The Importance of Specialised Furniture for Neurodiverse Kids

What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is a term used to describe the natural variation in the human brain. It recognizes that people's brains are wired differently, and that this is not a defect, but rather a normal variation in the human experience. Neurodiversity can include conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and Tourette's syndrome, among others.

Why is Specialised Furniture Important for Neurodiverse Kids?

Neurodiverse kids have different sensory needs and sensitivities than their neurotypical peers. They may be hypersensitive to certain textures or sounds, or they may crave certain types of sensory input. Furniture that is designed with these needs in mind can help them feel more comfortable and supported in their living spaces.

For example, some students may benefit from furniture that provides deep pressure, such as beanbag chairs or weighted blankets. Others may need furniture that is designed to minimize sensory input, such as soundproofing or blackout curtains.

This specialised furniture can also be designed to be more durable and resistant to wear and tear, which is important for kids who may be more active or rough with their furniture. Safety also needs to be especially considered and include features such as rounded edges or non-slip surfaces to protect the students.

The importance of Proprioceptive

Proprioception, our "sixth sense," is the sensory system that helps us understand our body's position and movement in space. It relies on receptors in our muscles, tendons, and joints that send signals to the brain about our body's position, movement, and the amount of force exerted.

In daily life, proprioception enables us to walk, reach for objects, and maintain balance without constantly looking at our limbs. It also helps us adjust the force and coordination of our movements based on the feedback received from the proprioceptive system.

For kids with sensory processing difficulties or neurodiverse conditions, the proprioceptive system may not function optimally, leading to challenges with motor skills, coordination, and body awareness.Incorporating proprioceptive elements in furniture and learning spaces can make a significant difference for the students.

Here are some examples of amazing furniture pieces perfect for developing inclusive learning spaces:   

1. Sensory Chairs:Sensory chairs are designed to provide deep pressure and proprioceptive input, which can help regulate the nervous system and improve focus. These chairs often have a wide base for stability and are filled with foam or other materials that provide firm support.

2. Soundproofing Panels:Soundproofing panels can be placed on walls or ceilings to help reduce noise levels in a room. This can be helpful for neurodiverse kids who may be hypersensitive to sound.

3. Wobble Chairs:Wobble chairs are designed to allow for movement while sitting, which can help improve focus and concentration. These chairs often have a rounded base that allows them to tilt and rock without tipping over.

4. Rocking Chairs:Rocking chairs can provide a calming and rhythmic motion that can help regulate the nervous system. They can be used for relaxation or to improve focus and concentration.

5. Tactile Mats:Tactile mats are mats with different textures and materials for kids to explore and touch. They can be used for sensory play and exploration and can help improve tactile awareness and sensitivity.

Tailored furniture for neurodiverse children can significantly impact their day-to-day experiences. By offering furniture designed specifically for their distinct needs, these kids can enjoy greater comfort and support in their living environments.

Let us help you create the perfect space for them!

For more information about neurodiversity and how you can get involved, visit: https://www.neurodiversityweek.com/ 

Our Projects: Renovation of City of Armadale Workspaces.

The City of Armadale, a local government from Western Australia, needed to renovate several areas to improve the working environment and provide a comfortable and efficient space for their members. After a competitive Tender, Office Line were selected to supply furniture for the renovation of several areas.

Corporate Room

For the Boardroom or corporate room, the team was looking for a sleek and elegant aesthetic that highlighted the black, brick look wall spanning the room.

After an extensive search of suppliers, The Office Line team sourced the Invader High Back Executive Chair. This chair was ideal for the project thanks to its polished aluminium base and arms, with leather padded upholstery, which brings a modern and sophisticated look. Its 6 Year Warranty and high-quality leather make it a great selection for corporate applications 

The large boardroom table is from the Eona Table Family and it complements the chairs perfectly. Its large size made it easy to accommodate 20+ attendees, and the practical, stylish design adds to the professional look and feel of the boardroom, and minimises obstructions to user’s legs. 

The EONA table is a unique piece of furniture that stands out for its use of sustainable materials. The acronym EONA stands for: Everything Old, New Again. This table is made from post-consumer recycled materials, which makes it an eco-friendly option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint.

The legs and leg support inserts are made from 100% recycled aluminium, which further adds to the sustainability factor of the table. The outer leg supports, rails, and adjustable glides are all made from recycled steel, which is strong and sturdy, and can withstand wear and tear. By choosing EONA, the city of Armadale made a positive impact on the environment while also enjoying a functional and stylish space. 

