St Andrew’s School

Client Brief

St Andrews is a long-standing client of ours, having worked with them numerous times over the years. This time, we were approached by St Andrews school to design and refurbish three spaces.

These included the existing library within the nursery and two classrooms in the prep school. The rooms were very compact, so the school required our designers’ space planning expertise to optimise the use of space and functionality.

See one of our previous St Andrews classroom refurbishment projects here.

Library 

The library, situated with the nursery of the school, was very cluttered and had an incongruous assortment of furniture options. As such, our job was to make the space appear bigger, brighter, and more visually appealing while improving functionality. Furthermore, St Andrew’s wanted the space to serve as an occasional classroom and music room.

To improve functionality and maximise the available space, we installed two bespoke storage walls. These include large low-level shelves with bespoke stands so students can easily access the books.

Within the storage wall units, we installed a compartment where teachers can store puppets, which serve as props when telling stories. We also integrated low-level grapnel trays for further learning resources.

To improve the classroom’s visual impact and make it more fun, our school designers suggested a camping theme inspired by the British countryside. To achieve this, we installed nature and animal-themed felt ceiling panels, including birds, butterflies, leaves, and clouds. These are all bespoke and had to be laser cut for the school.

Other key features of the camping theme include the transformation of an existing cupboard into a reading nook. Triangular-shaped plyboards were installed for a tent-effect as well as upholstered seating that serves as additional storage. The nook was finished with the internal walls wrapped in a vinyl graphic displaying an English countryside scene. Combined, these elements create a fun and vibrant space that brings learning to life for the students.

Finally, we installed a variety display options for the teachers to highlight the “topics of the month” and other initiatives.

Classrooms

Next came the classroom refurbishments in the prep area of the school. In one of the classrooms, the spatial limitations meant there wasn’t enough space for teaching and storing learning materials.

With this in mind, our solution was to move the existing storage unit and replace with a media wall, which includes a “drop in” desk and a dedicated teaching area. We also boarded out the walls and installed new pinboards to the perimeter, giving the space a fresher look.

Likewise, in the second classroom we moved the existing storage unit and introduced a bespoke media wall. We also added more pinboards to display useful learning resources.

Are You Considering a School Refurbishment?

Has the St Andrew’s school refurb project inspired you to make changes to your school? If so, we’d be delighted to help. With a track record of delivering inspiring school transformations, we can bring our design expertise to your space too. From classrooms to libraires to reception areas and much more, we can update any area of your space.

To book a consultation, please call 0333 600 1234 or fill out the enquiry form below.