Landside Sensory Room at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

The space is themed around a tranquil New Jersey riverbank, with trellis-supported “trees” and suspended acoustic baffles forming a soft canopy that reduces light levels and creates a calming atmosphere. Illuminated cloud fixtures provide gentle ambient lighting, while vertical bubble tubes, interactive wall elements, and saltwater fish tanks invite exploration and engagement.

Seating options accommodate both children and adults, including soft sensory bean bags and pebble-shaped benches arranged along a winding “river” path. A backlit Himalayan salt feature wall adds warmth, while a glazed entry wall with bubble graphics separates the room from the activity of the terminal, offering travelers a peaceful retreat.

The sensory room was developed with guidance from the Anderson Center for Autism, whose expertise shaped design strategies and staff training to promote accessibility and support neurodivergent passengers throughout their journey.