Sensory Guide: Agnes Blackadder Hall
Agnes Blackadder Hall (ABH) is an undergraduate-only hall at the University of St Andrews. All rooms are en suite and can be either single or shared. Catering is available, and residents also have access to Powell Hall next door.
This sensory guide outlines what you might experience in key spaces across the building to help you navigate the environment with greater ease.
Agnes Blackadder Hall is located on the North Haugh, St Andrews (KY16 9XW).
Entrance
Visual 👁
- Initially darker lighting on entry
- Opens out into a brighter, skylit area
- Seating area with couches
Audio 👂
- Carpeted flooring helps dampen the sound of footsteps
Touch & Personal Space ✋
- Softer flooring underfoot
- Seating available for waiting or resting
Dining Hall
Visual 👁
- Large windows providing plenty of natural light
- Overhead lighting can feel bright for some
- Some quieter seating areas available
Audio 👂
- Very noisy during mealtimes 🔉
- Multiple sound sources: conversations, scraping chairs, plates and cutlery, kitchen noise
Touch & Personal Space ✋
- Can feel busy and crowded at peak times
Smell 👃
- Strong food smells during meal service
Forbes Bar
Visual 👁
- Very dim lighting
- Variety of seating options available
Audio 👂
- Generally quiet during the day
Touch & Personal Space ✋
- Calm environment suitable for quiet study throughout the day
Study Room
Visual 👁
- Bright lighting
- Computer and printer access
- Separate team meeting room with a whiteboard
Audio 👂
- Quiet study environment
Touch & Personal Space ✋
- Structured workspaces available
Common Room
Visual 👁
- Lots of natural light
- Couches, chairs, and tables
- Pool table and table tennis table
Audio 👂
- Noise levels vary depending on activities taking place
Touch & Personal Space ✋
- Can feel busy at times
- Mail is collected in this space
Laundry Room
Visual 👁
- Small, enclosed space
Audio 👂
- Can be noisy when washing machines and dryers are running 🔉
Touch & Personal Space ✋
- Very small and can feel cramped
Smell 👃
- Strong detergent smells
Shared Kitchens
Visual 👁
- Natural light
- Compact layout with limited space
Audio 👂
- Noise levels depend on how many people are using the kitchen
Touch & Personal Space ✋
- Shared between approximately 7–14 students
- Cupboards are individually lockable 🔒
- Can become messy or feel unclean at times
Smell 👃
- Potential food smells from cooking
Bedrooms
Visual 👁
- Small window
- Several lighting options: main light, above-bed lights, and desk lamp
- Blackout curtains provided
Audio 👂
- Generally quieter, private space
Touch & Personal Space ✋
- Limited floor space
- Double bed provided
Garden Space
Visual 👁
- Green space with large trees
- Courtyard-style windows overlook the area
Audio 👂
- Typically calm outdoor sound environment
Touch & Personal Space ✋
- Swing seat and picnic benches available
- Open space allows for distance from others
Address:
Agnes Blackadder Hall
North Haugh
St Andrews, KY16 9XW