The fixed features of a building can constrain its interior design. Where possible, the fixed features should be kept to a minimum to allow for greater flexibility. For example, try to keep to the minimum of two doors per room and avoid built-in partitions and shelving. Consider, too, features like electrical outlets, plumbing, floor surfacing, and lighting, including all-important natural light from windows. Once the room is created, here is a stepby-step guide on how to lay it out.
1. Make an overall room plan.
- Draw the basic shape of the room, to scale, on graph paper.
- Mark in all the fixed features: windows, doors, sinks, floor surfacing.
2. Mark in the flow.
- Paths must have direct access to all areas and doors.
- Main flow goes from the entry door to all other doors, exits, bathrooms, and storage closets, with one path going into the centre of the room.
3. Locate and circle the Protected Corners.
- This will help you reserve prime space for quiet activities such as reading.
- Farthest from the entry door.
- No doors or flow-paths going through.
4. Divide into Wet and Dry Regions.
- Wet Region: Apply the “3F” rule to determine the wet region: flow, flooring, and fixed plumbing (sinks and toilets).
- Dry Region: Should contain at least one protected corner and can be carpeted.
5. Divide into Zones.
Wet Region:
- Entry Zone
- Messy Zone
Dry Region:
- Active Zone
- Quiet Zone
Don’t forget the Outdoor Zone
6. Decide what activity areas are needed and locate them in the appropriate zone.
| Entry/ Transition Zone | Quiet Zone | Messy Zone | Active Zone | Outdoors | Additional Spaces |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Children’s personal storage | Sleeping / resting | Toileting or changing | Large blocks | Imaginative play | Large group meeting |
| Staff personal storage | Reading | Eating / snack | Dramatic play | Building & construction | Private & semi‑private |
| Parent sign-in & communication | Listening | Water | Housekeeping | Physical activity & movement | Staff work area & telephone |
| Manipulatives | Sand | Doll play | Small motor activity | Staff project storage | |
| Writing | Clay | Miniatures | Horticultural work | ||
| Small blocks | Painting | Puppet play & store front | Scientific and environmental discovery | ||
| Maths | Collages Woodworking | Music & movement | Quiet play | ||
| Cooking Science & nature Pet | Gross motor play |
7. Create a space for each area.
This space includes storage for items used in that area. It communicates possibilities and limitations. For example, a space with little cosy books communicates, “Here is a place for quiet play.” An arch across the entry tells you, “Leave your tricycle outside, you are entering a protected space.”
Sample Activity Areas
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