Design for the Mind:
Xander Cadisch, Light Tribe by Phos Ltd
Virtual
FridayApril 10, 2026
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm ET
Credits LU | Elective TBD
Intermediate
This presentation combines personal insight and professional expertise to explore how neurodivergence and trauma-informed design can revolutionize biophilic lighting. Drawing on my own experience of living with PTSD—alongside research and findings from my book, The Light Within Us—I examine how thoughtful design can profoundly impact emotional health, sensory comfort, and overall wellbeing.
Given that we now spend 90% of our time indoors—equivalent to 37 years by the age of 40—the spaces we design are not just backdrops; they shape our biology. Light, color, surface, and texture affect everything from our mood to our nervous system.
We will discuss PAS 6463:2022 (“Design for the Mind”), exploring practical ways to adapt lighting, color schemes, and materials to better support neurodivergent individuals and those recovering from trauma. By recognizing heightened sensitivities as strengths, this session highlights the vital role neurodivergent designers play in creating deeply nourishing, inclusive spaces for all.
Ideal for architects, designers, and wellness advocates, attendees will walk away with actionable strategies and a deeper understanding of how thoughtful design can nurture healing, inclusivity, and resilience in the built environment.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the biological impact of indoor environments. Learn how design choices—especially light, color, and texture—affect the nervous system, mood, and wellbeing, especially considering we now spend 90% of our lives indoors (equivalent to 37 years by age 40).
- Explore the link between trauma, neurodivergence, and design sensitivity. Understand how PTSD and neurodivergent experiences heighten sensitivity to sensory inputs—and how this awareness can inform more supportive, healing environments.
- Apply PAS 6463:2022 (“Design for the Mind”) in practice. Gain practical tools and approaches to create neuro-inclusive spaces by adapting lighting, materials, and color palettes in line with the latest guidance.
- Recognize the unique value of neurodivergent designers. Learn why neurodivergent perspectives are a vital asset to any design team—bringing instinctive, human-first thinking to the creation of emotionally intelligent, inclusive spaces.
Speaker
Xander Cadisch
Founder
Light Tribe by Phos Ltd
Xander is the founder of Light Tribe by Phos, a visionary organization that collaborates with neuroscientists, designers, and leading research outlets to redefine the role of design in human health and wellbeing. As the Sustainability Director and Chief Technical Officer at Phos Light, he drives the development of groundbreaking biophilic lighting solutions, including some of the world’s most advanced LED luminaires. These innovative products are transforming human performance, health, and wellbeing in the built environment and are integral to many of the globe’s most prestigious health, wellness, and luxury spaces.
Xander also hosts the popular podcast In Light Of It All, which explores the invisible forces that shape our wellbeing, delving into topics such as surface, color, texture, neuroaesthetics, and the neuroscience behind enriching and positive design.
A highly sought-after public speaker and panelist, Xander regularly shares his expertise at international events, speaking alongside the world’s foremost thought leaders. His ability to passionately and clearly articulate complex ideas has established him as a leading voice in the field. He educates master’s students, early-career professionals, government institutes, and the general public through his monthly column in the Journal of Biophilic Design. He aims to inspire a new generation to harness the transformative power of light and organic design.
Xander’s pioneering work has been recognized with prestigious accolades, including the King’s Award for Enterprise and the Forty Under 40 Award. His acclaimed book, The Light Within Us, delves into the neuroscience of light and biophilic design, cementing his reputation as a thought leader and innovator. He has also been featured twice in House & Garden magazine for his contributions to human-centred lighting and design.
As part of the Government and Public Affairs Committee of the Lighting Industry Association (LIA), Xander advises on legislation to ensure UK buildings meet the highest standards of health and sustainability. Through his work, he transforms indoor environments—where humans spend 90% of their time—into spaces that foster wellbeing, productivity, and enhance performance across sectors including healthcare, residential, commercial, hospitality, and office environments.
He has been a panelist at renowned events including the Surface Design Show, Design Soiree, Design Forum, and Recolight panels, and a speaker at events like Light 24 and the One Mind Symposium in Barcelona. Xander also delivers lectures at prestigious institutions including the Oslo Masters University and KLC (Brighton and Sussex).