Blogs
Our Projects: St. Stephen's Duncraig | New Science Building
Office Line is proud to have been part of creating an amazing new science building at St Stephen’s School in Duncraig, Western Australia. The school's newly renovated science building stands as a testament to the power of design and functionality in inspiring students and educators alike. By partnering with St Stephen’s School, we were able to deliver innovative furniture solutions that perfectly complement the building’s modern aesthetic and support the school’s educational goals.
St Stephen’s School embarked on an ambitious project to transform its science facilities, creating a space that would foster creativity, collaboration, and innovation. The new science building, a remarkable 2000m² facility, houses eight dedicated laboratories, each with a unique theme catering to various scientific disciplines. The building also boasts a spacious forum area, ideal for presentations and group work.
Tailored Furniture Solutions
To equip these state-of-the-art laboratories, Office Line provided a combination of EN Stools, science benches and storage solutions. These furniture pieces were carefully selected to meet the specific needs of the science curriculum, ensuring optimal functionality and durability.
- EN Stools: Designed with ergonomics in mind, the EN stools offer students and teachers comfort and support during extended laboratory sessions. Their adjustable height and durable construction make them suitable for various tasks, from conducting experiments to engaging in group discussions.
- Science Benches: The science benches provide a sturdy and versatile workspace for students to conduct experiments and explore scientific concepts. Their design incorporates features such as integrated storage and electrical outlets, enhancing efficiency and organization within the laboratory.
Transforming Learning Experiences
The integration of Office Line furniture has had a profound impact on the learning experience at St Stephen’s School. The EN stools and science benches have facilitated hands-on experimentation, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students.
Furthermore, the furniture’s design promotes collaboration and teamwork, as students are able to work together comfortably and efficiently. The flexibility of the furniture allows for various classroom configurations, enabling teachers to adapt to different teaching styles and learning needs.
By working closely with the school’s staff and the architect leading the project, Office Line was able to understand their specific requirements and deliver furniture solutions that exceeded expectations. This collaborative approach ensured that the furniture seamlessly integrated into the building’s design and supported the school’s educational goals.
We are proud to have played a role in creating such an exceptional learning environment at St Stephen’s School. The new science building is a shining example of how thoughtfully designed furniture can enhance the educational experience.
For more details of this project visit: A new space inspiring minds in St. Stephen's Website.
- Karen Rodriguez
- Tags: 21st century learning spaces Case study classroom furniture learning spaces stem classroom
Our Projects: Perth Modern School
Perth Modern School, a leading educational institution in Australia, sought to transform its common area into a vibrant and welcoming space that fostered collaborative learning and connection among students. Office Line partnered with the school to create a dynamic environment that reflected Aboriginal Australian culture and promoted the well-being of the school community.
Perth Modern School's original common space needed a renovation in order to provide a conducive environment for social interaction and teamwork. The school desired to create a space that inspired students, reflected Australian Aboriginal cultural identity, and provided them with the tools necessary to thrive in a modern educational setting.
Office Line worked closely with the Perth Modern School team to understand their specific needs and goals. Following a careful evaluation of the space and the school community's requirements, Office Line proposed a comprehensive solution that included:
- Modern and Versatile Furniture: Six Pod Ottoman Settings featuring unique designs by Aboriginal artist Rosie Paine from the Learning Together and Learning at the River collections were installed. These flexible and inviting spaces allow students to work in groups, engage in collaborative activities, or simply relax and socialize.
- Variety of Ottomans: Ottomans in various shapes and sizes, including circular, square, rectangular, and hexagonal, were incorporated. Each Ottoman boasts fabrics meticulously chosen by the school team in collaboration with Office Line, ensuring durability and resilience for high-traffic areas.
- Round Tables: Round tables were added to encourage interaction and teamwork. These tables also serve as flexible spaces for activities outside the classroom, depending on the teachers' needs.
The transformation of Perth Modern School's common area has had a significantly positive impact on the school community:
- Vibrant and Welcoming Space: The new design has created a stimulating and attractive environment that invites social interaction and collaborative learning.
- Reflection of Aboriginal Culture: Rosie Paine's designs integrate Aboriginal Australian culture into the space, promoting a sense of identity and connection among students.