           

Staff Office Space

The priority for the office space was employee’s wellness. This is why we chose the Eko Mesh Chairs as the main element of the room. Thanks to its breathable mesh back with lumbar support and dual density posture zone seat, this chair is not only comfortable but also takes care of your staff. When choosing this chair, you can opt to include arms, and the base is available as black nylon or polished aluminium. The upholstery is completed by local craftsmen and is available in any fabric, including our striking indigenous fabric patterns. These features allow for optimal comfort and customization to each employee's needs. 

Investing in ergonomic chairs for the workplace can have numerous benefits for all users. These chairs are designed to provide proper support to the body and improve posture, leading to less fatigue and a lower risk of workplace injuries. When staff can sit comfortably for extended periods of time, they are able to maintain focus and remain productive throughout the workday. The reduction in physical discomfort and strain can also lead to fewer sick days and a more positive work environment overall. By prioritizing the health and comfort of employees with ergonomic chairs, employers can create a more efficient and successful workplace. 

Meeting Room

The Meeting Rooms were designed to foster collaboration, which is an essential aspect of the City of Armadale's daily work. The renovation project included several meeting rooms distributed throughout the whole workspace area. To create a modern and stylish area, the Monaco Chair with a sled base was chosen in a custom fabric, paired with the Horizon Pedestal Table with a white round top. This colour combination not only kept to the aesthetic of the project but also created an inviting and light atmosphere, maintaining a clean, neat aesthetic.  

The City of Armadale's renovation project transformed their workspaces into comfortable and efficient areas that prioritize employee wellness and sustainability. The renovation project provided a functional and stylish space for their members, with the added benefit of eco-friendliness and sustainability. The project was a success, and the City of Armadale now has a modern and welcoming workspace for their stakeholders to enjoy for many years.  

Create an Aesthetic and Functional Office

It's important to create an environment that is not only functional, but also visually appealing for your employees and clients. A well-designed office space can have a positive impact on productivity and help maintain a professional image for your business. In this blog post, we will focus on some key elements of office design to help you create a good aesthetic for your office.

1. Choose functional and stylish furniture.

Office furniture should be both functional and stylish. Choose high-quality pieces that are designed to last and made from materials that are easy to clean and maintain. Comfortable and ergonomic chairs and desks are essential for productivity and employee satisfaction.

2.  Use Glass boards for a modern touch.

If you enjoy doing brainstorming, taking notes of important appointments and project planning, Glassboards can be the perfect solution for your office. They are not only practical but also add a sleek and professional touch to your workspace.

Thanks to their variety of sizes and colours, glassboards can become a decorative element in your office while improves your productivity.

3.  Keep your workspace clean and clutter-free

A cluttered workspace is not only unattractive but can also negatively impact productivity and motivation. Encourage employees to keep their workspaces clean and organized. Use storage solutions like cabinets and shelves to keep files, papers, and other items out of sight.

4.  Use lighting to enhance the ambiance.

Lighting is a crucial element of office decor. Use a combination of natural light and artificial lighting to create the perfect balance of light and shadow. Warm lighting can create a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, while bright lighting can improve visibility and productivity.

Creating an aesthetically pleasing and functional office can have a significant positive impact on your business. By focusing on key elements of office design such as furniture, organization, and lighting, you can create an environment that not only looks great but also enhances productivity and employee satisfaction. A well-designed office can also help maintain a professional image for your business and make a positive impression on clients and visitors.

5 ways to maximize space in a school library

School libraries play a vital role in creating a supportive learning environment for students. They offer a space where students can access resources and engage in meaningful learning experiences.

A well-designed library not only provides a comfortable and inclusive atmosphere but also helps to foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking, through the use of innovative and practical furniture solutions. These solutions can help to increase efficiency, reduce stress, and create a dynamic and organized learning environment.

Libraries must be designed with ergonomic furniture, ample lighting, and a comfortable temperature to create an environment conducive to learning and research. Moreover, a library designed to meet the needs of students with disabilities, such as adjustable height tables and comfortable seating, can promote inclusiveness and accessibility.

Maximising space utilisation in a school library can be challenging, but with the right furniture, it's easier than you think. Here are five ways to utilise the furniture to its full potential and create a functional, stylish, and organised library environment that promotes learning and creativity.

1. Mobile Bookcases

Bookcases are a staple in every library, but traditional ones can take up a lot of floor space and limit the number of books that can be stored. Using furniture pieces with castors allows you to create different learning spaces by relocating the units depending on the activities you are working on.

