Residential Outdoor Environments for Individuals with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)

Severe sensitivity to various environmental chemicals affects an increasing number of people-a condition referred to as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). The responses are both physical and psychological, where avoidance of chemical triggers can lead to social isolation, thereby increasing the level of disability. There is a need for user supportive environments where people with MCS can thrive, both indoors and outdoors. The study resulted in three principles for designing outdoor housing areas: (1) using spatial analysis to create a site layout that minimizes exposure to external and confounding triggers (e.g., noise, visual disturbances); (2) using zoning to clearly delineate private from semi-private areas; and (3) selecting vegetation and materials carefully to avoid triggers. The principles were developed in an iterative process based on existing research combined with a survey involving 58 MCS respondents.