Module 3. compelling Experience and Education #2(Architecture and Interior Design)

Last week, I talked about the insight for the clients when we design the spaces. Then, how should the designer consider these type of clients (teachers and students) for designing educational spaces (classroom)? What kinds of insight would help designers to create compelling classrooms? After I read several articles in this week, I think the following elements should be considered for in the design process.

First is the scale. Depending on the age of the students, the human scale is really important in designing space. If the scale is not appropriate for the students, they cannot feel stable and comfortable. The larger place is not always better. As Susanka said, the smaller/well scaled spaces provide comfort and efficient feeling. The right human scale brings rest to our body and it leads us to a calm and steady feeling.

Second thing would be the traffic. The efficient human traffic is always one of the most important factors in designing spaces. Especially for the public space, well planned human traffic is indispensible. For example, in the classrooms, the main traffic should not distract the student’s learning environments and keep the students safe. Dividing main traffic and second traffic also can be effective in reducing the congestion. It can be done by using different floor materials or furnishing arrangements. They provide not only the visual effect, but also affect the student’s learning environment. By using the right traffic line, the collaborations and independence can be simultaneously encouraged to the students.    

Besides physical factors, using the right color scheme is also crucial. While the warm color scheme provides brightness, and encouragement, the cool color schemes are more likely to enhance the focus and calmness. Depending on the goal of the space, choosing the right color scheme is essential. We cannot easily change the architectural elements, but changing the color scheme can easily move people’s feeling about the space.

There are many other factors which should be considered for designing compelling spaces. However, depending on the goal and main function of the space, the priorities would be different. I think that the space should contain all the details about the people who would use the space. The deep insight about the client would provide a good solution for all these elements.