- Enhanced Well-being: Comfortable and versatile furniture allows students to relax, socialize, and work together in a pleasant environment.
- Client Satisfaction: The Perth Modern School team is extremely satisfied with the final outcome and the collaboration with Office Line.
The Perth Modern School project is a prime example of how Office Line works closely with educational institutions to create dynamic and functional learning spaces that inspire students and promote their success. The combination of modern furniture, culturally significant designs, and a client-centric approach has resulted in a transformative common area that benefits the entire school community.
- Karen Rodriguez
Our Projects: St. Kieran Catholic Primary School
In today's ever-evolving educational landscape, creating classrooms that cater to diverse learning styles and foster a love of learning is paramount. At Office Line, we believe that thoughtfully designed furniture plays a crucial role in achieving this goal. This case study delves into the design and furnishing of a classroom at St. Kieran Primary School, showcasing how we collaborated with the school to create a space that prioritises flexibility, functionality, and aesthetics.
St. Kieran Primary School approached us with a vision for a classroom that could adapt to various learning activities, encourage collaboration, and spark student creativity. Their existing classroom furniture was not able to adapt to the new learning activities and needed a renovation. We understood the need to create a space that catered to the individual needs of students while also fostering a sense of community and engagement.
Enhancing Flexibility:
- Adaptable Seating: We introduced a range of seating options to accommodate different learning styles and activities. The EN One chair, a perennial favorite, provides ergonomic support for developing backs and can be easily stacked for quick classroom reconfiguration. Additionally, the inclusion of Adjusta Stools with their rotating bases encourages active sitting, promoting increased focus and improved blood flow. This combination allows students to choose between traditional seated learning and a more dynamic approach, fostering ownership of their learning experience.
- Mobile Tables: Understanding the importance of collaborative learning, we incorporated Eduflex Classic Flip Tables. Built with sturdy materials and equipped with wheels, these tables empower students to arrange the classroom layout to suit their needs. Whether working in groups on projects or gathered for discussions, these flexible tables allow for a dynamic learning environment.
Encouraging Functionality:
- Play & Store Units: Gone are the days of bulky, static desks. We included Play & Store units, innovative storage solutions that double as comfortable tables. This ingenious design maximises space utilization, fostering organization and reducing clutter. Students can store their personal belongings within the units while enjoying a convenient workspace for individual tasks.
- Writable Tables: Recognizing the importance of fostering creativity, particularly in the early learning stages, we included a set of writable tables. These tables allow students to express themselves freely through drawing and visual thinking, directly engaging with their ideas and fostering a love for exploration. This hands-on approach promotes early learning development and sparks their imagination.
Creating a Stimulating Aesthetic:
A classroom environment should be visually engaging and contribute to a positive learning experience. We collaborated with St. Kieran Primary School to develop a vibrant color scheme incorporating green, blue, and red. These colors are known to promote positive emotions, spark creativity, and enhance focus. Studies have shown that a well-designed classroom with a stimulating aesthetic can lead to increased student engagement and improved learning outcomes.
The transformed classroom at St. Kieran Primary School exemplifies how thoughtful furniture choices can significantly impact the learning environment. The flexible seating and movable tables empower students to take ownership of their learning space and foster collaboration. The functional storage solutions promote organization and maximize space utilization. Finally, the stimulating aesthetic creates a fun and playful environment that ignites a love for learning.
Our collaboration with St. Kieran Primary School demonstrates our commitment to creating innovative and functional learning spaces. We believe that every child deserves a classroom that inspires them to learn and grow. We are dedicated to working with educators to translate their vision into reality, fostering a love of learning for students of all ages.
Our Projects: The King's College
The Lighthouse Studio at The King’s College was part of their inclusive education upgrade. It was designed to create a safe space for students to be able to retreat and seek assistance without any stigma.
With an understanding of our client's needs, we were able to produce a great result. Our project design lead, Amanda, worked closely with the school team and presented them with layouts and 3D renders so they could visualize how their ideas would look in reality.
We enjoyed transforming this classroom into an educational space that students can feel comfortable and safe in. We know that the right furniture selection and finishes can assist in making a difference in a students' education experience.At Office Line, we strive to only use furniture and materials made here in Australia. We want every student to have the best possible experience while they're at school, and we believe that starts with the spaces they spend their time in every day.
