Repurposing a former entry foyer and cloakroom between two classrooms, the client wanted an effective use of space that would facilitate individual or small groups in quiet learning, without cutting them off from the remainder of the classroom. Limited budget and timeframe were two of the most significant challenges faced by Bloom and Baillie, encouraging them to search for affordable, durable, multi-purpose materials that could be installed quickly and were aesthetically pleasing — to teachers and to students.

Having seen and experienced the GIB ReadyLock system at DesignEx in 2014, Bloom and Baillie felt this was the perfect system to incorporate the range of wall finishes they wanted to include in the space, and to complete construction effectively in the short time frame available. In conjunction with plasterboard and acoustic pinboard material, a durable colourful and writeable surface was important. Formica AR+ Solid Colours in Clementine from Laminex New Zealand was chosen given its versatility and compatibility with the GIB ReadyLock system, its vibrant hue providing a warm and inviting learning environment for the children.

Incorporating yet another function and learning experience, Formica Magnetic Whiteboard was used to provide not only writeable wall surfaces, but also magnetic surfaces. The use of such surfaces enables children to interact with their learning environment, as well as being immensely versatile and allowing flexible lesson planning.

The vibrant impact of the Formica AR+ Solid Colours in Clementine was the designers' favourite element of the project. Used around the window frames the writeable surface of the product means it is functional as well as fun and provides a pop of colour from wherever you look.

Partial walls and window cut-outs allow the space to be used for independent work, without segregating children from their peers, meaning that a single child could complete quiet work without disturbance, while similarly several children could complete a small group exercise without disturbing students in the main section of the classroom. The functionality of the space has been applauded by the client, and it’s pretty popular with the kids too.