CHAPTER 7: INTERIOR SPACE DESIGN
rather than built-in types. The designer must ensure that the space, as
Children's toilets and sinks
designed can accommodate the manufactured cubbies specified. To
Eating/table area
ensure that the proliferation of children's personal items in and around
Food preparation
cubbies does not destroy the order and function of the classroom, cubbies
Open activity area for play and development
should be arranged to form a "cloakroom," or entrance alcove, with their
openings facing away from main classroom areas.
Area with level change (three risers minimum)
Cot storage
Children require opportunities for a range of diverse activities in the
classroom. Limited areas of mirrored ceiling tiles, especially about infant
Older Toddler Classroom:
areas are desirable. Lofts, which GSA will typically purchase, offer an
important feature for exploration within the classroom. Though provided
Entrance
by GSA, the designer must accommodate this furniture within the design.
Cubby storage
Built-in lofts are not recommended. Where low shelves and partitions are
Classroom and teacher storage
used to separate use areas, they must be secured against tipping. A mixed-
Children's toilets and sinks (one sink at toilet exit preferable to avoid
age classroom typically provides all elements needed for each age group.
congestion)
A well-equipped classroom for particular age groups requires the following
specific areas:
Eating/table area
Art sink
Infant Classroom:
Area with level change (three risers minimum)
Entrance
Open, unrestricted activity area
Cubby storage
Water fountain
Classroom and teacher storage
Cot storage
Adult toilet within classroom (preferable), but no more than 10 meters
from infant classroom entry
Diapering station and storage
Pre-School Classroom:
Sleeping/crib area
Entrance
Nursing area
Cubby storage
Eating/table area
A three-year old classroom requires a small diaper changing area
Food preparation
Classroom and teacher storage
Open activity and crawling area for play and development
Children's toilets and sinks (one sink at toilet exit preferable to avoid
congestion) and seperate toilet for male and female for ages 4 and up
Eating/table area
Young Toddler Classroom:
Art sink
Entrance
Water play area
Cubby storage
Drinking fountain
Classroom and teacher storage
Loft area
Adult toilet within 10 meters of entry
Area with level change (three risers minimum)
Diapering station and storage
PBS-140 - July 2003
7-6
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