In line with its mission to create a mall for all, SM Supermalls, through its corporate social responsibility arm SM Cares, will soon open the first-ever SM Sensory Lab at SM Mall of Asia. This dedicated space is designed to provide a calm and comfortable environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing disorder (SPD), and anxiety disorder.
The SM Sensory Lab: Calming Corner is part of SM Cares’ advocacy for Persons with Disabilities, taking the next major steps to making every mall visit welcoming, inclusive, and compassionate. The space aims to offer visitors a moment of rest from overstimulating environments and ensure that every Filipino can enjoy a great malling experience.
Partners unite to bring the SM Sensory Lab to life — creating inclusive spaces that empower persons with special needs and enrich the community.
The SM Sensory Lab supports the unique needs of individuals with sensory sensitivities — fostering comfort and meaningful engagement in public spaces.
Developed in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), and the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), this initiative reflects SM’s leadership in promoting accessibility and empathy across its malls.
“The SM Sensory Lab represents our vision of inclusivity and care,” said Mr. Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “Through this calming space, we hope to create an environment where every visitor—especially those with sensory sensitivities—feels safe, supported, and truly welcome.”
Creating a Calming Experience for All
The SM Sensory Lab features a thoughtfully designed environment aimed at reducing sensory overload and providing comfort for individuals with sensory sensitivities. The space is equipped with soft lighting to minimize visual overstimulation and a quiet atmosphere to help reduce auditory triggers. Visitors can relax in comfortable seating areas furnished with soft chairs and cushions, while sensory tools such as calming toys and blankets offer tactile comfort.
Admission to the Sensory Lab is free of charge and open to children and adults with sensory sensitivities, accompanied by a guardian or caregiver. To support ease of navigation and emotional regulation, the space also includes visual supports and schedules to help visitors feel more at ease. The overall layout is organized and clutter-free, maintaining a peaceful setting that promotes calm and safety.
The SM Sensory Lab features soft lights, tactile panels, and a calming atmosphere — thoughtfully designed to support the sensory needs of individuals.
Designed for inclusivity, the SM Sensory Lab offers features that create a comforting and accessible malling experience.
Redefining Malling with Care and Inclusion
“SM Mall of Asia is proud to lead this effort toward more inclusive malling experiences,” Mr. Steven Tan continued. “We believe that true hospitality means ensuring everyone—regardless of their needs—has a place where they can feel comfortable and cared for.”
As the first SM Supermall set to open a Sensory Lab, SM Mall of Asia reinforces its role as a pioneer in inclusive and compassionate mall design, setting the foundation for similar spaces to be rolled out across other SM malls nationwide.
Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers with 89 malls in the Philippines—marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and becoming a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while continuously evolving to redefine the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive and meaningful experiences.
