Public School Design: The Latest Trends

Article Written By: Corwin Smith

A popular trend in school building today is sustainability. Classrooms are planned where they receive the most daylight. Natural, low-off gassing materials are preferred and for a good reason; they result in fewer sick days for both students and faculty.

Recycled rubber mats are being used in physical education classes. Energy bills are always a concern for school districts, and energy-efficient lighting works in conjunction with natural-lighting efforts. In urban schools, where space is often a commodity, the commercial contractor can create such innovative designs as underground gymnasiums and half high auditoriums, with play yards on top of them. Rooms that do double-duty are also a vital part of an urban school.

Cafeterias that double as auditoriums are nothing new, but some schools have created extra large foyers that double as extra space at lunch time, taking pressure off over-crowded cafeterias. When corridors are built extra wide, they can double as study or meeting areas with the addition of some tables, increasing their usefulness.

The model of K-8 schools is on the rise. Especially in urban areas, they are becoming popular, not only because of the use of one building over two or three, but also because of the sense of community it creates within the school. Older students mentor the younger ones and parents enjoy the sameness it brings.

Collaboration of construction companies with educators is also helping to bring about universal design. This would include installing a push pad or ramp for the main door instead of a separate door for individuals with special needs, for example. Separating special needs individuals is not effective, and the new trend is to make public schools as friendly as possible.

Many contractors will create classrooms with microphones for the teacher, to aid not only hearing disabled students, but also all of the students in the classroom. Student-centered classrooms, such as L-shaped rooms, which are conducive to small groups, are becoming more popular. Allowing natural light and the thoughtful consideration to artificial lighting enhances the learning environment.

Sometimes they will design a classroom where the artificial lighting is controlled by the teacher, not technology. Also, glass-topped doors allow natural light to enter the hallway, creating a friendlier environment, as well as a safer one. Transparent doors allow for informal security both in the hallway and the classroom.

Outdoor classrooms” create a learning environment like no other. Student-maintained gardens, ponds, and other eco-systems are effective with students of all ages and abilities.

From simple solutions such as double-duty areas and rooms to the newer idea of green schools, those involved with Minneapolis construction are able to handle any task for the betterment of the community.

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