99% Invisible Autism Pleasantville
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Mar 27, 2024 
Journalist Lauren Ober, diagnosed with autism, discusses her journey and unveiling of 'Autism Pleasantville'—a fantasy world catering to her sensory needs. She explores how design is evolving to accommodate neurodiversity, spotlighting Mesa, Arizona, the first autism-certified city. The conversation includes strategies for creating inclusive spaces, using the High Line in New York to illustrate how thoughtful architecture enhances comfort for autistic individuals. Ober’s insights push for greater awareness and conscious design to support diverse neurological experiences.
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Mesa Inclusion Program
- Mark Garcia, CEO of Visit Mesa, had a negative experience with his autistic son while on vacation.
- This prompted him to start an autism inclusion program in Mesa.
Mesa, Certified Autism City
- Mesa, Arizona, became the world's first autism-certified city through training and accommodating businesses.
- Accessibility caters to the autistic community's spending power.
Testing in Mesa
- Lauren Ober and Thomas Kaufman tested Mesa's autism-friendly spaces, including a cafe and art center.
- The art center's designated "escape space" was just the accessible bathroom.