It is the role of an architect to not only design a school building, but a space that fosters learning for children of all ages. The modern classroom has shifted from four walls, a desk, and a whiteboard to a flexible space that is adaptable to different teaching styles, activities, and the needs of the students.
There are many architectural aspects that should be considered when designing a classroom to ensure students and teachers have functional space that can also be easily reconfigured.
Flexible spaces require innovative solutions to noise management. Fortunately, we now have movable partitions that are acoustically rated with sound-deadening foam, instead of the thin plastic room dividers of the past. By incorporating movable walls and dividers, as well as modular furniture, we are enabling teachers to create an environment that encourages collaboration amongst students while also allowing for a more traditional approach to teaching when desired.
With the ever-growing presence of technology in the classroom, architects and designers must now consider the placement and accessibility of power outlets, interactive displays, and adequate storage that will be most efficient for the teachers and safe for the students.
For school districts with limited space but an overgrowing student population, flexible spaces are becoming necessary. The ability to adapt a room to accommodate more students without sacrificing stability and structure within the classroom can greatly influence the way a teacher operates their class.
Flexible spaces are no longer just a design trend; they represent a shift in the way architects and designers approach a project. As education evolves, we must evolve with it.
At JACOB | MARTIN we prioritize designing spaces that will accomplish our client’s goals of offering their students a safe place that fosters creativity and learning.