Te Manawa School Case Study

After clearly understanding the stakeholder needs and vision, the Play’n’Learn design team translated these needs into design principles. These design principles were unique to Te Manawa ō Pāpāmoa, and informed every element of our decision-making; from the spatial and furniture design to the selection of raw materials.
 

1. Furniture is to be durable and fit-for-purpose.
2. Flexibility is important to allow the spaces to be multi-functional and agile.
3. Avoid fixed furniture settings where possible. If fixed furniture is unavoidable, utilise it by tying the space to a fixed routine such as karakia.
4. A mix of seated desks, standing desks, booths, bean bags, work benches & quiet working booths are to make up the Learning Centres
5. Writable surfaces are great for student creativity
6. Younger pupils, who spend a lot of their time engaged in play-based learning, benefit from a larger number of different learning zones.

​

The end result is multi-functional learning environments that are beautiful, natural, and inspiring spaces where learners are cared for, challenged, and feel a sense of belonging, everyday.