchday experience and introduced a dedicated sensory space within the stadium to support fans who benefit from a calmer environment.
The project forms part of the club’s wider commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
The challenge
Matchdays at football stadiums involve thousands of supporters, high energy atmospheres and constant activity. While this creates an exciting experience for many fans, it can be overwhelming for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
Watford FC wanted to ensure that supporters who might otherwise struggle with the matchday environment could still enjoy attending games.
The challenge was to design a dedicated sensory environment within the stadium that would provide a calm space while still allowing visitors to remain connected to the matchday experience.
Client perspective
"We are so delighted that the Watford FC sensory room is now a reality. We have been incredibly impressed by the club's receptiveness and dedication in ensuring these facilities have been made available. The sensory room will make a huge difference to Theo and we look forward to coming along to more matches."
Andrew, Watford Football Club supporter
The Experia design approach
Experia worked with the club to design a sensory environment that would support sensory regulation while remaining appropriate for a busy stadium setting.
The design focused on creating a calm atmosphere that contrasts with the surrounding stadium environment. Lighting, visual elements and seating were carefully selected to provide a comfortable and relaxing space.
Key considerations included:
• creating a calm environment within a high-energy venue
• incorporating visual sensory features that encourage relaxation
• ensuring the space remains easy to supervise and manage
• designing an environment suitable for visitors of different ages
The result is a sensory environment that supports both relaxation and accessibility.
Key sensory features
The sensory space includes a range of elements designed to create a calming environment.
Features include:
• bubble tube lighting providing gentle visual stimulation
• fibre optic lighting offering soothing colour changes
• comfortable soft seating areas for relaxation
• interactive sensory equipment encouraging engagement
Together these elements help create a space where visitors can regulate sensory input during events.
Before and after transformation
Prior to the installation, there was no dedicated space within the stadium where supporters could take a break from the intensity of the matchday environment.
The new sensory space provides a calm area where visitors can step away from the noise and activity while still remaining part of the stadium experience.
The transformation demonstrates how sensory environments can enhance accessibility in large public venues.
How the space is used
Supporters and families use the sensory environment as a place to relax during matches or before returning to the main seating areas.
The space allows visitors to regulate sensory input and take a break from the busy stadium atmosphere.
By providing this environment, Watford FC has created a more inclusive experience for supporters who benefit from sensory support.
The outcome
The sensory environment has helped Watford Football Club make matchdays more accessible for a wider range of supporters.
Families and individuals who may previously have found attending matches challenging are now able to enjoy the stadium environment with greater confidence.
The project demonstrates how sensory environments can support accessibility within large public venues.
Experia perspective
“Introducing sensory environments into stadiums is an important step in making major sporting venues more accessible. These spaces allow supporters who benefit from sensory support to enjoy the matchday experience in a comfortable and inclusive environment.”
Gareth Jones, Founder and CEO, Experia
"Watford FC prides itself on having a proud family tradition and the sensory room is an important part in ensuring that our supporters have access to the latest facilities. The reaction from those using the room has been overwhelmingly positive and we’ve had numerous requests and bookings for games across the rest of the season."
Dave Messenger, Watford FC Supporter Liaison Officer
Planning a sensory environment?
Experia designs and installs sensory environments for schools, healthcare organisations and public venues around the world.
If you are planning a sensory environment and would like expert advice, our team would be happy to help.
or
What Is a Sensory Room
Sensory Room Design Guide
Sensory Room Equipment Guide
Sensory Room Planning Guide
Sensory Room Cost Guide
Related projects
Sector
Sports & Entertainment
Accessible Stadium Environments
Public Venue Accessibility