Furniture company publishes white paper on solid wood and neurodiversity

Mantra Inspired Furniture's Unity Table

NORFOLK, Va. — Mantra Inspired Furniture,  a commercial furniture manufacturing and design company based in Norfolk, Virginia, has released its latest white paper, "Natural Harmony: Solid Wood's Role in a Neurodiverse World." Authored by Matt Cheadle, creative director at Mantra Inspired Furniture and advocate for neurodiversity, the white paper is an exploration of how solid wood furniture can create more inclusive and supportive environments for neurodiverse individuals.

"As a designer and a dad to an autistic son, I know firsthand how important it is to create spaces that feel safe, comfortable, and intuitive for everyone," said Cheadle. "Natural Harmony isn't just about beautiful, sustainable furniture—it's about designing with empathy and intention. At Mantra Inspired Furniture, we're committed to crafting pieces that bring people together and support the diverse ways we all experience the world."

With insights drawn from over twenty years of design experience and personal understanding as a parent of an autistic child, the white paper advocates for the thoughtful incorporation of solid wood furniture in spaces to support various neurological needs. It emphasizes the importance of understanding neurodiversity, including conditions such as autism and dementia, and how natural materials can positively impact individual well-being and comfort.

The white paper outlines several key aspects of solid wood's role in neurodiverse spaces:

  • Creating calming environments through natural finishes and materials.
  • Reducing visual overload with subtle hues and organic patterns.
  • Enhancing focus and concentration through stable, centered environments.
  • Supporting sensory needs with predictable, familiar surfaces.
  • Building connections to nature through biophilic design principles.
  • Fostering creativity and collaboration with warm, welcoming spaces.

Through compelling research and case studies, the report illustrates how thoughtful furniture selection can improve any space by providing environments that are more flexible, comfortable, and meaningful for all users. The paper also shares insights from environmental psychologists and neurodiversity experts, including Dr. Sally Augustin and Temple Grandin.

The white paper is part of Mantra Inspired Furniture's broader commitment to inclusive design and accessibility as well as sustainable, American-made products that prioritize both environmental responsibility and user well-being.

The white paper is available for download at naturalharmony

.

Have something to say? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

Profile picture for user dakotasmith
About the author
Dakota Smith | Editorial Intern

Dakota Smith is an undergraduate student at New Jersey City University studying English and Creative Writing. He is a writer at heart, and a cook by trade. His career goal is to become an author. At Woodworking Network, Dakota is an editorial intern, ready to dive into the world of woods and words.