Tony Huggins from David Bailey Furniture highlights the importance of the humble cupboard and fitted storage unit within a modern educational setting, and offers some key pointers for architects to consider
There is no doubt that schools are striving to be more welcoming, but that is difficult when you have buildings in serious need of refurbishment and where space is critical, possibly due to overcrowding and the need to create more classrooms.
These challenges are well documented, and it would be easy to ask what this has to do with something as modest as a storage unit? The answer is simple – clean, well-organised, vibrant units provide essential facilities for teaching professionals, but more importantly, well maintained colourful fitted units help to create the right ambience for pupils and their mental health.
The challenge for architects
The most important focus for every school facility is of course, the students. How can we make the education experience better and create an environment that promotes wellbeing?
The challenge is to meet the needs of a modern education environment where no two projects are the same. On one end of the scale, modular construction is continuing to play a more important role with the need for classroom space while at the other, a designer could be looking at buildings more than 100 years old, and in need of renovation to bring them up
to standard.
Pressure on schools to meet ever increasing demands and challenges – exacerbated by the recent pandemic – means that staff are having to work with units which have been installed for many years. In many cases these have become chipped or damaged, making them difficult to keep clean resulting in the potential for spreading infection. Modern units are designed to minimise this risk and should be a major consideration for architects when designing new interiors for schools.
It is also said that there are reports that teachers are frequently disappointed by the lack of storage space, particularly at a time when schools and colleges are being asked to be more flexible in their response to student needs.
The answer
Quality fitted furniture and robust storage solutions play a crucial role in creating a conducive and functional learning environment. Schools and academies need well-designed and organised spaces that promote learning and support the needs of students and staff.
Well-designed fitted furniture and storage solutions promote a sense of order and organisation, making it easier for students and staff to access learning materials and equipment. This can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels, improving the overall learning experience.
Good fitted furniture and storage solutions can also enhance the aesthetics of the learning environment, producing an attractive and engaging space for students to learn. This can be achieved through careful selection of colours and materials, creating an inviting and comfortable environment that supports learning.
Architects and specifiers should also consider colour choices and the need to develop attractive environments for students because these factors can have a significant impact on the learning experience. Colours and materials that are too bright or too dull can be distracting or uninviting, making it difficult for students to focus and engage in the learning process.
Because every school has unique needs and requirements, a one-size-fits-all approach may not be suitable. Instead working closely with manufacturers can help to identify the best solutions for each school’s specific needs, including customised storage solutions.
Storage choices
The best choice of fitted furniture for schools and academies should include flexible and modular designs that can be easily adapted to changing needs. For example, modular furniture can be configured in different ways to support various learning activities, while flexible storage solutions can be easily reconfigured to accommodate changing storage needs. Additionally, furniture and storage solutions should be designed with safety and durability in mind, with materials and construction that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
Sloping tops fitted to fixed storage units ensure dust is unable to build up and surfaces can be easily wiped clean. This also deals with the safety consideration of staff potentially storing boxes on top of wall units – which would constitute a health and safety risk.
While good design, colour and materials all play a key part, it really all comes down to the working relationship between the architect and the school, while working closely with schools to provide solutions that serve their individual needs. One of the primary benefits of fitted furniture in schools is its flexibility. Fitted furniture can be designed to fit the unique requirements of a classroom, with shelves, drawers, base units, wall units and tall units customised to store educational materials and supplies in a neat and organised way.
Durable fitted furniture is an ideal choice for the wear and tear of school use. Made from high-quality materials, such furniture can withstand heavy use and remain in good condition for many years. This durability means that schools do not have to worry about continual replacement, which can be costly and time-consuming. In short, fitted furniture is a cost-effective option for schools, providing long-term value for money.
Tony Huggins is managing director at David Bailey Furniture