Office Line is proud to be part of inclusive projects like this, where the spaces which we help to create, allow students to find their inner greatness.
If you have a space that needs enhancing, give us a call 1800 333 116 or email us info@officeline.com.au
Our experts are ready to assist you on the journey.
Our Projects: Salvado Catholic College Admin Space
Salvado Catholic College, a longstanding college in Perth, has been a partner of Office Line for a long time. The last furniture project we took was to revitalize their administrative area. The goal was to create a modern, functional workspace that reflected the college's identity.
The primary challenge was finding a solution that seamlessly integrated with existing furniture, maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. Additionally, the furniture and fabrics needed to withstand the high traffic of a school environment.
We brought a solution that embraced modern simplicity with clean lines and a sleek red and grey color palette. The renovation transformed several key areas.
Staff Room Oasis
The new staff room provides a comfortable and inviting space for staff to unwind and recharge. The interior have upholstered chairs in Flynn Flame fabrics from Warwick. This fabric is
easy-to-clean and maintain. In the outside area, the Asti Stools in white combined with the I.AM Tables ensure both relaxation and durability and embracing the natural light coming from the celing and keeping the espace fresh and luminous.
Each office is designed to enhance productivity and well-being. The school chose an innovative Ovation Sit-Stand Desks, promoting flexibility and movement throughout the workday.
This type of desk paired with the Breeze Task Chair are available in each office, offering both ergonomic support and a stylish look that complements the modern aesthetic. Ample storage solutions, including Horizon Express Mobile pedestals, filing cabinets, and cupboards, ensure a clutter-free and organized workspace.
Salvado Catholic College was thrilled with the customer service delivered by Office Line. The renovation resulted in a modern, functional, and comfortable workspace that embodies the college's identity.
Things we loved about the project:
- Modern aesthetic: Clean lines and a red and grey color scheme that create a contemporary feel.
- Improved functionality: Each space is designed to optimise its purpose.
- Enhanced ergonomics: Sit-stand desks and comfortable seating promoting employee well-being.
- Increased storage capacity: Efficient storage solutions that maximise space utilisation.
- Easy maintenance: Durable and easy-to-clean fabrics ensuring a long-lasting and low-maintenance environment.
Office Line offers a comprehensive range of furniture soluctions. With over 20 years of industry experience, Office Line has become a leading provider of educational furniture for schools of all sizes.
Looking to revamp your workspace?
Contact Office Line today and discover how they can help you create a space that's modern, functional, comfortable, and reflects your company's identity.
- Karen Rodriguez
The Neuroarchitecture of Learning: Designing Classrooms that Shape Young Minds
Imagine a classroom that transcends rows of desks and fluorescent lights. Imagine a space that actively fosters a child's development, nurturing their personality, self-esteem, and character. This isn't a utopian fantasy; it's the power of neuroarchitecture in action.
What is Neuroarchitecture?
Neuroarchitecture is the fascinating science that explores the connection between our physical surroundings and their impact on the brain and behavior. In the context of schools, it's about creating learning environments that go beyond academics and contribute to a child's overall well-being.
Here's how neuroarchitecture transforms classrooms into spaces that nurture a child's growth:
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Building Confidence and Self-Expression: Personality thrives when children have opportunities for exploration and self-expression. Neuroarchitecture encourages this by incorporating design elements that spark curiosity and allow for personalization. Imagine designated "maker spaces" with crafting materials and interactive displays for students to tinker and showcase their creativity. Movable furniture allows for flexible classroom layouts, fostering a sense of ownership and control over their learning environment.
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Fostering a Sense of Belonging: A safe and inclusive environment is crucial for building self-esteem. Neuroarchitecture achieves this by utilizing comfortable furniture that caters to children's sizes, like ergonomic chairs and adjustable desks. Incorporating natural light with large windows or skylights creates a welcoming atmosphere, and ensuring all areas are easily accessible for all students, including ramps and designated areas for students with physical limitations, promotes a sense of belonging and respect for diversity.
