Redefining Décor in Educational Spaces
A damning parliamentary inquiry last year found that 700,000 pupils in the UK are learning in classrooms that are in desperate need of major refurbishment or rebuilding. It’s easy to think of rebuilds and refurbishments simply in terms of windows, doors, flooring, and ceilings being replaced, cracks being repaired, the addition of equipment such as notice boards, and a few fresh coats of paint. However, given the impact of educational space decoration on learning, it’s vitally important to choose thoughtful and innovative décor that helps create a supportive environment.
The right educational space redecoration can influence learning outcomes, enhance student engagement, and reflect your institution’s values. Explore how to customise spaces for learning, discover budget friendly renovation options, and find additional ideas for creating inspiring educational environments with Bell.
Customising Spaces for Learning
Using educational space decoration to create customised learning spaces requires an understanding of the impact of décor on learning, how to tailor designs to different educational levels, and how to incorporate branding and school identity.
Understanding the impact of décor on learning: Colours, layouts, and textures can influence student concentration, creativity, and overall wellbeing. A study found that colour plays such a significant a role in perception that specific colours such as white, blue, and green can create anticipated learning outcomes. The study also found a direct link between colour and student behaviour, mood, memorisation, and performance. Additionally, students such as those with autism spectrum disorders are more sensitive to colour schemes, which can affect their visual processing abilities and sensory response. Bell’s institute decoration services team can recommend colour palettes that support learning.
Tailoring designs to different educational levels: Educational space redecoration needs vary between primary schools, secondary schools, and higher education institutions due to varying age groups, learning styles, and environments. Create vibrant, engaging spaces in primary schools using bright colours, educational murals, interactive displays, and flexible layouts that encourage movement and group activities. Use calming or neutral colours, minimalist designs, display boards with subject-specific content, and specialist rooms with purpose-driven decor to create functional, organised environments that foster academic discipline in secondary schools. Choose neutral tones, minimalist designs, and modern, ergonomic furniture and technology to create a professional, mature environment that promotes focus and supports different study methods and use artwork and branding to enhance the institution’s identity.
Incorporating branding and school identity: School logos, colours, and mission statements embody an institution’s aspirations, heritage, and values. Use these elements within the design to reflect the institution’s brand and identity and to help create a cohesive community.
Budget-Friendly Renovation Options
Educational space redecoration need not be a costly, disruptive exercise, thanks to cost-effective paint techniques, durable and low-maintenance materials, and phased renovation strategies.
Cost-effective paint techniques: Various paint techniques allow you to provide a fresh look while staying within budget. Choose wall stencilling as an affordable, customisable alternative to a solid colour accent wall or to introduce pops of colour. Use techniques such as colour blocking, ombre gradients, or sponge painting for accent walls. Paint murals to inspire, reinforce the curriculum, reduce redecorating budgets, stimulate interest, create a fun atmosphere, and/or make the school easier to navigate.
Durable and low-maintenance materials: Use materials and finishes that are durable and low-maintenance to ensure that the investment in educational institute decoration services is long-lasting and cost-effective. Select materials such as scrubbable or anti-microbial paint, or PVC or laminated wall panels for walls and finishes; luxury vinyl tiles, rubber flooring, or carpet tiles for flooring; laminate or solid surface worktops for furniture and surfaces; and aluminium or uPVC frames for windows and doors.
Phased renovation strategies: Plan educational space decoration and renovations in phases or during school holidays. This can help minimise disruptions to the learning environment and educational process. If necessary, consider using modular classrooms or temporary relocations to further reduce disruptions.
Décor That Inspires Learning
Redefining educational space decoration is essential for creating environments that inspire and support student success. By customising designs to enhance learning, offering budget-friendly renovation options, and considering the functionality of the space, educational institutions can create vibrant and effective learning environments. Prioritise the transformation of your educational spaces with Bell Group’s expert educational institute decoration services. Contact us to learn more.
