Staying true to its mission of creating a mall for all, SM Supermalls, through its corporate social responsibility arm SM Cares, is set to open the first-ever SM Sensory Lab at SM Mall of Asia. This dedicated space is designed to offer a calm, comfortable environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing disorder (SPD), and anxiety.
The SM Sensory Lab: Calming Corner supports SM Cares’ advocacy for Persons with Disabilities and marks another major step toward making every mall visit welcoming, inclusive, and compassionate. It provides a restful retreat from overstimulating environments and ensures that more Filipinos can enjoy a positive malling experience.
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), the initiative highlights SM’s commitment to promoting accessibility, understanding, 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. Soft lighting helps minimize visual overstimulation, and a quiet atmosphere reduces auditory triggers. Comfortable seating areas with soft chairs and cushions provide a relaxing space, while sensory items such as calming toys and blankets offer additional tactile comfort.
Admission is free and open to both children and adults with sensory sensitivities, accompanied by a guardian or caregiver. To support emotional regulation and navigation, the space also includes visual supports and schedules. Its organized, clutter-free layout helps maintain a peaceful setting that promotes calm and safety.
Redefining Malling with Care and Inclusion
“SM Mall of Asia is proud to lead this effort toward more inclusive malling experiences,” Mr. Tan added. “True hospitality means ensuring everyone, regardless of their needs, has a place where they can feel comfortable and cared for.”
As the first SM mall to introduce a Sensory Lab, SM Mall of Asia reinforces its role as a pioneer in inclusive and compassionate mall design, laying the groundwork for similar spaces to be introduced 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, continues its four-decade legacy of growing with Filipinos. It remains a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while continuously evolving through sustainability, innovation, and a strong commitment to creating inclusive and meaningful malling experiences.
