In the bustling heart of South Delhi, a groundbreaking project is redefining how therapeutic spaces for children are conceived. The Centre for Child and Adolescent Wellbeing (CCAW), a 2,500 sq. ft. basement-level clinic, is a pioneering example of emotionally responsive, inclusive, and sustainable architecture — designed by the talented team at NGA INKIN, led by Architects Neten and Ritika.
More than just a clinic, CCAW is a sensitive and immersive healing environment for children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental, emotional, and behavioural challenges. Departing from sterile clinical templates, the space is guided by the internationally recognized “Six Feeling Framework” for autism design—feel connected, free, clear, private, safe, and calm—an approach that shaped every sensory and spatial choice.
The design process was deeply collaborative, involving architects, psychologists, caregivers, and children. Rather than isolating or overstimulating, as many conventional clinical settings do, CCAW’s design supports sensory regulation and encourages agency, independence, and joy.
At its core is the “Tree of Celebration”, a symbolic element of belonging and pride, alongside the “Green Caves,” tactile panels, curving furniture, number-coded zones, and a calming “blue sensory walk”—each element aimed at reducing anxiety and supporting neurodiverse users. Walls are softly curved, furniture is built-in with rounded edges, and intuitive visual cues are strategically embedded into the spatial design to foster easy navigation and emotional safety
The clinic was designed to overcome complex environmental and spatial limitations typically associated with below-ground structures. One of the primary concerns—rainwater ingress—was effectively mitigated through the implementation of an elevated false floor and false wall. This architectural intervention was complemented by a custom-engineered, self-cleaning drainage mechanism featuring an automated pump, ensuring efficient water management and safeguarding the space during heavy monsoon conditions.
Despite the compact size, the architects managed to create an expansive feel through clear spatial zoning, flexibility, and visual sequencing—a critical need for children with autism, ADHD, and sensory sensitivities. The layout facilitates effortless movement, predictability, and comfort for all users.
The interiors are zoned with acoustically treated cavity walls filled with mineral wool, vinyl flooring, and custom acoustic panels, ensuring privacy and minimal noise interference across therapy zones. Transparency is balanced with sound control, allowing supervision without intrusion.
Safety was paramount: fire-retardant waterproof partitions, low-VOC paints, tactile surfaces, and durable, customized on site curated furniture were employed to enhance both resilience and well-being. Every detail—from seamless curves to built-in storage—was designed with children’s physical and emotional safety in mind.
Sustainability wasn’t an afterthought—it was embedded into the project DNA. A key material choice was Wood Plastic Composite (WPC), made from recycled wood fibres and plastics. WPC’s low energy footprint, long life, and minimal maintenance significantly reduced the project’s embodied carbon.
Showcasing a thoughtful approach to sustainable healthcare design, the architect opted for fully customized, on-site fabricated furniture over modular alternatives. Paired with low-VOC paints and durable acoustic partitions, these choices reflect a clear commitment to low-impact, long-lasting design solutions.
With CCAW, Arch. Neten and Arch. Ritika of NGA Inkin has delivered more than just a clinic—they’ve created a child-centric, psychologically informed, and emotionally safe sanctuary. By merging architecture with neuroscience and behavioural psychology, they present a replicable blueprint for inclusive healthcare environments, where design becomes an active participant in healing.
In a country with growing awareness of neurodiversity, CCAW is not just timely—it’s visionary.
Fact Sheet:
Project Name: Centre for Child and Adolescent Wellbeing (CCAW)
Location: South Delhi, India
Area: 2,500 sq. ft. (Sub Zero Level)
Design Firm: NGA Inkin (N Goyal Assocates Inkin Pvt Ltd)
Principal Architects: Arch. Neten & Arch. Ritika
Design Team: Ar. Vivek, Ar. Vedaant, Ar. Samiksha, Dilbaag, Bharat.
Photo Credit: Ranjan Sharma – Light Zone India
