Wellbeing for Students

Ideas to Support the Holistic Needs of Students Through Space Design

Designing learning environments that focus on student wellness is essential for students to belong, engage and achieve. None of this is possible by using a strategy of design by inertia. It takes sustained, intentional design to truly support the needs of all students.

Now more than ever educators need to use every option to support our students as they struggle through a variety of issues with mental health. The Centers for Disease Control reports that a substantial proportion of teenagers feel persistently sad or hopeless, with reports suggesting that 42% of students felt this way in recent years. In addition, their data show that in 2023, more than one in five students seriously considered attempting suicide, and one in ten attempted suicide.

With these realities in mind, consider these shifts to your classroom and furnishings that could be the part of the support system needed for greater wellness:

Emphasize Natural Light, Ventilation and Air Quality

Classrooms should maximize natural light and fresh air to enhance mood and cognitive function. High-efficiency air filtration systems and the maintenance of optimal indoor air quality support respiratory health and reduce the spread of airborne illnesses.

Incorporate Flexible Seating and Encourage Movement

Introducing flexible seating arrangements allows students to choose their optimal learning posture, promoting physical health and engagement. This includes integrating standing desks and movable chairs to encourage movement and reduce sedentary behavior.

Integrate Nature and Outdoor Learning

Providing access to outdoor spaces and ensuring classrooms have views of greenery can reduce stress and improve concentration. Designing outdoor learning areas and maintaining a visual connection to nature enhances students’ connection to the natural environment.

Prioritize Acoustics for Enhanced Learning

Managing noise levels through the strategic use of materials and design elements is crucial to minimize distractions and enhance focus. Utilizing sound-absorbing materials and creating quiet zones can support varied learning activities without acoustic interference.

Support Social and Emotional Wellness

Spaces that foster social interaction and emotional well-being, such as communal areas and breakout spaces, are vital. Classrooms should be inclusive and adaptable to the diverse needs of all students, supporting their social and emotional wellness.

Incorporate Color and Biophilic Design

The use of color psychology and biophilic design principles can create an uplifting and stimulating environment. Incorporating natural materials, plants, and elements that mimic nature enhances the aesthetic appeal and therapeutic value of learning spaces.