Designing for Belonging: How Zero Gravity Design Is Shaping the Future of Inclusive Interiors

At Zero Gravity Design, we’re more than just an interior design studio in Manchester, we’re a creative collective reshaping what it means to belong in a space. Our approach to workplace interiors is underpinned by one clear philosophy: design should never exclude people. 

That’s why we embed DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) into every project we undertake, not as an afterthought, but as a fundamental principle.

From “Average” to Authentic: How Real Inclusion Shapes Experiences

In a recent interview for Material Source’s 30 Views on DEIB in the built environment, our founder and creative director, Ashley Salmon, offered a bold perspective:

“At Zero Gravity Design, we see EDI as the biggest missed opportunity in the built environment. Too often, workplaces are designed for the “average” user, yet 20% of people are excluded by traditional design thinking.

Equity means removing barriers before they’re built. Inclusion means designing spaces that amplify all voices; neurodiverse, culturally diverse, and beyond. And belonging? That’s when people walk in and feel it was made for them. EDI isn’t an add-on; it’s the future of design and it will define the workplaces that succeed.”

This insight defines how we operate. We don’t believe in templated environments or cookie-cutter floorplans. Every space we create is crafted with intent, built from conversations, lived experiences, and a commitment to inclusive workplace design that ensures every individual feels seen, heard and respected within their environment.

Belonging in Action: Making Inclusion Visible & Meaningful

‘Belonging’ may seem like a soft word, but its impact is anything but. At Zero Gravity Design, our interiors reflect this. We tailor workplace environments that adapt to diverse work styles: whether that means quiet, stimulation-reduced areas for neurodiverse employees, prayer rooms for religious observance, or fully accessible design for all physical needs.

Our spatial solutions go beyond compliance and aesthetic appeal. We embrace cultural nuances, champion flexible zoning, and design with sensory inclusivity in mind. From lighting to acoustics, furniture to flooring, every element has the potential for inclusion. 

DEIB is Essential, Not Optional: Why It’s a Business Priority

Studies such as those from McKinsey show what we’ve long understood; inclusivity isn’t just good ethics; it’s good business. With a 30% increase in productivity and a 40% higher likelihood of outperforming peers in profitability reported among companies with high diversity in leadership, DEIB clearly impacts performance.

But the human aspect is just as powerful. A sense of belonging, as author Simon Sinek articulates in Leaders Eat Last, leads to “trust, cooperation and problem solving.” When teams feel safe and valued, they collaborate more effectively, innovate more freely, and stay longer. That’s the culture our designs help to foster.

Interior Design, Manchester: Tailored Spaces With Purpose

As a leading interior design studio in Manchester, we specialise in workplace transformations that combine style, function and humanity. Our services include:

Workplace Strategy & Consultancy: Aligning Space With Business Vision

We work closely with stakeholders to understand not just the physical requirements of a space, but the emotional and cultural dynamics of the team. This consultative approach ensures that the final inclusive workplace design aligns with organisational values, workflows, and DEIB priorities.

Interior Architecture & Planning: Smart Layouts, Seamless Function

From high-rise offices to collaborative co-working spaces, we rethink layouts to promote productivity, wellbeing, and inclusivity. We ensure optimum use of space, natural light, circulation routes and zoning for different work modes; from collaboration to quiet concentration.

Concept & Visualisation: Bringing Ideas to Life, Visually

Our designs start with bold ideas grounded in insight. Through mood boards, 3D renderings and visual walkthroughs, we help clients picture a new environment where every team member feels at home.

FF&E: Spec & Procurement: Curated Details, Expertly Delivered

We curate every detail in the interiors we design; from ergonomic furniture to sustainable materials and ambient lighting; with care. Our FF&E decisions balance aesthetics with performance and inclusivity, ensuring every piece contributes to a welcoming environment.

Project Management: From Vision to Completion

Design is only half the story. We manage every stage of implementation to ensure our vision is realised on time, on budget, and without compromise. Our project management approach is collaborative, transparent and responsive.

Designing for Neurodiversity: Celebrating Unique Minds in the Workplace

Neurodiverse individuals often experience the built environment differently. Fluorescent lights, background noise, and busy visual patterns can be overwhelming. Our designs incorporate acoustic panels, biophilic elements, adjustable lighting and clear wayfinding to accommodate a wide spectrum of sensory needs.

We’re also conscious of cultural identities and how these influence space usage. From quiet prayer spaces to gender-neutral restrooms and communal kitchens that reflect diverse eating habits, we take a nuanced, research-driven approach.

Workplaces for Tomorrow: Future-Proofing Through Inclusion

The post-pandemic shift to hybrid work has shown us that physical offices must now do more than just provide a desk. They must connect, inspire, and support employees holistically. That’s why our interior design work in Manchester focuses on the emotional experience of a space, ensuring that when people walk into one of our interiors, they feel: this is for me.

Whether it’s a global tech brand or a local startup, our goal remains the same: to create workspaces that reflect the full spectrum of human diversity, empower authentic expression, and drive better business outcomes.

Let’s Build Belonging: Designing Spaces Where Everyone Thrives

Inclusion isn’t a checklist,  it’s a mindset. At Zero Gravity Design, we’re committed to helping businesses see beyond averages and start designing for everyone. It’s time to raise the bar for the built environment and make spaces that not only welcome people, but celebrate them.

If you're looking to reimagine your workspace with DEIB at the heart, speak to our team today. Let’s build something that truly reflects your people and gives them a place where they belong.