Blogs — Interior design

Designing Sensory-Friendly Classrooms

In today’s classrooms, education is evolving to accommodate diverse learning needs. However, many students—especially those who are neurodivergent—face daily challenges due to classroom environments that are not designed with sensory needs in mind. Sensory overload can significantly impact learning, focus, and emotional well-being. So, how can schools create sensory-friendly spaces that support all students? Let’s explore.

Understanding Sensory Overload in the Classroom

Sensory overload occurs when an individual receives more sensory input than their brain can process effectively. Students with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and sensory processing differences may struggle to focus in traditional learning environments due to excessive noise, bright lights, and rigid seating arrangements. These environmental factors can lead to anxiety, stress, and reduced academic performance.

How to Design a Sensory-Friendly Classroom

Creating an inclusive classroom doesn’t require a complete redesign—it starts with small, evidence-based adjustments. Schools implementing flexible design elements report higher engagement, reduced anxiety, and improved student well-being. Here’s how:

1. Introduce Flexible Seating

Traditional desks and chairs can be restrictive, preventing students from moving in ways that help them self-regulate. Consider incorporating:

• Wobble stools and standing desks for movement-friendly seating

• Bean bags and cushioned chairs for comfort and sensory regulation

• Adjustable desks to accommodate different heights and seating preferences

2. Reduce Auditory Distractions

Loud, echoing spaces can be overwhelming for neurodivergent students. To create a calmer learning environment:

• Use acoustic panels and soft furnishings to absorb sound

• Arrange quiet zones where students can take sensory breaks

• Provide noise-cancelling headphones for students who need them

3. Optimise Lighting for Comfort

Fluorescent lighting can be too harsh for students with sensory sensitivities. Instead, try:

• Natural light whenever possible

• Dimmable LED lights to allow for adjustments based on student needs

• Warm, soft lighting to create a more calming atmosphere

4. Create Structured & Flexible Spaces

A balance between structure and flexibility helps students feel safe while allowing for adaptability:

• Designate quiet areas for individual work or relaxation

• Implement modular classroom layouts that allow for different learning styles

• Use visual schedules and clear labelling to provide predictability

At Office Line, we specialize in designing ergonomic, adaptable, and inclusive learning spaces that support all students. By making thoughtful changes to classroom design, schools can create an environment where neurodivergent students feel comfortable, confident, and ready to learn.

Interested in learning more? Contact us today to explore sensory-friendly furniture solutions for your school.

Our Projects: Creative Arts and Design Centre at St. Mary’s Anglican Girls' School

At Office Line, we are proud to have contributed to the new Creative Arts and Design Centre at St. Mary’s Anglican Girls' School, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to nurturing the creative potential of senior students. This three-storey building stands as a testament to St. Mary’s commitment to the arts, providing an innovative and inspiring environment where students can explore and develop their artistic talents.

The Creative Arts and Design Centre comprises specialised areas, including collaborative spaces, galleries, studios, and a modern media centre. Here, students are encouraged to express themselves and work together across disciplines such as visual arts, ceramics, design, 3D construction, fashion, textiles, and wearable art. Each area has been designed to facilitate hands-on learning and creative collaboration.

To ensure that each space met St. Mary’s educational needs, we provided functional, durable, and adaptable furniture solutions. Aligned with the school’s commitment to sustainability, St. Mary’s decided to repurpose and enhance some existing furniture pieces. Office Line integrated these products seamlessly into the final design, supporting an approach that respects the environment.

Some of the selected products include:

• EN Gas Lift Chairs: Ergonomically designed and crafted with high-quality materials, these black-based chairs are ideal for extended work sessions, offering students both comfort and versatility.
• Height-Adjustable Tables: Fitted with a preset controller and available in white or oak finishes, these tables allow students and teachers to adjust their workspaces as needed, promoting both ergonomics and movement.
• Teacher's Pod: Providing a mobile storage solution and teaching hub in one
• Round Eduflex Ottomans and Floor Cushions with Rosie Paine Aboriginal Prints. 

This new centre will not only host rotating exhibitions of students’ work but will also serve as a hub of inspiration and creativity for the entire St. Mary’s community. Galleries and studios allow students to showcase their artwork, while interactions with guest artists enrich their experiences and offer professional insights.

The sustainable approach of repurposing existing furniture highlights our shared commitment to the environment and social responsibility. This decision not only helps reduce environmental impact but also adds a meaningful dimension to the educational experience, demonstrating to students the importance of sustainable practices.

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. 

Newman College Case Study

Newman College embraces creativity and innovation in their learning spaces and knows how important these environments are to the education, wellbeing and interactions of their students. That is why we, at Office Line, felt privileged to be able to support them in refurbishing their main learning Hub.

The St John Henry Newman Learning Hub is a key facility at Newman College, featuring a main open plan learning space, with breakout rooms, meeting areas and lecture theatre branching off. The three-story building provides modern collaboration spaces, and state of the art learning resources for students to work together and individually.

Our Projects: St. George's Anglican Grammar School

Emmanuel College - McAuley Library

Emmanuel College Warrnambool is a dynamic Catholic learning Community that is growing its reputation as an education leader, and we are proud to have worked with them over a number of years.

The McAuley Library is an exciting and welcoming space with many different collaborative and focus areas, for both staff and students. The refurbished building includes modern spaces for classes, a relaxed area for students wishing to study or have a game of chess, and functional spaces for small group work.