Like in all sectors where innovation is highly valued, education is also based on the principle of constant growth and adaptation.
As an essential component of the learning experience, educational spaces and the design of modern school furniture must also respond to this principle and evolve. With this in mind, here are five design features that innovative schools use to achieve success:
- Versatility in design
Gone are the days when a rigid chair joined an immovable desk at a single and awkward height for anyone who did not meet a standard of height, placed in a row of identical furniture strictly facing forward.
The best 21st century school furniture design is smarter, more creative, and offers versatility and movement. It maximizes the potential for various uses and can often be adjusted or reconfigured to best suit both the user and the environment.
Flexible and versatile seating options, as well as height-adjustable desks, adapt to diverse tasks and contemporary learning styles.
Here are some examples of modern school furniture design that is transforming educational environments:
- Stackable desks and seating elements
- Mobile storage units
- The easily foldable and storable didactic accessories
- Emphasis on the student experience
The student is at the centre of the learning experience, so the best school furniture design emphasizes the physical and mental well-being of the student, allowing for a more holistic learning experience.
Immobility, rigidness and uncomfortable standard furniture detract from concentration, creativity, and physical well-being for students. On the other hand, when students enjoy the learning experience, the whole class benefits.
- Coherence of furniture and environment
The best design of school furniture is not about the furniture itself, but about creating the ideal environment. Ensuring that a given space and its furnishings complement each other can have a transformative effect on the learning experience.
This key principle of educational furniture design extends to both use and aesthetics: when the overall design of a space makes sense, optimal functionality follows naturally and comfort becomes king.
Modern classrooms are often unique spaces used for various activities. When students feel that their environment is constructive, helpful and ready for the task at hand, the learning experience improves dramatically.
- Create spaces
Some school environments allow the design of naturally flowing learning areas and open outdoor learning areas in contact with nature.
Others, especially in environments where space is limited, a versatile, stackable and adjustable furniture allows passageways or wasted spaces to quickly become corners suitable for cooperative work in which to share ideas in small groups.
Mobile dividers and moveable furniture solutions instantly transform spaces from individual-centric to social and group-oriented. These are our favourites.
