Private schools in the UK are embracing popular trends in design and construction to create spaces which foster creativity and collaboration – as well as creating a high-quality learning environment for current and future needs.
As leading specialists in design, construction, refurbishment and property maintenance for private schools, we understand the importance of a well-designed school.
In this blog, we’ve taken a look at five of the latest design and construction trends that are shaping the look and feel of private schools across the UK.
Welcoming reception areas
Like in many areas of life, first impressions are everything.
And, as reception areas are often the first impression you get of a school, we’re seeing many private schools focus on bright and welcoming design in their reception spaces.
Choosing the right colours for the walls – often lighter colours – or selecting the most suitable desks and soft furnishings to complement the space, can enhance the feel of a school and leave a warm lasting impression.
A great example of this is our work for Quinton House School & Nursery in Northampton.
We provided a full refurbishment of the reception and Head Teacher’s office, using new flooring, soft furnishings, lighting, wall & ceiling redecoration and bespoke reception desks and coffee tables.
The light colours chosen work with natural sunlight to establish a welcoming space. The furniture choices create an inviting environment which gives staff and pupils – both current and prospective – a warm welcome to the school.
Design in-keeping with the building’s architecture
Throughout the many projects we’ve worked on, we’ve seen more and more private schools keep their design and construction projects in line with the architecture of their existing buildings.
Many of the private schools we work with are housed in listed buildings and, rather than choosing ultra-modern interiors, most like to stay in-keeping with the quintessentially British décor of the building.
This includes high-quality furnishings and traditional patterns, whether they are on the walls, floors or furniture.
And, on the other side, some of the private schools we work with are situated in more modern buildings and so prefer to adopt more contemporary interiors which suit the exterior style of the building.
Modern or classic, we find that our clients like to follow the style of design as it helps to maintain the school’s identity – and ensures the interior flows seamlessly throughout the building for a premium experience.
Here at Project 1, whether it’s a modern renovation or a refurbishment in-keeping with the historic architecture of a listed building, we work with our clients to deliver the design they want.
Colourful and engaging spaces for learning
Creating inspiring spaces for children to learn in is key when it comes to any construction or design project in private schools.
Colours and other visually stimulating elements can encourage creativity and imagination among learners- and evoke positive emotions and a welcoming atmosphere.
Private schools seek to deliver high quality education for their pupils, so providing the very best learning spaces is paramount.
We followed this trend in our work with Hendon Preparatory School, an independent school in London.
We carried out a full refurbishment of the nursery, including complete redecoration and construction of new internal walls, incorporating modern and colourful design to engage the children.
One of the main additions was a safe kitchen space for cookery-based learning, adding to the engaging learning environment.
Sustainability and Net Zero
As awareness of environmental issues grows, many private schools are looking to incorporate greater sustainability into their design, construction and refurbishment projects.
The UK is moving ever-closer to its target of Net Zero by 2050, so many schools are keen to find ways to improve their energy usage and reduce their impact on the environment. Not only does this include factoring sustainability into new constructions, but designing it into refurbishment projects too.
From energy-efficient lighting and heating systems, to the use of recycled and eco-friendly materials, private schools are taking steps to reduce their carbon emissions – now and for the future.
This commitment to sustainability not only aligns with global environmental goals but also acts as a valuable lesson for students.
Engaging outdoor spaces
Many private schools are investing in inspiring external spaces to leverage the benefits of outdoor learning.
Courtyards, gardens and playgrounds provide students with opportunities to connect with nature and engage in experiential learning. Adaptable outdoor spaces also allow for socialisation and relaxation, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience.
We helped Akeley Wood School in Milton Keynes create an outdoor space for their pupils with the installation of a unique umbrella shaped canopy.
This helped the school make the most of their outdoor space and encourages pupils to spend their breaks outside.
Need help with a design or construction project? Project 1 can help
Here at Project 1, we have extensive experience working on new-build and renovation projects in the education sector across the South and East of England.
Our team understand the necessary regulations and requirements when designing and constructing for the education sector – including those outlined within the Area Guidelines for Mainstream Schools’ (BB103).
In addition to the private education sector, we work in both the commercial and domestic sectors, including the public, leisure & retail sectors.
Whether it’s design, maintenance, construction or refurbishment, we have the skills and knowledge you need to ensure reliable and professional delivery of any project.