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From Home Furnishing Business
Mantra IF Announces Role of Solid Wood Furniture in Neurodiverse World
January 23,
2025 by Karen Parrish in Business Strategy, Industry 
Mantra Inspired Furniture (Mantra IF), a leading commercial furniture manufacturing and design company based in Norfolk, Virginia, announces the release of 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 a groundbreaking 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 20 years of design experience and personal understanding as a parent of an autistic child, the white paper advocates for 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 mantrainspiredfurniture.com/naturalharmony.