What Matters Most When Selecting Furniture For An Active Learning Environment?

Whether outfitting a single classroom or entire campus, selecting the right desks, chairs, tables and storage is essential. Countless studies show that quality furniture improves student learning and student health.

Before investing, prioritize which features best fit your students, curriculum, space and budget. For many schools, here’s what matters most:

Durability. Furniture must hold up to the movement and stress demands of collaborative learning — and kids in general. Look for adequate structural support (especially in legs) and durably made edges.

Functionality/Flexibility. Select furniture that can adapt to multiple subjects and settings. Desks and chairs should be quickly reconfigurable for group learning, and easily adjusted to students’ size.

Mobility. All furnishings, including storage and shelving, should have caster options. Also be sure desks and chairs are light enough for students to safely move.

Movement. Students sit in classroom chairs close to 80 percent of their time. Look for chair designs that allow students to follow their natural movement instincts, while still providing support and comfort.

Budget. Don’t skimp on quality or shop trends. Select high-quality products from a reputable supplier with excellent service and sustainable practices.

This article originally appeared in the issue of .

About the Author

Michael Risdall is director of marketing at Smith System, a leading educational furniture manufacturer.

Featured

  • KI Wall Demonstrates New Solutions at NeoCon 2025

    KI Wall attended NeoCon 2025 in Chicago, Ill., last month to showcase its new architectural wall systems and collaborations, according to a news release. Its customizable, design-forward wall solutions are intended to support creativity in work, education, and healthcare environments.

  • CSU Pueblo Installs Solar-Powered Charging Benches

    Colorado State University Pueblo (CSU Pueblo) recently announced that it has installed four solar-powered charging benches from Bluebolt Outdoor, LLC, according to a news release.

  • Designing Learning Spaces that Support Student Mental Health and Wellness

    In today’s education landscape, schools are more than just centers for learning; they are integral to the holistic development and well-being of students. The global pandemic underscored the importance of addressing mental health in schools, as productivity dropped, stress levels rose and students faced challenges managing emotions.

  • i-PRO, NovoTrax Partner for New School Emergency Response Solution

    i-PRO Americas, Inc., which manufactures edge computing cameras, recently announced a partnership with NovoTrax, provider of end-to-end life safety and mass notification solutions, to address gaps in emergency response workflows at K–12 schools, according to a news release.