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Developing Character Through Collaboration: Strong character traits like empathy and teamwork flourish through positive social interactions. Neuroarchitecture facilitates this by creating designated areas for group work, like round tables or beanbag seating configurations that encourage face-to-face interaction. Flexible furniture that allows for reconfiguration fosters a sense of agency and collaboration. Even utilizing calming colors like blue and green can promote cooperation and reduce stress, leading to more productive group learning experiences.
See this project: Peter Carnley Anglican Community School
Furniture plays a crucial role in the neuroarchitectural orchestra of the classroom. Here's how the right furniture choices can contribute to a child's development:
- Ergonomics for All: Ergonomic chairs with adjustable features and desks that can adapt to different heights ensure proper posture and minimize discomfort, allowing students to focus on learning instead of physical strain.
- Variety Breeds Engagement: Mobile furniture like tables and chairs on wheels empowers students to take ownership of their learning space. This flexibility allows for quick reconfiguration for group work, presentations, or quiet study zones, catering to different learning styles and activities.
- Sensory Exploration: Incorporating furniture with different textures, like woven chairs or soft poufs, caters to a variety of learning styles and provides tactile stimulation for students who benefit from fidgeting.
- Storage Solutions: Ample and accessible storage promotes organization and reduces clutter, creating a calmer and more focused learning environment.
See this Project: The Kings College
The Science Behind the Design
So how does neuroarchitecture translate into tangible design choices beyond furniture? Here's a glimpse into the key elements that influence a child's experience:
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Visual: Soft lighting and calming colors create a focused atmosphere ideal for learning, while pops of color can energize and stimulate creative thinking. Consider incorporating biophilic design elements, like incorporating natural light and views of nature, which have been shown to reduce stress and improve cognitive function.
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Tactile: Providing a variety of textures throughout the classroom, from soft mats for reading nooks to textured blocks in a sensory play area, encourages exploration and sensory learning, which is crucial for early development. Different textures can also help students who fidget stay focused by providing a tactile outlet.
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Auditory: Balancing sound is key. Incorporating calming music for specific activities like meditation or yoga can improve focus, while designated quiet zones with sound-absorbing materials ensure students have a space for concentration when needed. Consider technology solutions like white noise machines or noise-canceling headphones for individual student needs.
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Olfactory: Scents play a surprising role in memory and learning. Bringing in plants not only purifies the air but also introduces natural scents like lavender, known for its calming properties, or rosemary, which can enhance memory and focus.
By embracing neuroarchitecture, we can transform classrooms from sterile environments into dynamic spaces that ignite a child's curiosity, nurture their well-being, and unlock their full potential. This isn't just about design; it's about creating a foundation for a brighter future, one young mind at a time. Neuroarchitecture, coupled with innovative teaching methods, can create a symphony of design and education, leading to a more engaging and enriching learning experience for all students. This collaborative approach, where educators and designers work together, can ensure that classrooms not only meet academic needs but also foster a love of learning that extends far beyond the walls of the school.
The Impact on Educators:
Neuroarchitecture isn't just beneficial for students; it can also positively impact educators. By creating a well-designed and stimulating environment, teachers can experience:
- Reduced Stress Levels: Calming colors and natural elements can contribute to a more relaxed atmosphere for educators, leading to improved focus and well-being.
- Enhanced Creativity: Flexible furniture and designated collaboration zones allow for innovative teaching methods and interactive activities, fostering a more dynamic learning environment.
- Improved Efficiency: Ample storage and organizational solutions minimize clutter and wasted time, allowing teachers to focus on what matters most – their students.
See this Project: Emmanuel College Warrnambool
Investing in neuroarchitecture for schools isn't just about aesthetics; it's an investment in the future. By creating classrooms that nurture a child's development on all levels – cognitive, emotional, and social – we are equipping them with the tools they need to thrive in a complex and ever-changing world.Whether you're an educator, school administrator, or simply passionate about creating a better learning environment for future generations, there are steps you can take to incorporate neuroarchitecture principles.
Researching design elements, advocating for renovations, or even starting small with introducing plants and flexible furniture arrangements can all make a difference.Remember, every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow in a space that fosters their unique potential. Let's work together to transform classrooms into spaces where curiosity thrives, confidence flourishes, and a love of learning takes root.
- Karen Rodriguez