image freepik.com


Article


Maximising space - creative solutions for small school sites


As urban areas across the UK continue to grow, the demand for educational facilities in densely populated regions has soared. Yet, with limited land available, schools are increasingly being built on smaller sites. This poses a significant challenge: how can we provide students with the best possible learning environments when space is at a premium? The answer lies in innovative design and creative thinking. In this article School Building Magazine Editor Joe Bradbury explores some of the most effective strategies to maximise space on small school sites, ensuring that pupils have access to the facilities they need to thrive:


O


ne of the most straightforward solutions to limited ground space is to build upwards. Multi-storey school buildings are becoming increasingly common, particularly in urban areas where land is scarce. By constructing additional floors, schools can accommodate more classrooms, specialised learning spaces, and even outdoor areas without expanding their footprint. However, building upwards comes with its own set of challenges. For one, architects and engineers must carefully consider the impact on accessibility. Lifts and ramps must be seamlessly integrated into the design to ensure that the school is fully accessible to all students, including those with disabilities. Additionally, the placement of stairwells, escape routes, and fire safety measures becomes even more critical in multi-storey buildings.


Beyond these practical considerations, there is also the need to maintain a sense of community within the school. Vertical schools can sometimes feel disconnected, with different year groups or departments becoming isolated on separate floors. To combat this, architects are increasingly incorporating atriums and open staircases into their designs, creating visual and physical links between floors and fostering a greater sense of cohesion.


Flexibility is key


Another key strategy for maximising space in small schools is the creation of multipurpose areas. Traditional school designs often segregate different activities into distinct rooms—classrooms for teaching, gyms for sports, and halls for assemblies. While this approach has its merits, it can also lead to inefficiencies, with spaces remaining unused for large portions of the day.


14 Autumn 2024 issue 4177


In contrast, multipurpose spaces are designed to be flexible, accommodating a range of activities throughout the school day. A single hall, for example, might serve as a dining area during lunchtime, a performance space for drama in the afternoon, and a sports hall in the evening. By designing spaces that can easily be reconfigured, schools can make the most of every square metre. To achieve this, architects often employ modular furniture and partition walls that can be moved or rearranged as needed. Acoustic panels and advanced lighting systems can also help to create the right atmosphere for different activities, ensuring that each space feels fit for purpose regardless of its use at any given time.


Expanding beyond the classroom


While it might seem counterintuitive, one of the most effective ways to maximise space within a school is to make greater use of outdoor areas. Outdoor learning has been shown to have numerous benefits for students, from improving concentration and engagement to boosting physical and mental well-being. For schools with limited indoor space, utilising the outdoors can be a game- changer.


This doesn’t necessarily mean extensive grounds are required. Even small outdoor areas can be transformed into valuable learning spaces with a bit of creativity. Courtyards, rooftops, and even small patches of greenery can be turned into outdoor classrooms, gardens, or play areas. Covered outdoor spaces can provide shelter from the elements, making outdoor learning a year- round option rather than a seasonal activity.


Moreover, outdoor spaces can be designed to serve multiple functions, much like their indoor counterparts. A playground, for


In addition to traditional storage, some schools are adopting more innovative solutions. For example, underfloor storage can be used to house equipment or resources that are not needed on a daily basis, while retractable seating and fold-away desks can help to create a more adaptable learning environment.


In summary


Maximising space in small school sites requires a blend of creativity, innovation, and thoughtful design. By building upwards, creating multipurpose spaces, making the most of outdoor areas, and adopting smart storage solutions, schools can ensure that even the smallest sites offer rich, varied, and flexible learning environments. As the demand for educational facilities in urban areas continues to grow, these strategies will be increasingly essential in ensuring that every student has the space they need to learn and thrive.


instance, can double as an outdoor theatre or sports area with the addition of portable equipment. Similarly, gardens can be used for science lessons, art projects, or simply as a quiet space for reflection and relaxation.


Reducing clutter


In any school, clutter can quickly become a problem, particularly in smaller spaces where every inch counts. To combat this, smart storage solutions are essential. Built-in storage, such as cupboards and shelving, can help to keep classrooms tidy and free up valuable floor space. Mobile storage units, which can be easily moved around the school, provide flexibility and ensure that resources are always where they are needed.


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32