Kirsty Barlow – Participant

Barlow is an award-winning immersive environment designer who explores the transformative power of immersive experiences through her work in theatre, festivals, and live events.

The BEYOND Conference Quiet Space is a collaborative design by Barlow and Sara Wolff. Their shared vision is to create spaces that promote sensory calm and inclusion through thoughtful design and sound – reducing overwhelm for individuals who identify as neurodiverse.

This installation takes inspiration from Platt Fields Market Garden, a community hub and working market garden located in Platt Fields Park, Fallowfield. The fabric banners reflect the soft tones and textures of the garden’s flowers, while the accompanying binaural soundscape features field recordings captured within the garden itself, creates an immersive sensory experience.

The installation encourages reflection on how thoughtfully designed environments can support well-being, sensory calm and a sense of community.

https://www.instagram.com/kirstybarlow__design/

This project is supported by the Place Partnership Fund, through Arts Council England and The National Lottery, in partnership with Salford City Council, University of Salford and GM Arts: Better Connected.