SCHOOL MAINTENANCE & DESIGN
University of Derby
In the zone: how considered design can create inclusive spaces for all
considerations, such as ease of maintenance and longevity, often take priority over aesthetic design to keep things cost-effective. But while this ensures university buildings function efficiently, the impact that visual choices can have on students should not be overlooked. The design of university buildings extends beyond what looks nice. Colour, texture, shape, zoning, lighting – the list goes on – all play a significant role in how students navigate spaces, absorb information, and ultimately feel within the spaces they use on a daily basis.
Flooring in particular offers a powerful yet often underutilised tool for subtly guiding movement and defining zones, without compromising practicality.
Finding your way H
ere, Laura Light, Concept Design Team Leader at flooring solutions company Interface, discusses how carefully considered design across defined zones can positively impact university learning environments.
The top two goals for education estates tend to be efficiency and durability. That means practical
For many students, particularly those new to campus, navigating unfamiliar buildings can be challenging. Poor spatial design and unclear wayfinding contribute to confusion, lateness, and unnecessary stress – factors that can negatively impact learning outcomes and overall wellbeing. This challenge can be even more pronounced for neurodivergent students. Busy corridors, excessive noise, and unclear spatial cues can contribute to sensory overload, making it harder to focus or self-regulate.
Designing spaces to have effective wayfinding 38
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can help to address these issues through subtle visual cues that help students instinctively understand how to move through a space without relying on explicit signage alone. Thoughtful transitions between different zones, such as entrances, circulation areas and learning environments, can help buildings become more understandable and less cognitively demanding.
“Colour, texture, shape, zoning, lighting all play a significant role in how students navigate spaces, absorb information, and ultimately feel within the spaces they use on
a daily basis.“ Grounded in design
Different areas in higher education environments require different characteristics, and flooring is key to meeting these needs.
High-traffic areas benefit from durable materials that are easy to maintain while still offering visual appeal. Solutions like Interface’s
June 2026
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