10 Practical and Useful Tips for Better Classroom Designs

1. Have I included a variety of spaces for different numbers of children?

The ideal classroom has a space where everyone can be together, as well as spaces for smaller groups and pairs. An area for an individual to reflect and reset is just as important as areas that support collaboration. Does the furniture arrangement and classroom design support different size groups in the various areas of my classroom?

2. Can my children easily transition between different areas of the classroom?

Does my classroom layout support children moving seamlessly from one area to another, therefore enabling them to combine materials and concepts for a greater depth of learning? If not, what is preventing the flow, and how can I fix this?

3. Are tools and materials easily able to be transported by children?

Your classroom organization should support the ability for children to access, transport, and cleanup materials easily. Does the organization and presentation of materials offer this? Consider baskets, bags, and bins that are easily manipulated by young children.

4. Do I offer unconventional or unique storage options?

While still achieving the objectives of question #3, are some of the materials stored in innovative ways? Is there space for me to offer materials in containers that might hang vertically on a wall? What can I replace the standard plastic bin with that would peak children’s interests? Offering unconventional storage options might just spark imaginations and supports everyone to think about combining materials in interesting ways.

5. How can I capitalize on natural lighting?

Can I improve aesthetics and reduce the harsh overhead lighting and glare by taking advantage of my natural lighting? Is there a window I can use to bring attention to the natural world? Draw attention to the outdoors, including the buildings, and land beyond the classroom walls. Use lightweight curtains to frame the windows, plants, stained glass sun catchers, or other decorations that emphasize the natural lighting. Window ledges offer a tiny space to place beautiful objects from nature such as geodes, shells, and other materials that are best shown in natural lighting.

6. Am I showcasing living things in my classroom space?

Plants are not only a wonderful way to model the natural world, but they freshen our air and add to the aesthetics of our environments. Studies show that plants add an element of serenity to a space, making them perfect as classroom decor. They also add the opportunity to learn about life cycles and responsibility as children share in the task of watering and caring for plants and other living classroom creatures. A local nursery should be able to help you choose child-safe indoor plants for your classroom design. We also recommend checking with your school board to find out if hermit crabs, guinea pigs, and other small animals are welcome in your classroom.

7. How do my indoor and outdoor spaces speak to one another?

How can I connect the natural world outside with my indoor space? What tools and materials do I have in the indoor classroom that are appropriate for use in the outdoor classroom and playground, and vice versa? Will the children be able to transport all of these materials easily?

8. Am I listening to the architecture of my space?

Consider what materials and furniture are best given the space you’ve been provided. It is tempting to force furniture we love into spaces where it doesn’t belong. As the saying goes, a round peg won’t fit in a square hole. Consider the architecture and seek out appropriate furniture to make the best use out of a corner, a pillar, or an oddly placed cabinet. Expert tip: you never know what a fellow teacher might have to discard, that would be perfect in your space - go shopping within your school!

9. Am I creating visual interest in my space?

There is a common misconception that all wall hangings should be at eye level for children. However, varying the height of your wall decor creates visual interest and encourages children to change their perspectives. We recommend a balance of wall hangings and shelving at various heights on the wall from floor to ceiling. Question 7 can help guide your decisions.

10. Am I using color effectively in my decor?

Studies show too many colors on a large scale, such as with interior design, can be overstimulating and cause cognitive shut-down. Experts recommend sticking with neutral shades and fewer than 3 distinct colors in larger spaces. Here’s an expert tip for you: many paint companies now provide “color family” guides for free. Check with your local hardware store to get ideas for corresponding pallets to help you shape the color story of your classroom.