Ethos
We are committed to sensitivity to the fullest meaning of the word, from sustainable material selection to the finish that meets the skin.
Who we are
We are a multidisciplinary design firm. We serve the highly sensitive and neurodivergent community, supported by a team of experts in psychology, therapy, holistic medicine, and special education.
Pathos
Our processes begin with understanding and accepting the unique neuro-psycho profile of our clients, and end in tangible objects to wear, use, and space to live in.
We believe our products and services significantly improve our clients' quality of life by:
- Accommodating sensory needs
- Facilitating social acceptance
- Celebrating individual differences
Shell Li, AIA
Founder and CEO
Shell is a licensed architect, educator, multidisciplinary designer, and neurodivergent mom dedicated to creating healthy, nurturing environments for all.
Her passion for inclusive design is deeply personal. Raising a son on the autism spectrum gave Shell profound insight into how the built environment can support learning, regulation, and well-being. Through thoughtful, human-centered design, she aims to transform spaces into places that are both functional and inspiring.
Shell earned her B.A. in Architecture from the University of California, Berkeley and her Master of Architecture from the University of Kentucky. Her academic career includes managing and teaching in the Syracuse University NYC Architecture Program and serving as a guest architectural critic at Parsons School of Design and Pratt Institute.
Since her son's diagnosis, Shell has immersed herself in early childhood and special education, becoming a passionate advocate and innovator in neuroinclusive design.
- Licensed Architect, AIA
- B.A. Architecture, UC Berkeley
- M.Arch, University of Kentucky
- Guest Critic, Parsons School of Design
- Guest Critic, Pratt Institute
- Managed and taught, Syracuse University NYC Architecture Program
Six disciplines. One room that finally holds you.
Every design begins with a person's individual sensory profile: how light filters through a window, how a surface feels underfoot, how a room sounds when it's occupied.
Our approachArchitecture
Shell Li, AIA leads every project: plan, section, finish selection, engineer coordination, and the construction that follows.
Psychology
Psychologists who specialize in sensory processing create the profile before a single wall moves.
Occupational and behavioral therapy
Therapists translate regulation, routine, and transition into the way rooms connect.
DIRFloortime® Expert
Early childhood development specialist with expertise in supporting children with special needs.
Holistic medicine
Practitioners who think about sleep, light, and circadian rhythm shape the hours a home keeps.
Special education
Special education teachers and PDA-informed advisors keep children, and their choices, in the room.
Meet the studio in person.
A first conversation with Shell Li, AIA is how every project begins.