Our recommendations: 

       

2. Comfortable Lounges with Built-in Storage

Adding comfortable lounges to your library creates a cosy reading nook and extra seating for students. Look for lounges with built-in storage to keep books, magazines, and other materials organised, saving floor space and making the library look tidy.

Our Recommendation:

3. Space-Saving Storage Solutions

Instead of cluttering your library with piles of books, consider incorporating storage solutions that make the most of your floor space. From rolling carts to wall-mounted shelving, there are plenty of options to choose from that are both practical and stylish.

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4. Multi-Purpose Furniture

Maximise your library's functionality by choosing pieces that serve multiple purposes. Consider adaptable tables and lounges that integrate with other furniture.

Our Recommendation:

5. Collaborative Furniture

Encourage group work and collaboration by incorporating furniture that encourages interaction and teamwork. This type of furniture creates a welcoming atmosphere and fosters creativity and collaboration among students. From round tables to comfortable couches, there are many options to choose from that promote a sense of community in your library.

Our Recommendation:

       

A library that has a proper layout and organisation can increase efficiency and reduce stress for students and staff alike. In short, investing in a well-designed library is not just about improving the appearance of the learning space; it's about creating a functional and supportive environment that promotes collaboration, creativity, and wellness.

The right furniture solution can transform your school library into a dynamic, organised, and functional space that promotes learning and creativity. Invest in innovative library furniture today to optimise space utilisation, increase functionality, and enhance the overall aesthetic of your library.

Our Projects: Peter Carnley Anglican Community School

Peter Carnley Anglican Community School's latest addition to their already impressive facilities, is ‘The Hub’, an Innovative and flexible learning centre. This space includes a senior reading lounge, collaborative spaces for E-learning, meeting/multi-purpose rooms, and a junior library area. The Office Line team worked hard to design and furnish a magnificent space which promotes creativity and collaboration, and exceed the school’s needs and expectations. 

COLOURS AND FABRICS

Finishes are a very important part of our projects. In this case our interior design team selected Laminex’s Seasoned Oak, a soft warm oak with subtle grain, and Warwick Fabric’s Gravity range in Pomegranate, Navy and Forest shades. The Gravity fabric was chosen for its heavy commercial properties, calm muted tones, and subtle tactile herringbone texture. These selections help the educational furniture support flexible learning and create a comfortable and inviting space for students to learn, read and collaborate. 

SENIOR READING LOUNGE

We designed a comfortable, open space that takes advantage of natural light coming in from the 12m span of windows. The curved Spectator Bookcase Collection with round I.AM tables and Eduflex Ottomans creates a perfect area for students to sit and work together, with ample shelving and relaxed bench seating below the windowsill. Ponder Lounges and joiner ottomans are also used as casual seating throughout the learning space, with a low 850h back and many configuration options to suit different group sizes. 

Design Proposal:

       

       

MAIN COLLABORATIVE SPACE

This 21st century learning space was designed to be flexible and encourage students to share ideas and engage in E-learning activities. It’s thrilling to see students fill this area with colours and vibrancy as they interact freely. The large U-Shaped Spectator Bench Setting seats up to 32 students and the wrap around benching combined with Eduflex Laptop Tables in the centre enable the use of devices, and foster the open, collaborative nature of this learning space. 

Design Proposal:

Final Results:

       

THE JUNIOR FICTION

This area is benchmarked by a Office Line’s Swell Collection, that was designed and manufactured specifically for the project. It offers 3 tiers of seating with 3 different heights: 300h, 450h and 600h for students to sit, read and learn in their own way. This space also has clusters of Spectator Bookcase Lounges in 90-degree segments around circular I.AM tables that provide an attractive surface for all reading, learning and creative activities of the younger students. 

Design Proposal:

Final Results:

       

       

Office Line’s portion of this fantastic project was successfully completed on time and within budget, fully meeting our clients expectation. Our team is delighted with the final outcome and would like to thank the school management for their trust and support throughout the process. Their confidence in the team's expertise in design and product selection was instrumental in the success of the project, and we were proud to be able to support their expectation along the journey with our market leading communication and personal support.

At Office Line we genuinely care about our clients!  

Our Projects: Salvado Catholic College

Salvado Catholic College have been a loyal customer of Office Line’s for many years. We are proud of the work we have done on learning area designs and layouts, and the manufacture of the educational furniture within the school. We have witnessed the growth of Salvado Catholic College from it’s opening in 2016 until now and feel privileged to be part of their journey.