Birmingham-based nonprofit KultureCity recently unveiled three new sensory rooms in the Magic City—two at the BJCC and one at Protective Stadium. Keep reading to learn more about these rooms and why they matter.

Check out KultureCity’s new sensory rooms

sensory room symbol — Look for this symbol to find KultureCity’s room. (Summer Guffey / Bham Now)

Not familiar with KultureCity? This Birmingham-based nonprofit was started by Julian Maha and aims to create a world more inclusive to those with sensory needs, such as Julian’s own son with Autism. With KultureCity, Julian has helped to create safe + relaxing spaces for his son and others with similar needs.

You may be surprised to learn that one in six people have sensory needs, for a variety of reasons including Autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, Cystic Fibrosis, veterans with PTSD and people with dementia. KultureCity aims to create safe spaces for people to decompress from overwhelming sounds and crowds.

Kulture City has made their impact in over 900 spaces in five countries. Check out some of their exciting work in the Magic City and around our state:

This room welcomes all

fidget light — Have you seen a more welcoming room? (Summer Guffey / Bham Now)

Now those with sensory needs can enjoy the experience of a concert, a UAB game, and even a Squadron match with those they love. No longer will these events be overwhelming, because they will know there’s a safe space for them at the BJCC.

The room features soft lighting, comfy bean bag chairs and puzzles on the wall for engagement. The room is a place where fidgeting is welcomed, no matter who you are.

There will also be sensory bags available. Inside the bag, you’ll find noise-canceling headphones, lanyard cards and fidget toys. Trained staff will also be there to help anyone that’s distressed.

“You can come to an arena, whether its Protective Stadium or Legacy Arena, and be there with your family, to be a part of that celebration. That was something that was not possible before. These are not just sensory rooms, they’re more than that. They represent community, equity and inclusion.”
Michele Kong M.D, co-founder of KultureCity

Looking forward

When The World Games’ crowd filters through this summer, the whole world will see what our city is doing for those with sensory needs. Hopefully, this inspirational room will pioneer and inspire others to be inclusive in their city, wherever they may live.

Where do you want to see a sensory room in Birmingham next? Let us know @bhamnow.