As part of my role as Acting Deputy Principal, I was responsible for the sourcing and selection of the interior furniture selections for the new building – Atrium space, three Reception classrooms, three intervention spaces, Art space, Multi-purpose room and Music room.

Although the Architects has provided an Interior Designer with ideas, it was thought that the new additions of furniture were too generic, expensive and over used in other contexts. I researched other companies, went to visit other locations (out of our sector too) and found a company that met our aesthetic and educational needs.

Below are some images of the flexible furniture choices. The colour theme of fabrics to suit our Sun, Sea and Land theme, Scandi light coloured furniture to bring in lightness and calm. Our internal trees with sound proof leaves to reduce noise levels and classroom desks with white board tops to support our newly introduced phonics approach were some examples of better suiting our context.

This process was done in consultation with all stakeholders in how to utilise the space effetively, budgets were met, quality of fabrics chosen for longevity/durability. The notion of flexibility was particularly important so that in years to come the space could be used in other ways. Where possible furniture had height adjustments, whiteboard, ottamans, lounges and big art desks can be moved easily to suit the needs of the teacher in that space.