What Design Features are important in an Art classroom?

Art classrooms are unique spaces that require careful design consideration. From potato prints to clay sculptures and every artistic discipline in between, these rooms must accommodate a wide range of tools and materials.

At Innova Design Group, we understand the importance of creating an environment that fosters creativity, supports learning, and meets the practical needs of both students and teachers. Let’s explore the key design features that can transform an ordinary room into an inspiring art classroom.

Storage

An art classroom requires efficient storage solutions to manage the myriad of materials and tools used in various projects. At Innova, we can completely customise the classroom to your requirements. Our storage solutions include:

• Built-in drying racks to ensure a full class’s drawings and paintings can be dried.
• Lockable art portfolio storage for student coursework.
• A range of storage systems to maximise space and allow seamless lesson delivery.

Well-designed storage keeps the classroom tidy, makes materials easily accessible, and teaches students the importance of caring for art supplies.

Art Tables

Large tables are essential in art classrooms, giving students a generous work surface to complete projects. At Innova, we use quality materials such as Trespa to guarantee durability and longevity. These tables offer ample space for individual work and can be arranged to facilitate group projects when needed.

Display Space

One of the most effective ways to encourage students to engage with art projects is the chance to see their work displayed inside or outside the classroom. A dedicated display space which receives plenty of footfall can help students feel valued and proud of their work. Additionally, an open display encourages artistic discussion between students and teachers.

Several types of display spaces could complement your art classroom. Flexible display walls, like those in the art rooms at Southlands High School, provide the ability to showcase both 2D and 3D media, allowing you to recreate the visual effect of an art gallery.

Lighting

Perhaps more than any other classroom, it is important to consider the lighting options in an art classroom. Allowing a high quantity of natural daylight into the room can have a wide range of benefits for the students and the quality of their work. Natural light offers:

• Health and wellness benefits.
• Increased clarity for viewing objects, models, and muses.
• Improved colour accuracy.

Additionally, feature lighting can be incorporated to implement directed and zoned lighting, which can be beneficial when teaching students about shading and shadows.

Ventilation

If you use materials and techniques in art classes that emit fumes and dust, the room must have sufficient ventilation options. Consider where these materials are located in the room and concentrate the ventilation options in these spaces so the fumes can be effectively removed. Proper ventilation ensures a safe and comfortable environment for students and teachers alike.

Sinks and Electrical Outlets

Both sinks and electrical outlets are hugely important in the modern art classroom but should never be placed in close proximity to one another. The dangers of mixing water and electricity could potentially harm students and teachers.

Consider the paths walked by students and teachers and where electrical appliances with mains connections will be best positioned. Place the sinks and electrical outlets appropriately so use is efficient and electrical appliances needn’t be moved far through the classroom.

Deep Basin Sink

A deep basin sink is an essential feature in any art classroom. It provides ample space for cleaning brushes, palettes, and other art tools, as well as for filling containers with water for various art projects. The depth of the sink helps contain splashes and spills, keeping the surrounding area clean and dry.

Creating the Ideal Art Classroom with Innova Design Group

Designing an effective art classroom requires careful consideration of numerous factors, from storage and lighting to safety and practical features. At Innova Design Group, we specialise in creating bespoke interior design solutions for educational spaces, including art classrooms that inspire creativity and support learning.

We recognise that each school has unique needs, curriculum focuses, and budgetary considerations. Our team of experienced designers and education specialists work closely with you to create a space that meets current needs and is flexible enough to adapt to future changes in art education.

Investing in a new art classroom is a big decision. That is why we offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your needs and provide initial ideas. Our team can also assist with budgeting and phasing plans if you want to upgrade your art classroom and facilities.

Contact us to start the journey towards creating an art classroom that will engage students for years to come.